Pablo Borges‘s 2024 short film The Wandering Island (original title La Isla Errante) charmed me with its touching story, beautiful cinematography and last, but not least, skillful camerawork focusing on an idyllic childhood and the acting/appearance of the young Sergio Hernandez in the role of Carlos – a young boy haunted by the mystery of his father’s absence.
This film tells the story of Carlos (Sergio Hernández), a young boy raised by his grandfather, Federico (José Luis Madariaga). Federico is battling to keep his struggling banana farm afloat while grappling with a tempting offer from an investment fund to buy the neighbouring land. It opens with mystical music and a medieval-style screen that presents Saint Brendan’s legend. The story is a mixture of mythology, fantasy, and real-life issues, and I could relate to it based on my past summers spent on a paradise-like beach, which I loved back then but truly appreciated when I lost them.
Sergio Herrera‘s cinematography contributes much of the film’s appeal. Whether the camera focuses on the protagonists or the beautiful nature of the island where the action takes place, the cinematographer uses natural elements, light, and colour to evoke a serene and contemplative mood. Additionally, framing and the utilization of golden-hour lighting, combined with the subtle contrast between light and shadow, create a visually striking composition that enhances the scene’s warmth and depth while evoking a sense of intimacy and nostalgia.
Ricardo González’s soundtrack, blending Canarian folkloric rhythms with Latin influences, adds authenticity to the film while enhancing its emotional depth and themes.
The scenes featuring the young boy were somewhat puzzling to me until I realized that the depiction of an ideal childhood serves not only to evoke nostalgia in the viewers but is also linked to the story’s final resolution. They enrich the narrative with a compelling Coming-of-Age motif, a theme I eagerly anticipated. Furthermore, the beauty of the youth is portrayed with significant effect by the clever direction of Pablo Borges, and actor’s charisma of the young Sergio Hernandez serves as a visual symbol of purity, hope, and untainted aspirations. This contrasts effectively with the harsh realities of the farm’s economic struggles and the mysteries of the father’s absence.
Beautiful, poetic storytelling and a nostalgia-infused narrative with a hint of Coming-of-Age, The Wandering Island is a prime example of an impactful short film.
