Paul Mescal and Frankie Coria tell the story of Calumn and Sophie on a Father Daughter holiday in Aftersun, written and directed by Charlotte Wells. We were lucky to attend a preview this week at The Curzon in partnership with Gucci.
There’s something rather theatrical about Aftersun which at times feels like watching a wonderful two hander. What’s even more impressive is that this is Frankie Coria’s acting debut. The film manages to communicate the beauty, fun and complexities of a single parent relationship. But also just that of a man who happens to be a father, and a nine year old girl who is simply growing up.
During the Q&A the understated Wells shared her story of first drafts and redrafts, sometimes reluctantly. Filmmakers often don’t want to admit there were any other options. However Wells has an honesty that makes her themes even more engaging, allowing the conversation to continue long after the credits have rolled.
As we get older we come to understand our parents as their own individuals, yet Aftersun manages to highlight how the ‘battle’ of the younger single parent life is often viewed under such a different gaze. Perhaps a less sympathetic one? The film is shot on 35mm with beautiful cinematography by Gregory Oke, alongside a brilliant 90s put together by Lucy Bright . It’s often outside of the dialogue that Wells communicates the combination of guilt, love and despair so well.
Paul Mescal is one of the best actors of his generation and this role further cements that. And we loved seeing Frankie on stage soaking it all in dressed in her blue Gucci suit – the world, now her Oyster.
Be sure to go and see this beautifully shot and told piece of cinematic and narrative art when it’s out.
Release date Friday 18th November 2022.
Thanks to Finch + Partners for the invitation.