WISH YOU WERE HERE - MOVIE REVIEW / ROMANTIC DRAMA FILM

 "Wish You Were Here" marks the directorial debut of Julia Stiles, renowned for her roles in romantic films like "10 Things I Hate About You" and "Save the Last Dance." Scheduled for release on January 17, 2025, this romantic drama is an adaptation of Renée Carlino's 2017 bestselling novel of the same name.

The narrative centers on Charlotte, portrayed by Isabelle Fuhrman, a young woman approaching her 30s who feels adrift in life. She despises her job at a kitschy Mexican-themed restaurant, finding solace only in the company of her best friend and roommate, Helen, played by Gabby Kono-Abdy. One evening, Charlotte encounters Adam, depicted by Mena Massoud, an enigmatic artist with whom she shares an immediate and profound connection. Their spontaneous night together leaves a lasting impression on Charlotte. However, when Adam abruptly disappears the next morning, Charlotte embarks on a quest for answers, leading her to a revelation that alters her life's trajectory: Adam is terminally ill. Determined to make his remaining days meaningful, Charlotte commits to helping Adam live life to the fullest.

The film boasts a notable supporting cast, including Jennifer Grey and Kelsey Grammer. Stiles co-wrote the screenplay with Carlino, aiming to capture the novel's emotional depth and authenticity. Reflecting on her decision to direct this story, Stiles shared, "When I read 'Wish You Were Here,' it broke my heart—but that good cry where you are laughing through tears, and you're reminded how amazing life can be." She added, "I've been wanting to direct my own movie for a while and finally found it with this."

The film has garnered mixed reviews from critics. Nell Minow of RogerEbert.com praised Stiles' casting choices and her effective collaboration with actors, noting, "Stiles does make great use of her experience as an actor in her casting and work with the actors." Conversely, Alissa Wilkinson of The New York Times commented on the film's pacing, stating, "Something about the rhythm feels off: too many pauses, not enough of the propulsion necessary to make the movie sing."

"Wish You Were Here" was filmed across various locations in New Jersey and Florida, with notable scenes shot in Paterson and East Orange, NJ, as well as Deerfield Beach, FL. These settings provided a diverse backdrop that complements the film's narrative.

The film's musical score was composed by Vanessa Carlton and her husband, John McCauley. Carlton, a longtime friend of Stiles since their high school days, expressed her enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, "It was so fabulous—our first time scoring a film. Julia is such an amazing director, and she gave us such wonderful clear guidance musically."

As "Wish You Were Here" approaches its release, audiences can anticipate a heartfelt exploration of love, loss, and the transformative power of human connection, all brought to life under Julia Stiles' direction.