A Behind-the-Scenes Look at the Oscar-Nominated Film Aftersun
4 February 2023
While Paul Mescal’s Oscar nomination has brought this film to global attention, it was already building the kind of word-of-mouth and critical acclaim that can turn a project into a classic. Made by first-time director Charlotte Wells, Aftersun is a deeply moving slice of life that transitions from the ordinary to the truly extraordinary, largely due to the outstanding performances from Mescal and newcomer Frankie Corio, who portrays his pre-teen daughter, Sophie.
Wells, who crafted the screenplay based on her own childhood memories, set the film in the 1990s, embarking on a package holiday to Turkey, a nostalgic experience she shared with her lead actors. The film is rich in period details, supported by a soundtrack that carefully mixes familiar tunes with lesser-known melodies, contributing to a convincing depiction of the era while telling a timeless story. Her goal, Wells explained, was to evoke the unique atmosphere of a first trip abroad: “I never forgot the feeling of heat as soon as I got off the plane; it was the beginning of an adventure, though it felt like time was already slipping away.”
At the heart of Aftersun lies the relationship between the troubled yet devoted Calum, who is separated from Sophie’s mother, and his daughter. To develop this connection, the two actors spent a fortnight in Turkey, staying in a hotel reminiscent of the one featured in the film. As Corio shared, this was an enjoyable experience: “We swam in the sea, played pool, and indulged in ice cream. I had no formal training other than learning to play pool for some scenes, which Paul helped me with.” Fortunately, Mescal remained mostly unrecognized during this time, allowing for a relaxing getaway.
The filming timeline coincided with the easing of pandemic restrictions in May 2021, bringing a sense of freedom to the production. “They opened for us on the day we arrived,” producer Adele Romanski noted. The team was able to experience the quiet beauty of the location before the influx of tourists later that summer.
Ölüdeniz: The Chief Location
Ölüdeniz, a picturesque resort town located on Turkey’s southwestern coast, serves as the primary backdrop for Aftersun. In the 1990s, this town was already a favored destination for British holidaymakers, characterized by its classic fishing village charm transformed by tourism. The town is renowned for paragliders launching from Babadag Mountain, creating a stunning visual landscape seen throughout the film.
For the hotel scenes, the production team utilized two different locations. The majority of filming occurred at the Telmessos Neva Hotel in the Hisaronu region, known for its vibrant atmosphere and amenities, including a pool table where Sophie forms friendships with other holidaymakers.
Additional scenes were shot at Turk Hotel, a smaller establishment closer to the sea, where intimate moments between Calum and Sophie unfold and culminate in an unforgettable closing dance scene, celebrated with the song “Under Pressure.”
Capturing the Atmosphere of the 90s
Production designer Billur Turan played a vital role in resurrecting the nostalgic elements of the 1990s for the film. The team meticulously sourced period items and decor to create an authentic setting, even expanding beyond the hotel confines to capture the town’s essence.
Wells captured impromptu scenes throughout Ölüdeniz, allowing for genuine interactions between the characters. The local beach played a crucial role in depicting the heartfelt moments that define Calum and Sophie’s relationship, contributing to the film’s emotional depth.
Exploration of Sultaniye and Kaunos
As they prepare to return home, Calum and Sophie embark on a memorable excursion to a mud bath in Sultaniye, an area famous for its thermal spa and historical significance. This location not only offers a scenic backdrop but also enriches the narrative with references to Cleopatra.
The duo’s journey also takes them to the ancient amphitheater at Kaunos, showcasing the contrast between the bustling holiday atmosphere and timeless heritage. This powerful blend of personal moments amidst historical grandeur echoes the central themes of family and memory in Aftersun.
Overall, Aftersun beautifully captures the essence of a package holiday experience while delving into deeper familial themes, making it a must-watch film of the year.
