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Film Review: The Best of Me
/ November 7, 2014
Rating: M
Release Date: October 30th, 2014.
“Ya’ll like the drama.” People say it about girls all the time when it comes to relationships, and after watching The Best of Me I’m sure we’ll hear it again.
Based on the novel by Nicholas Sparks (The Notebook, Safe Haven, The Last Song), The Best of Me is a rom-drama about high school sweethearts Amanda (Michelle Monaghan/Liana Liberato) and Dawson (James Marsden/Luke Bracey) who reunite in their small home-town 20 years after they were separated. A lot of life has happened, and they wonder whether there was any fate or purpose to their relationship, and if indeed it’s fate bringing them back together now.
Like all of Sparks’ previous work, The Best of Me will either make you gag or gush, but will also offer up some insights:
First, boys – if you want to get the girls, learn how to fix a car (my Dad’s been saying that for a while, he’s glad Sparks caught on).
And second, consider what defines your destiny.
Watching Amanda and Dawson reflect on the lives they’ve lived, and the dreams of their youth, there’s this sense of an overarching plan. They look for a reason and an answer as to why their lives have led to this point, and where they’re supposed to go next. They consider the stars, themselves, their families, personal choice, seeking an anchor for hope and belief in a grand design. As they think about their journey, the door’s opened for us to ponder what God says about ours.
In Jeremiah 29: 11 He tells us He knows the plans and purposes He has for us, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” It isn’t a promise of a life free from difficulty, as Amanda and Dawson well know, but it is a promise of peace in the midst of it. As God says in John 16:33 “ I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” Gods desire for us is to experience His goodness, but yes in this world we will face trouble, however, knowing that He has ultimately overcome evil, and has a plan and purpose, gives us the understanding and perspective to get through those times. Just like Amanda and Dawson come to understand, there’s a thread running through our lives telling a story beyond our own, and even in the messiness God is weaving it all together.
While The Best of Me may perpetuate the female penchant for a little romantic tension, it’s a great encouragement for viewers watching from the trenches; No matter your past, no matter your choices and mistakes, your life can find its course, and you can fulfil your purpose.
High point: Gushing over Luke Bracey.
Low point: Can’t tell you.
Best digested with: Real hot chocolate and a melting moment.
6.5/10
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