★★★★
“You’ll write about this, won’t you?” These words stayed on my mind as the film finished, I was still basking in the emotional impact of Lie With Me. We’re huge fans of the book here at Queerly HQ, so we hoped the film adaptation would be faithful to this. To my delight, it surpassed my expectations and delivered a near-perfect portrayal of the original story.
Lie With Me stays true to the essence of the book, thanks to its impeccable casting. The characters came to life just as I had imagined them while reading. The film tells the story with compassion and care, presenting a compelling drama that is both heartbreakingly raw and heartwarming.
While the film introduces a few changes and additional details, they seamlessly blend with the narrative, enhancing the overall experience. The portrayal of young queer love between two boys, set in the 80s is fantastic to see on screen. Jérémy Gillet and Julien De Saint Jean deliver remarkable performances that leave you yearning for more of their talent in future projects – I can’t wait to follow what they do next.
The film masterfully intertwines two time periods, showcasing the profound impact of past choices on present lives. Guillaume de Tonquédec and Victor Belmondo deliver gut-wrenching performances, capturing the weight of regret and shame. The cinematography is stunning, capturing breathtaking landscapes and locations, complemented by a haunting score that intensifies the emotional depth of the story.
The film takes its time to build up the emotional impact, but when it hits, it hits hard. It skillfully weaves flashbacks and recollections into poignant confrontations with reality, delving into years of regret and shame. The likable characters add depth and relatability to the narrative.
Lie With Me successfully merges two compelling stories—the aging author’s journey of reconciliation with his past and the young gay teens forced to conceal their love—into a painful yet cathartic trip down memory lane. It is a must-see for fans of the book and anyone seeking a poignant exploration of love, regret, and self-discovery.
If you’re in search of a deeply moving and thought-provoking cinematic experience, Lie With Me is a must-watch.
Lie with me is a film by Olivier Peyon starring Guillaume De Tonquédec, Victor Belmondo, Jérémy Gillet and Julien De Saint Jean – based on the book, Arrête avec tes mensonges, by Phillippe Besson. UK & Ireland theatrical release date 18th August 2023, Lie with Me is also available to buy and rent at home now.
