Something to fall for
Before I Fall, the best-selling young adult novel by Lauren Oliver, attracted director Ry Russo-Young with its sense of youthful authenticity and intriguing repetitive structure.
“When I read the book, I was struck by how powerful Sam’s story was and what interesting questions were raised by the recurring-day construct,” she said.
“Lauren Oliver’s ability to balance the emotional and philosophical resonated with me on a personal level, as it reminded me of my friendships at that time in my life, how deep and all-encompassing they were, and the dramatic choices that I felt I was facing at the time,” she added.
Russo-Young was mindful of the intense feelings experienced during teen years. “I think it’s a time in one’s life when we ask ourselves who we want to be, in the most vivid manner. These questions are important to carry with us through all stages of life.”
While there is romance and humour, this is a tale that delves deeper than most teen dramas. “Part of what was exciting to me about making a movie that takes place at this particular age is that it’s a time of intensity and drama. It’s a moment when your peer
relationships feel like life or death. I think teens are often more connected to what it means to be alive than we are at other times in life.”
The emotional touchstones also spoke to the young stars. The first-person narrative keeps the focus trained on Samantha “Sam” Kingston, played by Zoey Deutch. She was moved by the emotional elements of the story. Before I
Fall is thoughtful, painful and beautiful. The themes are universal. It explores deep concepts that stick with you for a long time.”
Her co-stars agree. “It’s relatable, dramatic and mysterious,” said Kian Lawley, who plays Sam’s love interest, Rob.
Sam’s trajectory is a complicated one. “Sam begins the movie as a follower, a member of the herd who is doing what her social milieu demands: having all the right friends, going to all the right parties, picking on all the losers,” said Russo-Young.
“She’s someone who disastrously plays by the rules of her group without any selfreflection.”
But the realisation begins to dawn on Sam that there is more to life than the superficial existence she is living. – Citizen Reporter