Saarah N
Love me like you do follows two individuals, Jackie and Ryan, as they deal with the struggles of life. Jackie tends to reflect on her life, her past, what brought her there and the choices she has made, whilst Ryan is all about going forward, where next? Ryan is the good-natured, young, traveller. Jackie is a stuck-at-home single mother. They both share a passion for music, Jackie has lived the dream, it didn't go well. Ryan has yet to pursue his, he's patiently seeking it out. What happens when their paths cross? Simple, they help each other. They believe and inspire one another: Jackie inspires Ryan to write his own songs, to be an original. Ryan helps Jackie to move on, and to believe in herself. This was another thing I liked, as well as how the characters are able to be independent of one another- there is none of that all too common mourning, clinging behaviour. They are accepting of one another, especially in the case of Jackie- she understands Ryan and his travelling, train hopping habits. She is strong, she can survive without him. This is a powerful message, which Katherine delivered exceptionally. Do Jackie and Ryan fall in love? That, I'm afraid, is an answer best left to interpretation. I'd like to think they do but, just as easily, they could be passers by in one another's lives, a friendly encounter. This film is so very endearing, Katherine Heigl has always been a favourite of mine, she's such a great actress, her smile, alone, can win her any part. She was very fitting for this role, and there was definitely on screen chemistry between her character and Ryan. A good pair, but I felt their relationship (on-screen) would be better off platonic. The casting choices were a success, even the child actress (played by Emily Alyn Lind) was far from the usual irritating, annoying, cheerful child. It was real, and I loved it. The country themed music (my favourite genre) was beautifully reflective. Before watching this film, I had some reservations- in the end, I watched it because of Katherine Heigl (of course!). Initially, I had thought this would be a romantic comedy, I'm not against those at all, but it was still a pleasant surprise to discover this was different. It wasn't very drama filled, nor was it comedic (at all), I'd have to say it was one of those self discovery type of films, it was very similar to Before we go (starring Chris Evans) I wouldn't watch it again, but only because I feel as though the novelty of the film would no longer exist.Now for what I didn't like: Jackie was portrayed to be sensible in the rest of the film, but she invites a stranger into her home, said home also houses her child and her mother. It was a ridiculous idea, he may have helped her but that doesn't make him any less of a stranger.Another thing is that Jackie was fighting to maintain parental custody of her child, this is a difficult fight for her but it's not too clear if she succeeds. There is no celebration and it did seem a lost case but...I don't like this being left to interpretation.Another thing I didn't like was Jackie's prior romantic relationship (with her soon to be ex husband) as there was no explanation for its failure. I suppose I like knowing everything, my curiosity was unsatisfied, that's all.
stephaniedanyelle
This movie follows two people who live opposite lives, but their love of music brings them together. In the end, you don't know how he ends up. Does he get his record deal? Does she get custody? What happens? I don't like movies that leave things opened ended for you to guess. I like answers. Also, there's not very much acting. There is a lot of music playing, a lot of staring, a lot of long pauses where you are starting at the characters doing nothing for a period of time. With Katherine being a main character, I expected more. This is certainly not one of her top films at all. A lot of "folk" music. All in all, I wouldn't watch it twice.
