Between two seasons of Game of Thrones – the series that catapulted her into the public eye – Emilia Clarke took the opportunity to film. In 2016, the British actor played the first role in the adaptation of the novel of the same name written by Jojo Moyes, Avant toi (I am in front of you).
She slips into the shoes of Louise “Lou” Clarke, an original 26-year-old woman and artist at heart with no particular ambition. He is content to tie jobs to allow his loved ones to make ends meet.
A young and wealthy banker, Will Traynor was a boy full of courage and optimism until he found himself paralyzed after an accident two years ago.
He became cynical, he gave up everything and is only a shadow of himself. Suffice it to say, never the twain shall meet. But when Lou agrees to work as a nanny for Will, she’s determined to give him a taste of life.
And little by little, two young people fall passionately in love with each other. Can the strength of their love survive their seemingly inexorable fate?
It was English actor Sam Claflin who was chosen to play Willie on screen. The latter was surrounded by two occupational therapists to prepare the wheelchair scenes. While Avant toi was a hit in cinemas – French audiences also gave it a very good 4.1/5 on AlloCiné – Thea Sharrock’s film failed to impress the press.
Avan Toy also drew the ire of the disability rights movement when it came out. Its most prominent members – including actress Liz Carr – pointed to the film’s portrayal of disability and condemned the incitement to suicide.
Willy’s character is there presented as a burden to his family because of his shortcomings. The movement also regrets that the producer did not call a disabled actor for the lead role.
This did not prevent the audience from falling in love with the story and the relationship between Emilia Clarke and Sam Claflin. Here’s AlloCiné’s top-rated movie by the actor, well ahead of Solo (3.3/5) and Last Christmas (3.3/5).
Before you leave the Prime Video catalog on April 30.
Source: Allocine
Rose James is a Gossipify movie and series reviewer known for her in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the latest releases. With a background in film studies, she provides engaging and informative reviews, and keeps readers up to date with industry trends and emerging talents.
