After (2019) directed by Jenny Gage is not your typical romance drama. This movie review dives into the magically chaotic world where romance meets a whirlwind of dark secrets. If you're a fan of starry-eyed romance sprinkled with high stakes, featuring Josephine Langford and Hero Fiennes Tiffin in pivotal roles, you just might be in for a rollercoaster ride.
Based on the novel by Anna Todd, After unravels the life of Tessa, a young woman who falls for Hardin, a brooding bad boy with the proverbial 'dark secret'. It's like watching a modern fairy tale where Prince Charming comes with baggage—loads of it. The plot weaves through their tumultuous relationship, testing the waters of young love mingled with mystery. If you ask me, the plot is clichéd yet satisfying, almost like eating a comfort food that you know is bad for you but hits all the right spots!
Josephine Langford, as Tessa, delivers a relatable and powerful performance. I felt an instant connection to her journey, which says something about her acting chops—bravo! Hero Fiennes Tiffin, though, had shades of brilliance, yet sometimes his 'tortured soul' act felt a bit over the top. The direction by Jenny Gage brings a unique touch to the drama, although at times the pacing felt uneven. The screenplay, penned by Susan McMartin, Tamara Chestna, and Gage herself, does justice to the novel, albeit taking some narrative liberties. Does the cinematography dazzle? Somewhat. It captures moody vibes pretty well, echoing the emotional turbulence of the duo.
Now, how does After compare with other romance dramas? Think of films like 'The Kissing Booth' or 'Twilight'—Yes, I went there! While these films playfully dance around romance with sprinkles of tension, After dives headfirst into the murky waters of a complicated relationship. Is it a cinematic masterpiece? Probably not. But it has its own charm, much like flipping through your high school scavenger yearbook—nostalgic and cringe-worthy yet irresistible!
If this genre tickles your fancy, then After might just be your jam. It's undoubtedly a must-watch film for those seeking a dash of drama with their love stories. Still, if you prefer narratives with depth and character development, you might want to sit this one out. But, hey, don't take my word for it—grab some popcorn, maybe a friend who's a sucker for drama, and dive into the world of 'After'. You just might uncover a guilty pleasure in this film critique!