Navigating the emotional terrain of young love, this film delves into the highs and lows of a relationship on the brink of a big decision. Starring Talia Ryder and Jordan Fisher, this romantic drama is set in a modern-day suburban environment, capturing the essence of teenage life on the cusp of adulthood. Based on Jennifer E. Smith’s novel of the same name, the movie falls squarely within the young adult romance genre, revolving around the final moments of a high school relationship as the characters grapple with the complexities of love, life, and their impending futures.
The story follows Claire and Aidan, a couple who made a pact to break up before heading off to college. On their last night together, they embark on a journey through all the key moments of their relationship, revisiting places and reliving memories that defined their time together. As they walk down memory lane, they confront their feelings, reflecting on whether breaking up is truly the right choice. Through this journey, the film explores the questions every young couple faces: Can love survive distance and time? Is it better to let go and move forward, or hold on to something that feels too important to lose?
One of the most effective elements of the film is the acting. Talia shines as Claire, portraying a girl who is practical, organized, and forward-looking. She gives Claire a grounded sense of independence, which makes her emotional struggle with the breakup all the more relatable. Her chemistry with Jordan, who plays Aidan, is palpable. Jordan brings a relaxed, easy-going charm to the role, capturing Aidan’s more spontaneous, romantic nature. Together, they create a believable and heartfelt dynamic that anchors the film. Their performances are nuanced, particularly in the quieter moments where their characters struggle to articulate their deeper fears and desires. A standout scene where they argue about the future highlights their emotional range, offering viewers a raw and authentic portrayal of the anxiety that comes with young love.
The direction by Michael Lewen is another strong point, maintaining a gentle, intimate tone throughout the movie. He effectively balances the nostalgia of the couple’s memories with the impending reality of their separation. The use of locations – from their first date spot to significant places where key moments of their relationship unfolded – brings an added layer of sentimental value to the story. Lewen’s decision to focus on small, meaningful details, like shared glances and inside jokes, allows the audience to fully engage with the couple’s emotional journey. However, at times, the pacing falters, with some scenes dragging, which momentarily dampens the film’s momentum.
The film’s cinematography, helmed by Bryce Fortner, beautifully captures the suburban landscape and enhances the intimate feel of the story. The soft lighting, particularly during the couple’s night-time explorations, mirrors the emotional tone of the film, as if their love is fading but still glowing softly. The use of close-up shots during moments of vulnerability further enhances the emotional intensity, allowing the audience to feel the weight of the characters’ decisions. The scenic backdrops, whether it’s the sun setting over a quiet lake or a busy carnival filled with laughter, effectively contrast the characters’ internal struggles with the world around them, amplifying the bittersweet tone of the story.
In terms of music, composer Adam Taylor delivers a fitting score that complements the mood of the film. The soundtrack, featuring soft indie tracks and gentle acoustic melodies, enhances the film’s reflective and melancholic atmosphere. The music never overpowers the scenes but rather serves to elevate the emotions already present, particularly during montages of Claire and Aidan’s relationship highlights. It successfully mirrors the ups and downs of their emotional journey, providing a melancholic yet hopeful background to their story.
The film’s thematic focus on the challenges of first love and the complexities of growing up is handled well. It dives into the conflicting emotions young people face as they transition from high school to college, where relationships that once seemed unshakable are suddenly uncertain. The exploration of whether to break up for the sake of personal growth or stay together for the sake of love is a universal theme, but the film personalizes it through Claire and Aidan’s journey, making it resonate more deeply with young audiences. While the central question of whether the couple should stay together or not is predictable, the emotional beats are strong enough to keep the audience engaged until the final scene.
The costume design in the film is subtle but effective. Claire’s wardrobe reflects her practical, organized nature, featuring simple, clean lines, while Aidan’s more relaxed, casual style mirrors his easy-going personality. The costumes don’t stand out in a flashy way, but they perfectly align with the characters and their personas, adding to the realism of their portrayal.
Ultimately, the movie provides a heartfelt and relatable exploration of young love, breakups, and the uncertainties of the future. It effectively captures the bittersweet nature of endings and new beginnings, offering moments that feel both personal and universal. The performances of Talia and Jordan stand out, bringing depth to characters that could have easily fallen into typical teen romance tropes. The film’s gentle pacing and emotional weight make it a thought-provoking watch, especially for those who have experienced or are currently navigating the complexities of young love.
For those who enjoy romance films that delve into the emotional intricacies of relationships, this movie is worth watching. While it may not break new ground in terms of plot or themes, it offers a sincere and touching portrayal of the final days of a relationship, making it a moving film for anyone who has faced the difficult decision of whether to hold on or let go.
