Review published 15th February 2026

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Opening Memories: A Glimpse into the Past

The film’s opening shows someone watching old footage from a MiniDV cassette tape. Based on the various clips shown and the musical score, it is clear that viewers are about to get a glimpse of a different time, and perhaps the person watching the footage is about to take a trip down memory lane.

Sophie and Calum: A Holiday That Becomes Unforgettable

Sophie, played by Frankie Corio, is a young girl who goes on holiday with her father, Calum, portrayed by Paul Mescal. The two enjoy each other’s company, discussing everything from Sophie’s life at home with her mother to lighthearted topics that spark laughter. They also share heartfelt moments, highlighting the closeness of their relationship. We see Calum teaching Sophie how to defend herself if ever in danger, while also encouraging her to make new friends with other children at the hotel. However, what begins as a fun and relaxing holiday gradually builds toward a surprising and significant conclusion.

A Slow-Burning Drama with an Emotional Payoff

Aftersun is best described as a slow-burning drama. The payoff is substantial, with a conclusion that feels rewarding, touching, and deeply emotional. Interestingly, on my first viewing, I found the film started strongly but then slowed more than I preferred. At times, I didn’t feel fully invested or engaged. However, the finale left me completely moved, long after the credits had rolled.

Heartfelt Performances and Immersive Visuals

The performances in Aftersun are truly lovely. The film presents a genuine father-daughter relationship, and it’s nearly impossible not to find aspects of it relatable and touching, thanks to the heartfelt performances of Paul Mescal and Frankie Corio. Visually, the film is equally impressive, often making viewers feel like a fly on the wall, experiencing the entire holiday alongside the leads.

Themes of Memory, Family, and Relatability

The themes and messages in Aftersun are strong, even if they are occasionally mysterious. Still, enough clues are provided throughout the film that viewers can walk away feeling confident in their understanding of the story. The importance of making memories and appreciating a parent or guardian’s presence is just one of the lessons I took from the film. Individual experiences and takeaways may vary, but there is something here that feels relatable, no matter your personal journey.

A Profound and Unforgettable Journey

Overall, on my first viewing, I found Aftersun both enjoyable and deliberately slow-paced. The film profoundly surprised me and left a lasting impact with its exploration of a father-daughter relationship and its unexpected, powerful finale. That unforgettable ending stayed with me long after the credits rolled. The performances are compelling, touching, believable, and deeply dramatic. The less viewers know about Aftersun’s plot and story beforehand, the more impactful and rewarding the experience will be.

Aftersun (2022) is Now Available on Mubi!

About the Reviewer

Peter Walkden

Film writer and curator with a deep passion for cinema, genre filmmaking, and physical media. Exploring new releases, cult favourites, and overlooked films, with a strong focus on atmosphere, storytelling, and the theatrical experience.

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