Tyler Hawkins (Robert Pattinson) is a part-time college student dwelling on the fallout of his older brother’s suicide and struggling against the effect that tragedy has had on his family’s relationships. After a drunken bar fight and arrest, he is manhandled by a cop (Chris Cooper). Tyler’s best friend Aidan (Tate Ellington) finds out the cop’s daughter (Emilie de Ravin) goes to their college and convinces him to date her for payback. They truly fall in love, however, and Tyler’s life begins to improve, though not without setbacks. Can he truly learn to live like his life matters?

CRITIQUE

For both the studio Summit Entertainment and the actor Robert Pattinson, the film versions of the phenomenally popular Twilight saga of young adult books proved to be the entrance into worldwide recognition and success. It didn’t take long and it isn’t a surprise that the actor and studio would join forces again on another film. Remember Me is solidly dramatic and romantic, drawing on an excellent script for good performances and strong direction.

Without giving away too many details or any of the unforgettable ending, the film takes an interesting avenue in its narrative, placing the story in the same time frame as that of a national tragedy. The positive aspect here is the tragedy isn’t its focus, but instead is only used as a plot point or backdrop for a romantic family drama. The relationship Tyler repairs with his father and the one he forms with Ally are the main concerns of the script, and they are developed quite well.

Will Fetters’ script is blessed with mostly intelligent and accessible dialogue. For example, I liked the exchange between the two lovers during their first conversation when Ally tells Tyler her name is Anonymous and he shoots back with, “Is that Greek?” Further, the loud confrontation between Tyler and his dad (played by Pierce Brosnan) avoids melodrama and is simply emotional. Also worth mentioning is Tyler’s sweet relationship with his little sister Caroline (Ruby Jerins).

The actors jump into the emotion of the script enthusiastically. Robert Pattinson slyly plays for subtlety in a successful attempt to distance himself from Edward Cullen. Emilie De Ravin does well, too, though during several moments it shows her struggle with the American accent. The veteran actors here are all a treat – Chris Cooper is always amazing, Pierce Brosnan is perfectly cast, and it’s great to see Lena Olin as Tyler’s mom. I also have to mention the main source of comic relief here, a fresh face I hope we see more: Tate Ellington. As Aidan, he is funny but also a good foil for Pattinson’s brooding.

Remember Me is effectively emotional in performance, direction, and especially the wonderful script.

THE VIDEO

Remember Me is presented in 1.78:1 anamorphic widescreen. The transfer here is near flawless. Picture, color--it all looks as it should.

THE AUDIO

Remember Me is presented in English Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround and it sounds exactly like it should—dialogue and music is crystal clear. The rear speakers are active from time to time. There is also a Spanish 5.1 dub track, plus English and Spanish subtitles.

THE EXTRAS

Audio Commentary by Director Allen Coulter: He reveals a lot of tidbits of interest, talking a lot about the music on the soundtrack and things like lighting and editing. One of the most interesting reveals is the fact that they edited out instances when de Ravin started sentences with “Um” to make Ally feel more confident.

Audio Commentary by producer Nick Osborne, Robert Pattinson, Emilie de Ravin and Ruby Jerins: They begin with a bit about how the title changed from “Memoirs” in the script phase to “Remember Me.” Their discussion focuses more on the production design and locations than you might expect, and mention is made here briefly of the paparazzi problem this production faced due to Pattinson’s presence.

Making-of Featurette: This mostly EPK-style look is filled with the usual interviews and film clips, but it is still worth a watch. The bit devoted to praising Pattinson feels a bit long but most of the discussion is interesting enough. The gushing over Fetters’ script is not over the top at all, but there definitely could have been more discussion about the film’s artistic elements.

FINAL THOUGHTS

The direction, performances, and, most of all, the script of Remember Me deftly crafts an emotional narrative. The stunning climactic ending will stick with you long after the credits end. There could have been a much wider array of extras on this disc, but those included are decent. Remember Me is recommended for those who aren’t interested in Twilight and may be wary of watching a film starring Robert Pattinson. This film is a solid drama that should entertain most.