There is nothing like the summer breeze in an open-air cinema, don't you think? Summer flies away for me at least, but they say that time flies when you're having fun, so I am embracing this feeling. Summer means outdoor cinema, and this is my inspiration for this new notebook section.
So, this is Stars, Stories & Feelings.
Despite the fact that the first movie I saw in an outdoor cinema this year was In The Mood for Love by Wong Kar-Wai, I really wanted to talk about re-watching Aftersun by Charlotte Wells. By the way, I saw both of the at VOX in Exarcheia, Athens, one of the oldest open-air cinemas in Athens, Greece (and one of my favorites).
Photo by Athina Vgagke
Re-watching Aftersun hits differently.
This was the forth time I saw this - in my opinion - masterpiece by Charlotte Wells, however feelings are so much different in the summer.
At times I really feel that Aftersun is one of my comfort films to watch, besides all its inevitable sadness. It's the story that is so humanish, all the relationship's ups and downs of Sophie & Calum, that it feels so close to me. It is really weird getting attached to films that are totally unrelatable to your personality, or that don't align with your own experiences or life events.
I can't tell if it's the perfect script, the lovely chemistry of Frankie Corio & Paul Mescal, the fact that we were all kids once and all we deeply want is to feel loved and accepted, especially by our parents. Growing up we often forget that we need to feel loved and accepted throughout our lifetime. We get carried away by all life's difficulties that we don't pay attention to all the things that matter.
Aftersun (2022) dir. Charlotte Wells - Paul Mescal, Frankie Corio
When I watch a film, most of the times I connect with one character. It rarely happens to me to connect and really understand both perspectives. I don't know if I'll ever get over this film, or if I'll ever forget it. Some films grow roots inside your soul that even your most favorite movie can't be compared.
Thankfully, I have room for film to root in my mind and heart. I hope you have to.
If you haven't already, go watch Aftersun.
Whenever this August finds you, keep on smiling.
