Miss You Already (2015) Movie Review: A Heartfelt and Emotional Journey
Miss You Already, directed by Catherine Hardwicke and released in 2015, is a drama that explores the deep bond of friendship and the challenges faced when one friend is diagnosed with a serious illness. Starring Drew Barrymore and Toni Collette, the film presents a poignant and emotional story about love, loss, and the enduring strength of friendship.
Plot Overview
The film centers on the close friendship between Milly (Toni Collette) and Jess (Drew Barrymore). The two women have been inseparable since childhood, sharing a deep connection and supporting each other through life’s ups and downs. However, their friendship is tested when Milly is diagnosed with breast cancer, a diagnosis that forces both women to confront their fears, hopes, and the realities of life and death.
As Milly undergoes treatment and grapples with the impact of her illness on her family and life, Jess stands by her side, offering support and trying to navigate her own life challenges. The film delves into the emotional complexities of their friendship and the impact of Milly’s illness on their lives.
IMDb Rating and Reception
Miss You Already holds an IMDb rating of 6.3/10. The film has received mixed reviews from critics, with praise for the performances of Drew Barrymore and Toni Collette, but some criticism directed at the film’s handling of its emotional themes. Despite the mixed critical reception, the film has been appreciated for its heartfelt portrayal of friendship and the impact of illness.
Cast and Performances
- Drew Barrymore as Jess: Barrymore delivers a heartfelt performance as Jess, capturing the emotional depth and resilience of her character. Her portrayal brings warmth and sincerity to the role, highlighting the supportive and caring nature of Jess’s friendship with Milly.
- Toni Collette as Milly: Collette’s performance as Milly is both powerful and moving. She effectively conveys the struggles and vulnerabilities of her character, providing a nuanced depiction of someone facing a serious illness.
- Dominic Cooper as Kit: Cooper plays Milly’s husband, who is deeply affected by her diagnosis and strives to support her through her treatment. His performance adds to the emotional weight of the film.
- Paddy Considine as Danny: Considine plays Jess’s partner, providing a supportive presence and adding depth to the film’s exploration of relationships and personal challenges.
Themes and Analysis
Friendship and Support: At its core, Miss You Already is about the strength and importance of friendship. The film explores how true friends stand by each other during difficult times and the impact of such support on their lives.
Illness and Resilience: The film tackles the emotional and physical challenges of dealing with a serious illness. It portrays the struggles of both the person diagnosed and their loved ones, highlighting themes of resilience, acceptance, and the impact of illness on relationships.
Life and Loss: The film addresses themes of life, loss, and the inevitability of facing difficult moments. It explores how people cope with the prospect of loss and the importance of cherishing moments with loved ones.
Direction and Cinematography
Catherine Hardwicke’s direction brings a sensitive and emotional approach to the film, focusing on the personal and relational aspects of the story. Her direction ensures that the film remains grounded in the emotional experiences of the characters.
The cinematography by Mandy Walker complements the film’s tone with intimate and engaging visuals, capturing the emotional depth of the characters and the poignancy of their experiences.
Cultural Impact and Legacy
Miss You Already adds to the genre of films that explore friendship and illness, offering a heartfelt and personal portrayal of these themes. While it may not have achieved widespread critical acclaim, it has resonated with audiences who appreciate its emotional honesty and the strong performances of its lead actresses.
The film contributes to discussions about the impact of serious illness on relationships and the importance of support and empathy in times of crisis.
Streaming Availability
As of 2024, Miss You Already is available for streaming on platforms such as Amazon Prime Video and Hulu. It can also be rented or purchased through digital services like Google Play, Apple TV, and Vudu, providing access for those interested in watching this touching drama.
Conclusion
Miss You Already is a heartfelt and emotionally charged drama that explores the enduring bond of friendship in the face of serious illness. With strong performances from Drew Barrymore and Toni Collette, and Catherine Hardwicke’s sensitive direction, the film offers a poignant look at love, support, and resilience. For those interested in stories about friendship and personal challenges, Miss You Already provides a moving and impactful viewing experience.
