Netflix adapts the 2015 romance novel filled with romance and tragedy…
From the onset of the film, we are introduced to main characters Theodore Finch (Justice Smith) and Violet Markey (Elle Fanning) as the latter is seen standing on top of a bridge. It appears she is about to jump, however, Finch stops her and questions why she is doing it. We then cut to the school where both these troubled teenagers attend.
Finch is a mysterious character to everyone around him, even those who think they know him best. However, when it comes to Violet, in a way they uncover each other’s inner insecurities and help one another out. Without revealing too much, the romance blossoms into something special between the two, and despite a few bumps in the road it is apparent of how deeply they care about each other. However, not all ends well; without giving any spoilers, it brought tears to my eyes.
This film gives so many positives to look back on after watching it. A prominent one is experiencing how the romance develops between our two main characters, Violet and Finch and the struggles they experience together. A particular scene is when the two first embark on an adventure together- Violet not having much of a choice in it.
Both are seen in the woods, standing next to each other and it is apparent Finch is smitten with Violet as he can’t keep his eyes off her. It may be a bit awkward to start with, but within the blink of an eye they are laughing together, enjoying each other’s company. What makes this scene a standout one is as the shot moves closer towards them and becomes a mid-shot compared to a wide shot, simply showing the deeper and more intense look into their conversation, just as if we were there with them.
Not only was the romance within the film portrayed well, but the emotional impact it leaves on viewers is definitely in high regard. Another particular scene that stands out to prove this is in Finch’s car when he is driving her somewhere. The slow, meaningful background music – constantly used throughout the film – is perhaps an ongoing metaphor. We see Violet starting to open up to Finch and as a result, she starts crying but the close up used it just another example of where we see intense emotions within this film, and then this is followed by another close up of Finch reaching for Violets hand to comfort her.
What has been done well in many films, especially over the last few years, is how they tackle mental health as this needs to be treated carefully for anyone watching. This film is another one of these that tackles mental health problems well as it is clear both characters are suffering in silence in some way or other. The ending is sad but satisfying and most definitely brought a tear to my just because by this point I was so invested in these characters, as if I actually knew them.
The only drawback to this film is perhaps the portrayal of Finch’s character in the beginning as watching him potentially makes viewers uncomfortable in terms of the way he acts. However, as time goes on it is clear this is because he is suffering, and is just another way this film tackles mental health. Ultimately, this is an inspiring film to watch and will most definitely tug at your heart strings and bring a tear to your eye in the end.
By Katie Green
Feature image credit: Netflix