Synopsis
An American girl, sent to the English countryside to stay with relatives, finds love and purpose while fighting for her survival as war envelops the world around her.
Your Movie Library
Cast
- Saoirse RonanDaisy Ryback
- George MacKayEddie
- Tom HollandIsaac
- Harley BirdPiper
- Danny McEvoyJoe
- Anna ChancellorAunt Penn
- Corey JohnsonConsular Official
- Darren MorfittSergeant
- Sabrina DickensGuerilla Soldier Girlfriend
- Stella GonetMrs. McEvoy
- 90
Village Voice
Tender, humane, and searing, How I Live Now stands as something all too rare: a movie about young people that young people may love — but not one that lies to them, and not one built for them alone. - 75
The Playlist
Macdonald’s unique direction and Ronan’s jittery performance makes the film a worthy watch - 70
Variety
Wisely sticks to its protagonist’s p.o.v. while avoiding a longer view of the calamitous events around her, making up in emotional immediacy what it lacks in broad dramatic sweep. - 60
The Guardian
A gooey love story is pitted against the end of the world. No wonder the romance comes up wanting. - 60
Empire
Macdonald's film is a noble stab at bringing Meg Rosoff's YA novel to the screen, which sees Ronan in typically watchable form. - 60
Time Out London
Kevin Macdonald’s slightly drab adaptation of Meg Rosoff’s popular teen novel would be nothing without Saoirse Ronan. - 60
Total Film
An Arab Spring-y allegory with kissing cousins and a divine countryside setting, Kevin Macdonald’s fourth narrative film is an awkward oddity, as uncomfortable in its own skin as its protagonist. - 50
Film.com
For every poignant moment there’s a gaudy dream sequence, wretched internal monologue, ham-fisted zoom or an exchange of dialogue sorely lacking nuance.