Any child of separation that is no stranger to empty promises could vouch for the love-hate relationship emerging to either or both of the parent that fluctuates throughout the years. Charlotte Wells made this film to hold a mirror for many of us who struggle in that situation, that have been wishing for an alternate life path, have been hoping for a miracle, and have been having a hard time looking back. But this is not only about the children, this is also about the ever-forgotten side of the story: the parent, whose internal pain in accepting the fact that their life-altering decision has impacted so many elements that may or may not be easy to navigate. Being courageous in ending a relationship not meant for you is the right thing to do, but it doesn't stop there and it doesn't mean that the aftermath would be easy. Separation always hurt everyone and sometimes even time couldn't heal the wounds. All we have left was only recollection and the would've beens.
Review of Aftersun
Aftersun
(II) (2022)
Watched this with nothing in mind, then realized my alternate universe self was on screen the entire time
7 February 2023