“All the Bright Places” (2020) is a romantic drama directed by Brett Haley, featuring Elle Fanning as Violet Markey and Justice Smith as Theodore Finch. The film is an adaptation of Jennifer Niven’s 2015 novel, exploring themes of mental health, grief, and the healing power of love.
Violet Markey and Theodore Finch are two high school seniors grappling with personal tragedies. Violet is mourning the loss of her sister, while Finch is struggling with his own mental health issues. Their paths cross when they are paired together for a school project, leading them on a journey through Indiana to discover the beauty in their surroundings and themselves. As they explore the wonders of their state, they form a deep connection that helps them confront their pasts and find hope for the future.
The film has received mixed reviews from critics. On Rotten Tomatoes, it holds a 67% approval rating based on 15 reviews, with an average rating of 6.2/10. The consensus reads, “While ‘All the Bright Places’ doesn’t fully capture the depth of its source material, it offers a heartfelt exploration of young love and personal healing.”
