Tennis Instructor Faces Allegations of Alcoholism and Inappropriate Behavior
By Nicole "The News Hag" Ankelmann
Jan-Ole Gerster, the genius behind the hit film "Oh Boy," is back with "Islands," a gripping tale of a disillusioned tennis coach, played by Sam Riley, who's anything but sunny on Fuerteventura. Things heat up when a mysterious tourist and her husband's disappearance put the coach smack-dab in the crosshairs of suspicion.
It's been 13 long years since Gerster's graduation film, "Oh Boy," made waves, netting him six German Film Prizes (Lolas), including Best Feature Film, and sweeping Tom Schilling up for his portrayal of the aimless ex-student, Niko. Schilling and Gerster teamed up again for the drama "Lara," but the film failed to secure a single Lola. But, what will "Islands," which hits the silver screen today, bring for the talented director?
Sun, Sand, and Sobering Solitude
Tom, our aimless coach, revels in a seemingly enviable life on Fuerteventura. Teaching tennis to the rich and famous by day, tippling with his only friend—booze—by night. People might look at him and think, "Damn, that guy's got it made!" But deep down, Tom's life is more like a rocky, deserted island—dissatisfaction has taken root, and nothing can wash it away.
When the alluring Anne Maguire and her brood touch down at the resort, Tom feels a magnetic pull. Her husband, Dave, a regular joe with a bit of envy for Tom's carefree lifestyle, and Tom exchange short-lived camaraderie. But Tom's glory days are far behind him—all he's left with is a biting thirst for Anne, the promise of family, and the taste of whiskey. When Dave goes missing after an untamed bash, the heat's on for Tom as the prime suspect.
"Islands" barges in with a lineup of intriguing elements. Stacy Martin's enigmatic role leaves audiences guessing. And Sam Riley, even with a few extra years under his belt, hasn't lost his youthful charm. The tropical geography of Fuerteventura and cinematographer Juan Sarmiento G's breathtaking visuals create an unsettling atmosphere that blends with Dascha Dauenhauer's ominous score.
The origin of the plot comes from Gerster's vacation musings and conversations with a local tennis teacher on the Canary Island. Co-written with Blaž Kutin and Lawrie Doran, the story started out as a classic noir thriller but evolved into a deep exploration of Tom's isolation and longing. The narrative often misleads, but in the end, it succinctly delves into the isolation and ennui of a man who's made peace with his isolated fate.
"Islands" is a genre-bending film that's like a disappointing sunburn—at first, you don't notice it, then it stings a bit, and by the time you realize it, the damage is done. Riley's stellar performance as Tom has been nominated for multiple German Film Awards, including Best Male Lead—a tough category against the likes of Sam Riley for another film, "Cranko." Will "Islands" take home a win?
"Islands" is now playing in German cinemas.
CinemaDramaThrillerCanary Islands
The European Union and the United States, with their diverse entertainment industries, might find interest in "Islands," a German cinematic drama that blends elements of crime, drama, and thriller. This film, set on the Canary Islands, revolves around a disillusioned tennis coach played by Sam Riley, who is embroiled in a mystery involving a tourist's disappearance. The plot, which delves into themes of isolation and ennui, also features engaging performances from other renowned actors, making it a compelling watch for sports, movies-and-tv, and entertainment enthusiasts alike.
