Me Before You (2016) Ending Explained
TL;DR:
Me Before You ends with Will Traynor, a quadriplegic man, choosing to undergo assisted suicide in Switzerland despite his growing love for Louisa Clark, his caretaker. Louisa initially tries to change his mind but ultimately supports his decision, realizing she can't deny him autonomy over his life. The film concludes with Louisa reading a heartfelt letter from Will in Paris, using the money he left her to pursue her dreams, symbolizing her personal growth and their enduring emotional connection.
Detailed Explanation of the Ending
The ending of Me Before You is emotionally charged and bittersweet, centering on Will's final decision to end his life through euthanasia. Despite Louisa's relentless efforts to show him that life is still worth living, Will remains steadfast in his choice, emphasizing that his quality of life-pain, dependence, and loss of dignity-is unbearable. The climax occurs when Louisa, devastated, travels to Switzerland with Will and his parents to be with him in his final moments. This scene underscores the complexity of love-sometimes, loving someone means respecting their choices, even when they are heartbreaking.
The final moments between Will and Louisa are tender and poignant. They share a quiet, intimate goodbye, filled with unspoken emotions. After his passing, Louisa receives a letter from Will, revealing that he left her a substantial inheritance to ensure she can live life to the fullest. The film ends with Louisa sitting at a Parisian café, wearing the quirky tights Will loved, reading his letter. The closing scene symbolizes her newfound independence and the lasting impact Will had on her life. It's a testament to how love can transform a person, even in the face of loss.
Unresolved Questions & Possible Answers
- Could Will have changed his mind if Louisa had fought harder?
- Possible Answer: Unlikely. Will's decision was deeply rooted in his loss of autonomy and physical suffering, not just emotional despair.
- Did Louisa truly accept Will's choice, or did she just give up?
- Possible Answer: She accepted it out of love, realizing that forcing him to live would be selfish.
- What happens to Louisa after the movie ends?
- Possible Answer: The book sequel (After You) suggests she struggles but eventually finds new purpose, though the film leaves it open-ended.
Personal Opinion on the Ending & Film
The ending of Me Before You is heartbreaking yet beautifully executed. It challenges viewers to grapple with difficult questions about autonomy, love, and sacrifice. While some may argue that the film romanticizes euthanasia, it ultimately portrays Will's decision with nuance-his suffering is palpable, and his choice is framed as an act of agency rather than despair. Emilia Clarke and Sam Claflin's performances make the emotional weight feel authentic. Personally, I appreciate that the story doesn't take the easy way out with a miraculous recovery or sudden change of heart. Instead, it stays true to its themes, leaving a lasting emotional impact.
The film's bittersweet resolution ensures that while Will's story ends, Louisa's journey of self-discovery continues. It's a reminder that love doesn't always mean a happy ending-sometimes, it's about growth, acceptance, and carrying someone's memory forward. The ending lingers, making Me Before You more than just a tearjerker but a thought-provoking exploration of life's hardest choices.