Now Is Good Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

A girl with cancer makes a bucket list, meets a cute guy, and everyone cries, especially when they realize she won’t get to see the sequel.

🍿 Now Is Good: Detailed Plot Synopsis

Introduction to Tessa and Her List

Tessa Scott, a 17-year-old girl living in England, is diagnosed with terminal leukemia. Determined to make the most of her remaining time, she creates a bucket list of experiences she wants to have before she dies, including losing her virginity, trying drugs, and breaking the rules. Her best friend, Zoey, supports her endeavors, often joining her on these adventures.

Finding Love with Adam

Tessa meets Adam, her new neighbor, who is caring for his disabled mother. Despite her initial focus on her bucket list, Tessa finds herself drawn to Adam’s kindness and understanding. They begin a relationship, and Adam becomes a source of comfort and support for Tessa as her health deteriorates. Their love story unfolds against the backdrop of Tessa’s illness, adding a poignant layer to their connection.

Confronting Family Dynamics

Tessa’s illness deeply affects her family. Her father struggles to accept her impending death, constantly researching potential treatments, even after she has stopped chemotherapy. Her mother distances herself emotionally, unable to cope with the situation. Tessa’s relationship with her younger brother, Cal, is complex, marked by both affection and the challenges of dealing with her illness. Tessa experiences moments of guilt over the stress and grief her illness causes her family.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Tessa Scott (Dakota Fanning): A seventeen-year-old girl with terminal leukemia who is determined to experience life to the fullest by completing a bucket list before she dies.
• Adam (Jeremy Irvine): Tessa’s kind and supportive neighbor who falls in love with her, promising to stay by her side until the end.
• Father (Paddy Considine): Tessa’s caring but overbearing father struggles to cope with his daughter’s impending death and tries to treasure their remaining time together.
• Mother (Olivia Williams): Tessa’s estranged mother who struggles to cope with her daughter’s illness and is emotionally distant.
• Zoey (Kaya Scodelario): Tessa’s best friend who helps her fulfill her bucket list and faces her own unplanned pregnancy.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Tessa Scott: “Our life is a series of moments. Let them all go. Moments. All gathering towards this one.” – This is her final monologue, reflecting on life’s fleeting nature and the importance of embracing each moment.
• Tessa Scott: “This right here, right now, is definitely a moment.” – Tessa emphasizes the importance of seizing the present and not postponing experiences.
• Tessa Scott: “Now is good.” – The film’s title quote, a mantra for Tessa to embrace the present moment despite her terminal illness.
• Tessa Scott: “Don’t you dare expect me to feel sorry for you because you get left behind, don’t you f-ing dare!” – Said to Adam, urging him not to wallow in self-pity after her death, but to continue living his life.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $10,000,000
• Domestic Gross: $278,795
• Worldwide Gross: $2,273,746

💥 Now Is Good Reviews

Personal Review

I was a complete wreck after watching this! Dakota Fanning’s performance was incredible; I truly felt her pain and frustration. The scene where she breaks down after finding out Adam is planning for university ripped my heart out! I found the ending both beautiful and devastating; it really made me think about how precious every moment is. Definitely have tissues ready!

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of coming-of-age dramas”
  • “Viewers who enjoy emotional stories”
  • “Dakota Fanning fans”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Terminal illness”
  • “Death”
  • “Teenage sexuality”
  • “Drug use”
  • “Strong language”

Professional Reviews

• IMDb: “Dakota Fanning delivers a sensitive portrayal of a terminally ill teenager. While the plot is familiar, the performances elevate the material, offering an emotional exploration of life and loss. The film avoids excessive sentimentality, opting for an honest depiction of a difficult journey. The supporting cast also shines, adding depth to this poignant drama. Overall, a worthwhile watch if you’re prepared for an emotional experience.
• Rotten Tomatoes: “A touching but predictable story of a young girl dealing with terminal cancer. Dakota Fanning delivers a committed performance, yet the film struggles to overcome its clichéd premise. Despite some heartfelt moments, ‘Now Is Good’ doesn’t quite reach the emotional heights it aims for.
• Common Sense Media: “‘Now Is Good’ tackles the difficult topic of terminal illness with sensitivity, but it may be too mature for younger teens. Dakota Fanning’s performance is commendable, and the film prompts thoughtful discussions about life and death. However, some may find the plot predictable and the emotional tone heavy-handed.

Audience Reactions

Dakota Fanning’s powerful performance truly captures the struggles of a teen facing mortality.: Viewers praised the emotional depth and realism of the film’s portrayal of terminal illness.

The film’s beautiful scenery and soundtrack enhance the emotional impact of the story.: Audiences appreciated the film’s sensitive handling of a difficult subject.

Overall Consensus: A poignant and emotional drama, praised for its performances and sensitive portrayal of terminal illness, but criticized for its predictability.

Awards

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “Jeremy Irvine was offered the lead role of ‘Peeta Mellark’ in The Hunger Games (2012), but he turned down the role to do this film instead.”
• “Dakota Fanning’s performance was praised for its naturalness, avoiding melodrama and focusing on the character’s strength and vulnerability.”

🖥️ How to Watch Now Is Good?

As of October 2024, ‘Now Is Good’ is available for rent or purchase on various platforms including Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, and Vudu. Check your local listings for streaming availability.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed Now Is Good, you might like these similar films:

• The Fault in Our Stars (2014): Deals with similar themes of teenage cancer, love, and finding meaning in life, appealing to the same audience.
• A Walk to Remember (2002): A similar love story involving a terminally ill young woman and a life-changing relationship.
• Me Before You (2016): Explores themes of love, loss, and assisted suicide. Be prepared for plenty of tears.
• My Sister’s Keeper (2009): Focuses on a family coping with a child’s cancer diagnosis and the moral dilemmas they face.

🛒 Now Is Good Related Products

• Jenny Downham – Before I Die [Paperback]: The novel that inspired the movie, for those who want to delve deeper into Tessa’s story.
• Dakota Fanning Film Collection [DVD Set]: A collection of Dakota Fanning’s earlier films, showcasing her range as an actress.
• Wall Tapestry: A wall tapestry to design your room.
• Brighton England Print: Bring the vibes of the British movie home

🎧 Soundtrack

Now Is Good features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “Soufie” – performed by Banco de Gaia
• “Skinny Love” – performed by Birdy
• “Without You” – performed by Sasha Siem

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

“Haunt me, I dont mind”. Not many whispers hold such a scream.

Want a quick emotional hit? This clip from ‘Now Is Good’ perfectly captures the movie’s heart. Seriously, it’s powerful stuff, and the description gives you the full picture – you’ll be hooked!

Dakota Fanning Interview – Now is Good Premiere

Ever wonder what Dakota Fanning thought about filming ‘Now Is Good’? This interview gives you the inside scoop straight from her! She even talks about Twilight a bit – I always wondered if she gets tired of that question!

✨ Rate