“All the Bright Places (2020) – A Tender Exploration of Love, Loss, and Healing”
Released in 2020, “All the Bright Places” is a poignant coming-of-age drama directed by Brett Haley, based on the bestselling novel by Jennifer Niven. The film stars Elle Fanning and Justice Smith as two teenagers who form an unexpected bond while grappling with their own personal traumas. With its sensitive portrayal of mental health issues and a heartfelt narrative, “All the Bright Places” offers a moving and reflective look at how love and friendship can provide light in even the darkest moments. Here’s why this film is worth watching and where you can stream it today.
Plot Summary
“All the Bright Places” tells the story of Violet Markey (Elle Fanning) and Theodore Finch (Justice Smith), two high school students in a small Indiana town. Violet is struggling with the recent death of her sister, while Finch, known as “The Freak” to his classmates, battles his own inner demons and mood swings, often feeling like an outsider.
The film begins with a fateful encounter on a bridge where Finch finds Violet standing on the ledge, contemplating suicide. Instead of passing by, Finch approaches her, and this moment marks the beginning of their connection. As they are paired together for a school project to explore the “natural wonders” of Indiana, their friendship deepens into a romantic relationship, helping them both to confront their fears, pain, and uncertainties about life.
Through their shared experiences, Violet begins to rediscover her zest for life, while Finch struggles to maintain his facade of being “fine.” The film delicately balances moments of joy with the underlying sadness that both characters carry, ultimately leading to an exploration of the importance of mental health awareness, support, and understanding.
Why “All the Bright Places” (2020) Stands Out
- Sensitive Portrayal of Mental Health: “All the Bright Places” handles the complex topics of grief, depression, and suicide with a level of care and empathy that is rarely seen in teen dramas. The film doesn’t shy away from showing the struggles of living with mental health issues, making it a powerful tool for sparking conversations about these often-taboo subjects. It emphasizes the importance of seeking help and the impact that love and friendship can have on healing.
- Strong Performances: Elle Fanning and Justice Smith deliver outstanding performances as Violet and Finch. Fanning captures Violet’s quiet sadness and gradual return to life with subtlety and grace, while Smith brings depth and vulnerability to Finch’s complex character. Their chemistry on screen is palpable, making their relationship feel authentic and deeply affecting.
- Beautiful Cinematography: The film’s cinematography, helmed by Rob C. Givens and Wyatt Garfield, adds a layer of visual poetry to the story. The use of natural light, picturesque landscapes, and intimate close-ups enhances the emotional impact of the film. The locations, which serve as the “bright places” that Finch and Violet explore, are filmed with a sense of wonder and beauty, contrasting with the darker themes of the story.
- Emotional Depth and Realism: “All the Bright Places” does not offer easy answers or a neatly wrapped-up ending, reflecting the real-life complexities of dealing with mental health. The film’s emotional depth resonates with audiences, particularly those who have experienced similar struggles, making it both relatable and thought-provoking.
- Impactful Message: The film leaves viewers with an important message about the significance of mental health awareness and the necessity of support systems for those who are struggling. It also highlights the unpredictability of life and the importance of cherishing the moments of light, no matter how fleeting they may be.
Where to Watch “All the Bright Places” (2020) in 2024
“All the Bright Places” is available for streaming on popular platforms in the United States, making it easily accessible for viewers who want to experience this heartfelt film.
Streaming Services
- Netflix: “All the Bright Places” was produced by Netflix, and as such, it is available for streaming exclusively on the platform. Netflix subscribers can watch the film anytime as part of the service’s extensive library. The film can be found under the “Drama” or “Romance” categories, and it’s also recommended for fans of emotional, character-driven stories.
Rental and Purchase Options
Since “All the Bright Places” is a Netflix original, it is not available for rental or purchase on other digital platforms like Amazon Prime Video, iTunes/Apple TV, or Google Play Movies & TV. However, the film’s availability on Netflix ensures that it can be streamed with a subscription.
Conclusion
“All the Bright Places” (2020) is a touching and beautifully crafted film that explores the complexities of love, loss, and mental health with sincerity and sensitivity. The strong performances by Elle Fanning and Justice Smith, combined with the film’s thoughtful approach to difficult topics, make it a standout in the genre of young adult dramas. Whether you’re a fan of the original novel or new to the story, this film offers a moving experience that will stay with you long after the credits roll.
With its availability on Netflix, watching “All the Bright Places” is convenient and accessible. So, if you’re in the mood for a film that is as heartwarming as it is heart-wrenching, this is one you won’t want to miss.
