Me Before You” (2016) Review

Director: Thea Sharrock
Based on: Jojo Moyes’s 2012 novel of the same name
Starring: Emilia Clarke, Sam Claflin, Janet McTeer, Charles Dance, Brendan Coyle

Plot Summary: “Me Before You” tells the story of Louisa Clark (Emilia Clarke), a quirky and cheerful young woman who becomes a caregiver for Will Traynor (Sam Claflin), a wealthy man who has been left paralyzed from the neck down following an accident. As Louisa helps Will adjust to his new life, the two form an unexpected bond that challenges both of their perspectives on life, love, and personal choices.

Review:

1. Storyline and Adaptation: The film adaptation of Jojo Moyes’s bestselling novel captures the core elements of the book’s emotional and romantic narrative. It explores complex themes such as disability, assisted suicide, and the right to make one’s own choices about life and death. While the film simplifies some of the book’s nuances to fit the cinematic format, it succeeds in delivering a heartfelt and engaging story that resonates with many viewers.

2. Performances: Emilia Clarke delivers a delightful performance as Louisa Clark. Her portrayal brings a mix of warmth, humor, and emotional depth to the character, making Louisa both endearing and relatable. Sam Claflin as Will Traynor provides a nuanced performance, effectively conveying the challenges of living with a severe disability and the emotional struggles that accompany it. The chemistry between Clarke and Claflin is palpable, which is crucial for the film’s romantic and emotional impact.

3. Direction and Cinematography: Thea Sharrock’s direction is steady and sensitive, handling the film’s emotional themes with care. The cinematography is bright and visually appealing, enhancing the film’s romantic and uplifting moments. The picturesque settings, including the scenic countryside and charming locales, add to the film’s aesthetic appeal and underscore its feel-good nature.

4. Themes and Emotional Impact: “Me Before You” addresses heavy themes such as disability and euthanasia with a blend of sensitivity and candor. It prompts viewers to reflect on issues of quality of life, personal autonomy, and the impact of love and companionship. While the film has been praised for its emotional depth, it has also faced criticism for its portrayal of disability and its handling of the assisted suicide theme, with some arguing that it oversimplifies or romanticizes these complex issues.

5. Music and Soundtrack: The film’s soundtrack, featuring a mix of contemporary and classic songs, complements the narrative and adds to the emotional tone of the film. The music helps enhance key moments and reinforces the film’s romantic and poignant atmosphere.

6. Reception and Legacy: “Me Before You” received generally positive reviews from audiences and critics, particularly for the performances of Emilia Clarke and Sam Claflin. However, it also sparked discussions and debates about its depiction of disability and its handling of assisted suicide. Despite this, the film has been appreciated for its emotional storytelling and has gained a loyal following, particularly among fans of the novel.

Conclusion: “Me Before You” is a well-crafted romantic drama that combines heartfelt performances with a touching and thought-provoking story. While it has faced criticism for its portrayal of sensitive issues, it remains a compelling film that explores the transformative power of love and the complexities of making difficult choices. Its emotional depth and the chemistry between its leads make it a memorable and impactful viewing experience.