In the Soft Light of ‘Aftersun’: An Exploration of Memory and Feeling
By Natalie McCarty
Still from Aftersun
"I'll just record it in my little mind camera." It’s the line that immediately comes to mind whenever someone mentions Aftersun, leaving a tear streak on my face and a pang of remembrance. This line resonates deeply, capturing the film’s essence as a tender, intimate exploration of memory.
Still from Aftersun
Watching Aftersun feels like stepping into a personal memory—one that is profoundly familiar and intimate. It’s a film that is deeply beautiful, sentimental, and touching, with a nuance that gently unravels with each scene. I truly feel as though there is no other film like it.
The cinematography in Aftersun is nothing short of stunning. Each frame is crafted with such care that it feels like a visual poem, capturing the softness and fragility of fleeting yet profound moments. The color grading evokes a sense of a childhood memory lost in time, stirred later in adulthood with new shapes and hues. Paul Mescal’s performance, especially, is extraordinarily moving. His Oscar nomination was well-deserved (and I still feel a profound sadness for his loss of the award). His portrayal adds a layer of authenticity and emotional depth that anchors the film’s delicate narrative—one of the most incredible performances I’ve ever seen.
Still from Aftersun
Despite its acclaim, Charlotte Wells’ perfect debut film's invitation for Best Picture might have been overlooked, but I’ll continue to argue that it is one of the greatest masterpieces in cinematic history. Aftersun occupies a space that’s difficult to articulate but impossible to ignore. Since my first viewing, I’ve been unable to shake its impact. I’ve been trying to write this review since my third rewatch in December, yet I feel as though I can never perfectly capture my feelings. The film evokes an overwhelming sense of nostalgia—a painful reminder, yet tender and special.
Still from Aftersun
The film’s beauty and pain only grow more intense with each subsequent watch, revealing deeper layers of emotion and resonance. "I think it’s nice that we share the same sky." Another line that encapsulates the film’s exploration of shared experiences and connections, reminding us of the universal nature of memory and the emotional ties that bind us. In its quiet, understated way, Aftersun invites us to reflect on the ephemeral moments that define our lives, making it both deeply personal and universally relatable.
Like a memory captured on screen, Aftersun offers a delicate and profound reflection of life’s simpler moments. In its subtlety and emotional depth, it provides a space for introspection and connection, leaving an unforgettable mark on those who experience its gentle yet powerful storytelling.
Still from Aftersun
