Me Before You (2016)
Review: Me Before You (2016) đź’”
Introduction
Me Before You (2016), directed by Thea Sharrock and based on the bestselling novel by Jojo Moyes, is a romantic drama that explores love, loss, and the complexities of life-altering choices. The film follows Louisa Clark (Emilia Clarke), a quirky and optimistic young woman who becomes the caregiver for Will Traynor (Sam Claflin), a wealthy, once-adventurous man who is now paralyzed from the neck down after a tragic accident. Their story is one of emotional growth, understanding, and difficult decisions, and it challenges viewers to consider the limits of love and the value of life.
Plot and Performances
At its core, Me Before You is a love story that transcends the typical romantic formula. Louisa, an outgoing and eccentric woman, finds herself in the role of caregiver to Will, who is cynical, bitter, and deeply depressed due to his paralysis. Despite their stark differences, a bond begins to form between them, and Louisa becomes determined to show Will that life is still worth living, even in the face of overwhelming challenges. However, Will’s own desire to end his life through assisted suicide complicates their relationship and leads to an emotionally charged conclusion.
Emilia Clarke brings a warm, charming, and relatable energy to Louisa, making her a character that is easy to root for. Her portrayal of a young woman struggling to navigate the complexities of love, loss, and self-empowerment is heartfelt and genuine. Sam Claflin’s performance as Will is equally powerful, portraying the struggle of a man who feels trapped in his own body and the emotional turmoil of someone who has lost their former identity. His chemistry with Clarke is undeniable, and their interactions—ranging from light-hearted banter to moments of deep emotional intensity—drive the film’s emotional core.
The supporting cast, including Janet McTeer as Will’s mother and Charles Dance as Louisa’s father, add depth and nuance to the story. Their performances highlight the different perspectives on disability, love, and personal choice, enriching the film’s exploration of these complex themes.
Themes and Emotional Impact
Me Before You tackles sensitive and controversial topics, particularly the issue of assisted suicide and the right to choose how one lives or dies. The film doesn’t shy away from exploring the moral and emotional complexities of Will’s decision to end his life, which becomes a central tension between him and Louisa. Their differing views on life and death create a poignant and heart-wrenching narrative, forcing the audience to confront uncomfortable questions about the nature of suffering, autonomy, and love.
At the same time, the film explores themes of personal growth, self-discovery, and the transformative power of love. Louisa, who begins as a woman unsure of her own worth, is challenged and shaped by her relationship with Will. Through their time together, she learns to live more fully and to embrace her own potential, even as Will, in turn, opens up to the possibility of love despite his circumstances.
Cinematography and Music
Visually, Me Before You offers a gentle and intimate aesthetic, with scenes that highlight the contrasts between the bustling city of London and the serene countryside where Louisa lives. The cinematography by Remi Adefarasin uses soft colors and natural light to convey the warmth and tenderness of Louisa and Will’s relationship, contrasting with the darker, more isolating moments in Will’s life.
The music, composed by Craig Armstrong, enhances the emotional tone of the film. With its sweeping orchestral score and carefully chosen songs, the soundtrack complements the narrative, adding depth to the film’s emotional highs and lows. The inclusion of contemporary pop songs also provides a sense of youthful energy and hope, particularly during the moments of joy and connection between the two leads.
Conclusion
Me Before You is a heart-wrenching, bittersweet love story that grapples with difficult moral dilemmas, emotional pain, and the transformative power of human connection. While it may divide audiences with its controversial stance on assisted suicide, the film offers a compelling and emotionally charged narrative that will resonate with anyone who has ever faced the complexities of love and loss. With strong performances from its leads and a thoughtful exploration of deep, philosophical themes, Me Before You is a moving, if at times painful, exploration of life, death, and everything in between.