Mom's Minute

Introduction to After - A Netflix Movie Review by Ms. H

The movie After was a surprisingly entertaining film. I say “surprisingly” because initially, I thought that this movie would be your run-of-the-mill college dating-type films with the wild frat parties, dorm room fights, etc. However, I believe you may enjoy watching this movie -- especially since the movie is told in such a way tha draws you into the story along with the characters.

Title of the After Movie

In my opinion, the movie’s title, After, did not convey fully what the story is all about. Let’s face it -- the word “After" can mean just about anything depending on the circumstances and scenarios. On the flip side, maybe the writer was looking for a movie name that was short and one that you could easily remember. No need to try to figure out the meaning of the title for yourself before you watch the film. Why? Because within  the first few frames of the movie, the reason for the title is clearly revealed.

Skills of the Actors in the After Movie

For the most part, the acting skills were adequate for the movie. There was one actress who started off  playing the “bad girl” part but  unexplainably softened up during the middle and end of the movie. Looking back on the movie After, it’s interesting to me that she did this, especially when she knew what was going on. You will know what I’m talking about if you watch the movie After.

Authenticity of the Characters in the After Movie

The casting staff did an expert job of selecting the two actors who would essentially carry the movie -- Hero Fiennes-Tiffin played the part of Hardin Scott and Josephine Langford played the part of Tessa Young.Their acting relationship seemed to be genuine and sometimes you may forget that you are watching a movie with feigned emotions, acting lines, scripted dialogue, etc..

Little known fact: Alicia Keys teamed up with Michael Bay to sing the song “I Believe in Us” in 2018, even though he had already released it as a solo song. The solo song can be heard during the movie After. Be careful. Cautionary warning: If you listen to this song often enough on itunes, etc., the tune may get stuck in your head.

Music - Songs in the After Movie

Speaking of songs -- I think that  the background music played during the movie was worth listening to even after the movie concluded. The song that stood out to me was Michael Bay's song called “I Believe in Us.”  Believe it or not (no pun intended), this song came out back in 2018; however, I never heard it before. There were other musical selections as well that you may want to check out. Just remember my cautionary warning about a particular song -- "I Believe in Us" as stated above. 

Assessment of the After Movie

I know some people may label this movie a “Chick Flick” but I think males and anyone else who likes a good story with a huge unexpected twist will enjoy this film. Additionally, the story was told in an entertaining way that will probably keep your interest. 

Spoiler Alert:  One of the downsides of the movie was the way everything turned out in the end -- which could be realistic for some and may be an attempt to satisfy the audience desire for a “happy ending” for others. My take is that it was unrealistic. That being said and despite the ending, I think you will agree with me after you watch the movie that watching the film Afrer was not a waste of your time. 

Rating of the After Movie

Based on a rating of 1 star to 5 stars with 5 stars being the highest, I rate the After Netflix movie 5 stars.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SXe4rqxWvqY