Miss You Already

Milly and Jess have been best friends ever since they met in school: from partying away in their youth to settling down later on, they have stayed close through the years, even though they enjoy different lifestyles. However, things are about to change when Milly finds out she has breast cancer – news that inevitably leaves its mark not only on her life, but on those around her too.

Although this is not based on real events, the story feels all too real in its simplicity: the honest portrayal of the disease and the massive effect it has on people. Written by Morwenna Banks, the film escapes from all the clichés of the trade and, instead of presenting saint-like characters, gives hot-blooded, three-dimensional human beings with all the characteristics that come with that. Miss You Already is a unique concoction of comedy and drama – a much-sought-after combo that, in this case, works. A thing of extremes, the film is not simply a drama with a few light jokes here and there that manage to steal no more than a shy smile from the viewer. On the contrary, it offers laugh-out-loud moments aplenty and some quality tearjerkers, proving that this is a genre that is perfectly attainable – as long as one draws from real life, apparently. The writing is witty and smart, not shying away from dirty jokes and sharp sarcasm, making the characters feel all the more real and resulting in a beautiful, heart-warming story.

This is, of course, complemented by some splendid performances – both of the leading ladies are superb. Drew Barrymore is at her best, but it is Toni Collette who steals the show here. Apart from her impressive transformation as a cancer sufferer, her dedication to the role is felt throughout, in each facial expression, in each word spoken – she is a woman that tells the dirtiest jokes just before she makes you choke on your tears, and does so effortlessly. As for the men, Dominic Cooper is definitely on top form, while Paddy Considine is simply adorable as Jess’ loving husband. Another great thing? Even though female friendship is at the core of the title, this is not the only relationship that drives the narrative – and with that, Miss You Already is already a step ahead in its category. One last thing: have tissues at the ready.

Lyubomira Kirilova

Miss You Already is released nationwide on 25^th September 2015.

Watch the trailer for Miss You Already here: