Based on the book written by Kazuo Ishiguro and the screenplay written by Alex Garland this film has plenty of literary kudos. That said I was reluctant to see the film as it stars two actresses who tend to annoy me, Keira Knightley and Carey Mulligan. However, both are perfectly cast as Ruth and Kathy, children who grow up in a strange but idyllic boarding school to be told by a new disobedient teacher that all is not what it seems. Tommy, played movingly by Andrew Garfield, completes the love triangle that dominates this unusual genre hybrid story and we follow the characters as they learn of and accept their fate. Most will be aware of the sci-fi elements within this love story and it certainly becomes profound and moving. Acceptance is the most shocking thing about this story and we see no sign of rebellion or resistance, just acceptance and this may be the most moving aspect of the film.
Never Let Me Go has a very British feel to it and stylistically it is incredibly interesting. Whether it is the muted browns and turquoises that dominate the palette or the vintage inspired objects that give the film a timeless quality, each shot is carefully considered and beautifully constructed. The final decision of how to depict this alternative reality is restrained and thought-provoking and the haunting music by Rachel Portman really complements the visuals and emotions conjured up. There is also the resistance to build up and reveal the truth in a dramatic ‘Hollywood’ way which means that it is almost possible to miss or misunderstand the information as it is revealed and this could be extremely disconcerting for the viewer. As an audience of films today with plots that are deliberately built up, spelt out and dramatically revealed it is surprising for this to not happen in this film and also extremely refreshing. Never Let Me Go is brave and original, with great performances and painfully beautiful shots that echo the story and the emotions of both the characters and the audience of the film.
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