Berlin Film Festival Debuts Jan-Ole Gerster's 'Islands,' a Subtropical Noir Thriller

Sam Riley and Stacy Martin star in a tense psychological drama set in the Canary Islands, exploring themes of alienation and self-reckoning.

The film follows Tom, a disillusioned tennis coach played by Sam Riley, whose life is upended by the arrival of a troubled British family at a luxury resort in Fuerteventura.
Stacy Martin delivers a nuanced performance as Anne, a mysterious guest whose interactions with Tom suggest a shared past and hidden motives.
Director Jan-Ole Gerster blends neo-noir elements with psychological drama, creating a suspenseful atmosphere heightened by Dascha Dauenhauer’s dissonant score and striking cinematography.
The story revolves around the disappearance of Anne’s husband, Dave, and the ensuing police investigation, which casts suspicion on both Anne and Tom.
Critics praise the performances, particularly Riley’s portrayal of Tom’s existential malaise, though some feel the film’s pacing could benefit from a tighter edit.