Reel Review: Wish You Were Here will have you holding your Loved Ones Tighter
Julia Stiles has just made her directorial debut, while also making us sob, in her newest film Wish You Were Here.
The adaptation is based on the novel of the same name by Renée Carlino. Starring Isabelle Fuhrman and Mena Massoud, the film follows the beautifully heartbreaking story of Adam and Charlotte. When Charlotte falls for the terminally ill Adam, the two set out to create a lifetime of memories in a few short months. Through this process of loss and love, Charlotte discovers more about herself and all that she is capable of.
The film perfectly represents the art of not knowing. In two hours we are taken on a journey of self-discovery while trying to find answers to the meaning of life. Ultimately, the film suggests that maybe we aren’t meant to know these things, but simply live. Charlotte is constantly searching for answers, but Adam teaches her to live everyday to the fullest with no regrets. These two characters both have a unique perspective on the world, and their story will truly move the viewers to tears.
There is a natural pull between Fuhrman and Massoud that allows the story to unfold effortlessly. The two actors handled their respective characters with such love and care when it came to telling this fragile story. There is also recognizable talent from Jennifer Grey and Antonique Smith, who play Charlotte’s mother and best friend. The two women act as Charlotte’s support system while she deals with a type of grief that is unfathomable.
This film was far more than just a simple romance. It had substance and one powerful message to back it up. This film teaches its viewers to appreciate every day, every piece of art, and every person as they come. It perfectly manages to capture the process of loving someone and setting them free. Julia Stiles has officially made a big impact with this story and left her own mark in the filmmaking industry.
Wish You Were Here is not only an inspiring work of art, but the story itself is all-consuming and will leave an impact on its viewers for many years to come.
Wish You Were Here is out now and available to purchase on Prime Video.
