“Me Before You Soars to Netflix Success After Re-Release”

The romantic film Me Before You has made a notable comeback on Netflix, climbing to third place in the platform’s viewership charts shortly after its re-release. According to data from FlixPatrol, the film now sits alongside popular titles such as Madagascar and Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire. Originally released in March 2016, the movie features a compelling performance by Sam Claflin, known for his role in Peaky Blinders, and Emilia Clarke, famous for her portrayal of Daenerys Targaryen in Game of Thrones.

Based on the bestselling novel by Jojo Moyes, who also collaborated on the screenplay, the film tells the poignant story of Louisa “Lou” Clark and Will Traynor. Lou, played by Clarke, is a cheerful caregiver who takes on the challenging job of looking after Will, portrayed by Claflin, a wealthy banker left paralyzed after an accident. As their relationship develops, both characters experience transformative changes, leading to a touching narrative about love and life.

The film boasts a strong supporting cast, including Charles Dance as Will’s father, Janet McTeer as his mother, and notable appearances by Brendan Coyle, Matthew Lewis, Vanessa Kirby, and Joanna Lumley, among others.

Despite its commercial success, Me Before You has drawn mixed reactions from critics and audiences alike. The film holds a 55% approval rating from critics on Rotten Tomatoes, while audience ratings are significantly higher at 73%. In a review for The Guardian, Vanessa Thorpe described the film as more than just a “tearjerker,” highlighting its impact on readers of Moyes’ novel, which has resonated deeply with millions.

Viewer responses reflect a range of emotions. One audience member praised the film, stating, “Absolutely brilliant film. Emilia Clarke is great. Sam Claflin is brilliant. A definite must-see.” Another viewer expressed a sense of renewal after watching it, saying, “I feel absolutely cleansed of negativity after watching this.”

However, the film has not been without its critics. Some viewers found it overly sentimental, with one commenting that it felt “manipulative and over-the-top.” This sentiment was echoed by disability rights advocates who argued that the film portrays disabled individuals as burdens on society. Protests occurred during the film’s London premiere, with activists like Ellen Clifford from Not Dead Yet criticizing the narrative for implying that “disability is tragedy” and perpetuating harmful stereotypes.

As Me Before You continues to capture audiences on Netflix, its complex legacy remains a topic of discussion, balancing romantic storytelling with critical social issues.