If you haven't yet experienced the quiet emotional gut-punch that is Aftersun, now's your chance—and it won't cost a dime. Charlotte Wells' stunning directorial debut, starring Paul Mescal, is heading to Plex for free streaming beginning June 1, 2026. This is one of those rare films that lingers long after the credits roll, earning its reputation as one of the most quietly devastating movies of the 21st century.
Released in 2022, Aftersun follows Calum (Mescal), a young father on holiday with his 11-year-old daughter Sophie (Frankie Corio) at a Turkish resort. What starts as a sun-soaked getaway slowly reveals a deeper, more painful story beneath the surface. Mescal's performance earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor, cementing his status as one of Hollywood's most compelling talents—just two years before he'd lead Ridley Scott's Gladiator II.
The film's impact is all the more remarkable given its modest origins. Funded by a £350,000 grant from the National Lottery and Scottish Government, Aftersun went on to gross nearly $10 million worldwide—a testament to its word-of-mouth power and critical acclaim. It's a small movie with an enormous heart, and its arrival on free streaming means a whole new audience can discover its brilliance.
Mescal has since become something of a specialist in making audiences cry. His latest film, Chloé Zhao's Hamnet, delivered another devastating blow, earning Jessie Buckley an Oscar for Best Actress and grossing over $100 million globally. For those who want to dive deeper into emotionally wrecking cinema, check out The 10 Most Emotionally Devastating Drama Films Ever Made, Ranked.
Aftersun isn't just a movie—it's an experience. Its quiet power sneaks up on you, and by the final scene, you'll understand why it's been called a masterpiece. If you're a fan of films that leave you thinking for days, this is essential viewing. And with its free streaming debut on Plex, there's no excuse to miss it.
For more on Mescal's tear-jerking career, read about Paul Mescal's Heart-Wrenching 'Hamnet' Hits Netflix in July 2026. And if you're in the mood for more devastating storytelling, don't miss The 21st Century's Most Perfect Final Movie Shots, Ranked.
