Movie in Focus: Me Before You
Based on Jojo Moyes's bestselling book, ' Me Before You' made its way to theatres after 5 years of it getting published in 2016. And that ended the search of all those credulous who were looking for a maudlin film that could tear them apart. Well, that's the way ' Me Before You' created the crater in heart. It was its own kind of romantic, sad, sentimental, lighthearted, and touching movie.
Me Before You is like a cup of hot chocolate on autumn days. Warm. The story is about the protagonist Louisa Clark and Will Traynor. Louisa, in simpleton, Lou, is a young, ardent, and passionate woman. She lost her job at the cafe abruptly. Thus, she starts looking for other jobs desperately to support her family financially.
Her search ends when an unemployment bureau suggests her a job to posite as a caretaker for a disabled man. Desperate Louisa quickly agrees.
Thereafter, Louisa heads for an interview with Camilla Traynor who readily gives her caretaker position despite knowing her meagre knowledge of the same. She starts accompanying Will Traynor. Will Traynor, is a wealthy and adventurous man who was left paralyzed from the neck down after a tragic accident two years prior. Will's life has drastically changed, leaving him bitter and disconnected from the world he once loved.
Will resented Louisa at first by his impertinence. However, strong-willed Louisa gives her best to break down his barriers, which eventually leads to a unique bond where they fall in love with each other.
Once while working Louisa overhears the discussion by Will's parents of Will's wish to take away his life through clinical suicide. This shooks Louisa from the core.
Subsequently, Louisa starts planning visits to luxurious and adventurous places that Will loves or might love. But despite her every effort to make him change his decision, Louisa fails to change him. As their connection deepens, Louisa falls in love with Will, hoping that her love can change his mind about ending his life. However, she eventually realizes that she cannot change his decision, and she comes to accept that love sometimes means letting go.
No spoilers. The story ends with the theme of love, life, choices, and the complexities of finding happiness amidst adversity. It concludes with a message about the value of living life to the fullest, appreciating the moments we have, and finding strength in the connections we make with others.
Me before you is one of those fewer movies which does justice to the book it is adapted from. And Jojo Moyes, the writer of both the book and movie is worthy to steal all the credits. The writing of the movie is layered which has led to fantastic character development. Although, the one who has read the book might find it banal. And might even agree that the book covers more aspects of love than the film screen. But still, it does justice as the movie on screen tries not to replace the words in the book in any way.
The film is quite predictable from its onset itself. But what makes Me Before You stand out is its representation of the themes. For this, the direction ability of Thea Shaarock needs to be praised. As she has meticulously worked out to squeeze the most of emotions with finesse. The story being so obvious is still capable to touch the emotional depth. Another beautiful aspect to consider is the appealing cinematography by John Wilson. The setting of the movie serves as a breathtaking picturesque creating stupendous visuals.
Another reason for the success of the movie to set out as a tearjerker is the chemistry between the leads. Emilia Clarke as Louisa Clark perfectly fits in the shoes of the character. Her charm is what indeed completed her performance. Agreed, the dialogues of the movie are subtle. But Emilia not only stood out in her way by delivering the dialogues but using her expressions to convey the emotions. And that won't be wrong to put in that Emilia's eyebrow is another cast on its own as it played the role at the place where the protagonist can't.
There was no one better than Sam Claffin to play the role of Will Traynor. Owing to the challenges, Sam had to face to play the role of a paralyzed man, Sam worked wonders in playing a role and honestly, it almost felt that Sharrock cast an already paralyzed man for the role. With his Pacific eyes, expressions, and voice, Sam acted well to infuse vulnerability, rawness, and sharp sit to define Will.
Overall the movie is well supported with a deserving cast and direction. However, the movie felt flat in some areas. At some part, the movie has not justified to show the vulnerability of a disabled man. Although assisted clinical suicide was treated realistically instead of going melodramatic. That's the point of appreciation. But the movie has gone far in oversimplifying such a complex topic. Moreover, the movie also lacks in showing the diverse point of view of supporting characters. The script hasn't allowed them to steal the spotlight.
But despite a few flaws, the movie remains a moving and touching film that resonates with many audiences. It sparks conversations about important themes such as love, life, and choices, and its heartfelt performances contribute to its enduring appeal. This makes it a great watch for those suckers who loves grabbing tissues while watching the movie.
