Jan-Ole Gerster’s latest film, Islands, attempts to weave an intoxicating mix of psychological drama and noir thriller, all set against the backdrop of a luxury hotel in the Canary Islands. Starring Sam Riley as Tom, a washed-out Brit tennis coach, and Stacy Martin as Anne, a mysteriously familiar guest, the film starts strong with an intriguing setup but loses its grip in a stretched-out final act.

At first, Islands seems to channel the essence of classic noir, reminiscent of Double Indemnity or The Postman Always Rings Twice. Tom, who spends his days lazily coaching and his nights drowning in alcohol, finds his life disrupted when Anne and her wealthy yet insufferable husband Dave (Jack Farthing) arrive at the resort. When Dave goes missing after a night of reckless drinking, the film teeters between a suspenseful mystery and a slow-burning psychological study.

A Tantalizing Setup That Fizzles Out

Gerster masterfully builds tension in the first half. Tom’s encounters with Anne feel like deliberate echoes of classic noir femme fatales. The setting—a picturesque but isolating Canary Islands retreat—adds a dreamlike quality that enhances the film’s unease. The visuals by cinematographer Juan Sarmiento G. paint a stark contrast between the paradise-like surroundings and Tom’s internal turmoil. The pounding waves of the Atlantic and the tremors from a nearby volcano serve as subtle warnings of impending chaos.

As the mystery deepens, Islands flirts with the idea that Tom may become entangled in something far bigger than he anticipates. When detective Mazo (Ramiro Blas) starts investigating, inconsistencies in Anne’s story emerge. Yet, instead of tightening the suspense, the film gradually shifts into a more introspective mood. Gerster’s pacing slows down, dragging the audience through a psychological reckoning that feels unnecessarily prolonged.

A Solid Cast Elevates the Experience

Sam Riley delivers a nuanced performance, embodying Tom’s mix of regret, longing, and self-destruction. With his slightly disheveled charm, Riley captures the essence of a man haunted by his past, yet unwilling to change. Stacy Martin’s Anne is enigmatic—her actions subtly hint at hidden motives, making her a compelling yet frustrating character to decipher.

Jack Farthing, as the insufferable Dave, effectively sets up the film’s inciting mystery. His over-the-top arrogance makes it almost too easy to accept his disappearance. The supporting cast, including Bruna Cusí and Pep Ambròs, add layers to the narrative, though some of their subplots feel underutilized.

A Thriller That Needed a Tighter Edit

Despite a strong start and captivating performances, Islands overstays its welcome. The film’s second half meanders, losing the sharp tension it once had. While the final twist attempts to leave an impact, the over-foreshadowing diminishes its effectiveness. If Gerster had trimmed about 20 minutes from the runtime, the film could have delivered a more potent and gripping conclusion.

Final Verdict

Islands is an atmospheric and well-acted thriller that struggles with pacing. While the film’s sun-drenched setting and intriguing character dynamics draw you in, its inability to sustain tension through the closing stretch leaves it feeling bloated. Fans of slow-burn noir might appreciate its psychological depth, but those seeking a tightly wound mystery may find themselves disappointed.