Every ending is a new beginning.|Jul. 06, 2022|United States|83 Min.|R
Genre: Crime;Drama;Romance
Description: The 2022 film “Hello, Goodbye and Everything in Between,” directed by Michael Lewen and based on Jennifer E. Smith’s novel, offers a heartfelt exploration of teenage relationships and emotions. However, while the Netflix original treats its teenage audience with empathy, it struggles with narrative believability and predictable outcomes.
The story follows two modern-minded teenagers who make a 10-month dating pact, agreeing to break up the night before they leave for college. But is this a realistic portrayal of teenage behavior, or are the adult creators projecting their own ideas onto younger characters?
Clare, a cautious high school senior, believes she’s risk-averse due to her parents’ divorce and frequent moves during her childhood. Focused on her studies, she avoids distractions like boys and friendships to secure a bright future at a good college. Her world changes when her best friend, Stella, convinces her to attend a Halloween party. There, Clare meets Aidan, and the two instantly connect. They spend the evening flirting and chatting at a nearby playground, symbolizing their transition from childhood to maturity.
In a naïve moment, Clare proposes a risky agreement: they will date until the end of the school year and break up before starting college. Aidan agrees, ignoring the potential complications. Their whirlwind romance is depicted through a fast-paced montage of milestones, from their first date to their first “I love you.” However, as their agreed-upon breakup date approaches, their friends and family question the wisdom of their decision.
The film raises important questions about love, commitment, and whether such a planned separation is truly possible or realistic.
Cast director: Michael Lewen
Cast actor: Talia Ryder, Jordan Fisher, Nico Hiraga, Ayo Edebiri, Emily Haine, Djouliet Amara, Sarah Grey, Jennifer Robertson, Julia Benson, Sarah Hayward
Original name: Hello, Goodbye and Everything In Between