Me Before You - Love Beyond Limits
IMDb Rating: 7.4/10
Release Date: June 3, 2016
Genres: Romance, Drama
Language: English
Director: Thea Sharrock
Writer: Jojo Moyes (based on her novel)
Stars: Emilia Clarke, Sam Claflin, Janet McTeer
Top cast: Charles Dance, Jenna Coleman, Matthew Lewis, Brendan Coyle
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Awards
Me Before You received nominations across multiple categories. Notably, Emilia Clarke's performance earned critical praise, and the movie's unique storyline received accolades at the Teen Choice Awards and People's Choice Awards. It was nominated for Best Actress in a Drama at the People's Choice Awards and Teen Choice Summer Movie. Clarke was nominated for Choice Summer Movie Actress, capturing audiences with her role as Louisa.
Synopsis of Me Before You
Me Before You follows Louisa Clark (Emilia Clarke), a quirky and upbeat young woman hired to care for Will Traynor (Sam Claflin), a once-adventurous banker now paralyzed and facing a bleak outlook on life. Lou's goal is to lift Will's spirits and remind him of the beauty in life. But as their relationship deepens, both characters face unexpected emotions that challenge their beliefs about happiness, self-worth, and love. Known in some regions as Yo Antes de Ti, the film highlights the transformative impact two people can have on each other.
Will and Lou’s journey is a heartfelt exploration of finding purpose, challenging societal expectations, and understanding love’s true, sometimes painful depth. The film balances humor with profound, tear-jerking moments, resulting in a story that resonates with audiences on many levels.
Moral of the Movie
At its core, Me Before You emphasizes the power of choice and the importance of understanding individual agency. It brings to light how love can shape our decisions, even when those choices aren’t easy. Will’s struggle with his condition and Lou’s efforts to change his perspective reveal the delicate balance between supporting someone and respecting their autonomy. This moral thread underscores how even in moments of despair, our actions can bring light into someone else’s life.
The movie also serves as a reminder that life, despite its challenges, is worth exploring. Each day is an opportunity to create memories, build relationships, and pursue new dreams.
What do we get to learn from the Movie
Me Before You teaches us the value of relationships and how each connection has the power to leave a lasting impact. Lou and Will’s bond showcases how love can go beyond typical romantic expectations, leaning into a kind of love that’s both accepting and respectful. Their relationship serves as a reminder to support friends and family wholeheartedly, even when their choices differ from ours.
The story’s uplifting message about friendship and family bonds encourages us to treasure our loved ones, inspire each other, and seek joy in life’s small moments. It’s a comforting reminder that life’s purpose often lies in these simple yet profound connections.
Similar Movies
- The Fault in Our Stars (2014) - IMDb 7.7/10 - Romance, Drama - Two teens fall in love despite life’s challenges.
- A Walk to Remember (2002) - IMDb 7.4/10 - Romance, Drama - A rebellious teen falls for a conservative pastor's daughter.
- P.S. I Love You (2007) - IMDb 7.0/10 - Romance, Drama - A widow discovers letters left by her late husband.
Where to Watch
Currently available on streaming platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime. Check regional availability.
Prequels / Sequels
There are no official sequels or prequels for Me Before You. However, Jojo Moyes, the book’s author, wrote a follow-up novel titled After You, which explores Lou’s journey after Will. The novel has not been adapted into a film.
Popularity
Me Before You resonated internationally, particularly in the US and UK, where its story of resilience and romance found an enthusiastic audience. The movie’s relatable characters and tear-jerking storyline contributed to its broad appeal, drawing fans of romance and drama alike. Though fictional, the realistic portrayal of Will's struggles and Lou’s hopeful spirit has left an emotional mark on viewers.
Fun Facts
- Emilia Clarke’s quirky wardrobe as Lou was inspired by Jojo Moyes’ description in the book.
- The movie’s key scenes were shot in Pembroke Castle, Wales.
- Sam Claflin spent time training in a wheelchair to accurately portray Will's character.
- Jojo Moyes was closely involved in the film adaptation, even visiting the set regularly.
- Emilia Clarke revealed that Lou’s cheerful persona was a refreshing break from her intense role as Daenerys in Game of Thrones.
Character Highlights
- Louisa Clark (Emilia Clarke): An optimistic and unique woman who refuses to let life’s setbacks bring her down.
- Will Traynor (Sam Claflin): A former banker, Will’s outlook on life is shattered after his accident, leaving him to confront a difficult choice.
- Camilla Traynor (Janet McTeer): Will’s mother, who struggles to support him in his challenging journey.
Quotes
- "You only get one life. It's actually your duty to live it as fully as possible."
- "Push yourself. Don't Settle. Just live well. Just live."
- "Sometimes, Clark, you are pretty much the only thing that makes me want to get up in the morning."
Soundtrack Information
Composed by Craig Armstrong, the soundtrack includes touching tracks that underscore the movie’s emotional highs and lows. Notable songs like Photograph by Ed Sheeran and Unsteady by X Ambassadors became anthems for the film’s heartfelt narrative.
Thematic Analysis
Key themes in Me Before You include the transformative power of love, the meaning of true happiness, and the complexity of choice. The film touches on resilience, acceptance, and the search for fulfillment, capturing how love can change lives even in the face of tragedy.
Behind-the-Scenes
Filming took place in scenic Pembroke Castle, Wales, adding a majestic feel to the story. Clarke and Claflin developed a close friendship on set, bringing genuine chemistry to their roles as Lou and Will.
Adaptation
Based on Jojo Moyes’ bestselling novel, Me Before You closely follows its source material. Moyes, who also wrote the screenplay, ensured the adaptation maintained the book's emotional tone, which was essential for fans who loved the novel.
Cultural Impact
Since its release, Me Before You has fueled discussions about disability representation, the ethics of choice, and the dynamics of caregiver relationships. The film has left a lasting influence, with many fans calling it a defining movie in the romance genre.
Box Office Collection
The film grossed over $208 million worldwide, a significant success for a mid-budget romance drama. Its box office success aligns with popular movies like The Fault in Our Stars and The Notebook.
5 Key Takeaways from the Movie
- Life is full of unexpected turns – embrace them.
- True love sometimes means letting go.
- Personal choice is a fundamental right.
- Small joys can be the biggest source of happiness.
- Every day is an opportunity to live well.
Director's Cut
Thea Sharrock aimed to create an emotionally authentic portrayal, crafting scenes that highlight each character’s struggles and personal growth. Her approach was to keep the tone hopeful, even in somber moments, allowing viewers to feel the movie's raw, bittersweet essence.
Story: Finding Hope and Love
The small, quaint English village where Louisa "Lou" Clark has lived her whole life is charming, if a little stagnant. Known for her quirky style and infectious positivity, Lou brings brightness to her family and friends, but she feels like she’s missing a larger purpose. After losing her job at a local café, Lou lands a new position as a caregiver for Will Traynor, a once-energetic and adventurous young man who now lives with quadriplegia following a tragic accident. Lou has no prior experience in caregiving, but she’s determined to make the best of it, hoping she can spark a change in Will’s life. Little does she know, the experience will change her life in ways she never anticipated.
Will Traynor is Lou’s opposite in every way. Before his accident, he was successful, constantly traveling, and lived a life filled with adventures—skiing in the Alps, surfing in Australia, and even skydiving. Now, confined to a wheelchair, he’s withdrawn, battling despair, and feeling stripped of the life he once cherished. When Lou enters his world with her unconventional charm and humour, Will is initially resistant. He’s grown accustomed to people’s pity and expects Lou to be just another caregiver who can’t truly understand his loss.
But Lou’s persistence is unwavering. She makes it her mission to bring light into Will’s life, refusing to be discouraged by his cold exterior. She learns his favourite music and attempts to engage him with amusing anecdotes. Gradually, she cracks through his hardened shell. Will’s laughter, rare as it is, becomes more frequent, and his once-pessimistic perspective begins to shift slightly. Through her kindness and infectious spirit, Lou manages to awaken a part of Will that he thought was lost.
As the days pass, Lou discovers that her job has a far greater purpose. She learns of Will’s plan to end his life at a Swiss clinic, as he cannot bear to live with his limitations. This revelation shatters Lou. Refusing to give up, she sets out on a mission to convince Will that life is still worth living, hoping to change his mind through unforgettable experiences. Lou plans adventures for them, starting with a classical music concert and eventually organizing a vacation to Mauritius, where she tries to show Will the joys of living despite his condition. The vacation is filled with laughter, deep conversations, and moments that bring them closer. It’s during this trip that Lou realizes her feelings for Will go beyond friendship. She’s in love, and for the first time, she sees a future filled with possibility, albeit one that might come with profound heartbreak.
Will, too, begins to care deeply for Lou. He sees her potential and pushes her to embrace life fully, encouraging her to go beyond the boundaries of their small town. He dreams of Lou exploring the world, learning new things, and pursuing her passions, not tied down by her family’s modest expectations. In his eyes, she deserves a life brimming with adventure—something he can’t give her in his current state.
However, the core conflict remains. Despite the undeniable connection and love they share, Will is set on his decision. He wants Lou to remember him as he is now, not as a man who’s lost himself to suffering. This is a moment of intense turmoil for Lou, who now faces the reality that love, while transformative, might not be enough to heal someone’s deepest pain. She pleads with Will to reconsider, but his mind is made up.
Upon returning home, they are both changed. Lou is heartbroken but resolute, understanding now that loving someone sometimes means letting go. Will’s death becomes both a profound loss and a bittersweet catalyst for Lou’s growth. She begins to truly live as Will had encouraged, exploring the world and chasing dreams she once thought were out of reach.
By choosing life, Lou carries forward Will’s legacy, honouring his memory in every new experience. From her newfound love for travel to finally moving beyond her comfort zone, she lives out the lessons he imparted to her, embracing each day with gratitude and wonder. Their story shows us that love has the power to heal, inspire, and, at times, gently guide us toward acceptance.
In Me Before You, we’re reminded that life’s beauty lies in the unexpected bonds we form and the impact we have on each other’s journeys. Even though Lou and Will’s story doesn’t end in a fairy tale, it’s an honest reflection of the transformative power of love, loss, and resilience.
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What’s your favourite moment from Lou and Will’s journey? Share your thoughts or favourite fan theories in the comments below!
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