Directed by: Brett Haley

Rated: TV-MA

Runtime: 1:48

Review by: Livi Edmonson

EDITOR’S NOTE: With many people at home due to coronavirus work and school shutdowns, we offer this Netflix review in the place of our weekly theatre release film review.

‘All the Bright Places’ Netflix’s stunning, authentic portrayal of mental illness

Adapted from the best-selling 2015 novel of the same name, “All the Bright Places” is a Netflix drama unlike any other. Yes, I am biased, since this is my favorite novel of all time — but it actually is that great, like obsessively good. This is a slight case of “the book was better” however, the film is still great, and I highly recommend it — if you are up for a little heart-wrenching drama, this is.

Starring Elle Fanning and Justice Smith, the young adult genre-geared film follows two teenagers, both struggling with mental health issues such as bipolar disorder and depression. However, when they meet each other, their worlds change — both for better and for worse. But most importantly, what evolves is not only a love story between two lovers but a love story between two people who learn to appreciate the smallest moments in life through each other. 

Produced by Elle Fanning herself, the actual production of “All the Bright Places” has been about a three-year process in the making, if not more. With that being said, there has been quite the collection of directors and release dates that have surrounded this film, and honestly, I was quite surprised it even was getting made. Although, I think the decision for this film to be released on a streaming service such as Netflix, instead of being released in the theaters was quite a great decision for the film in terms of audience lure. I do not think that it would have gained the audience the film needed to survive in the box office whereas, with Netflix, audiences are more likely to watch so they don’t have to leave their house — especially now that the Coronavirus will, unfortunately, keep all audience members home.

The main reason this film is so likable is not necessarily because it is a happy, teen love story, because it is actually not. Instead, it authentically portrays mental health in teens the way it should be portrayed, meaning specifically, it isn’t sugarcoated the way it usually is in this genre. This is not a spoiler but no, this film does not have a happy ending. But in a way, it shouldn’t because these typical movie endings, although we love them and enjoy them, are not realistic. But, this is also something you should know before watching this film, in case you want this type of Hollywood ending. However, you are making a mistake if you at least don’t give it a try.

All in all, “All the Bright Places” is beautiful, riveting, and thought-provoking. It is not essentially an energetic, happy film, but it is a great addition to the teen melodrama for those who love to watch a movie and cry — so have your tissues! I give the film an 8.5 out of 10 — but the book was better, as it always is, of course!