The Decision, Reelive

Mia
Mia

I’m not ready to leave yet.

Mia's Mother
Mia's Mother

There’s so much left to live for.

Mia
Mia

But what if I can’t go back? What if I don’t want to?

Mia's Mother
Mia's Mother

You have to choose, sweetie. Your life is waiting for you.

Mia
Mia

It’s so hard. I can’t imagine being without you guys.

Mia's Mother
Mia's Mother

But you have a life to live, Mia. We’ll always be there in your heart.

Mia
Mia

What if I let go and find myself lost forever?

Mia's Mother
Mia's Mother

You won’t be lost. You’ll carry us with you.

Mia
Mia

I need time… I don’t know if I can make this decision.

Mia's Mother
Mia's Mother

Take your time, but remember: living is a choice.

The Concert, Reelive

Adam
Adam

You realize you’re the most beautiful girl in the room, right?

Mia
Mia

And you’re the most charming guy in the audience.

Adam
Adam

Can I take you to dinner after this?

Mia
Mia

Are you serious? With how busy you are?

Adam
Adam

Yeah, I mean it. Music is great, but you’re what makes it special.

Mia
Mia

What if I say no?

Adam
Adam

Then I’ll just have to serenade you until you agree.

Mia
Mia

Okay, Mr. Rockstar. Let’s see what you’ve got.

Adam
Adam

You won’t regret it.

Mia
Mia

I better not.

Mia Hall

You don’t get to choose if you get hurt in this world, old man, but you do have some say in who hurts you. I like my choices.

Mia Hall

If I Stay, Reelive
Mia Hall

Sometimes you make choices in life and sometimes choices make you.

Mia Hall

If I Stay, Reelive
Mia Hall

It's always the ones who love you who hurt you the most.

Mia Hall

If I Stay, Reelive
Mia Hall

I can’t just be a girl who’s in love and nothing else. That’s not who I am.

Mia Hall

If I Stay, Reelive
Mia Hall

I can’t imagine my life without music.

Mia Hall

If I Stay, Reelive
Mia Hall

If I stay, I won’t want to go. But what if I don’t want to stay?

Mia Hall

If I Stay, Reelive
Mia Hall

I’m so happy I get to be with you.

Mia Hall

If I Stay, Reelive
Mia’s Grandmother

Sometimes, when you’re crying, it feels good to let it out.

Mia’s Grandmother

If I Stay, Reelive
Mia's Father

You don’t wanna live for a crazy reason.

Mia's Father

If I Stay, Reelive
Adam Wilde

Love is not a game. It’s real life.

Adam Wilde

If I Stay, Reelive
Mia Hall

If I could make it through this, I could make it through anything.

Mia Hall

If I Stay, Reelive
Mia Hall

Your heart doesn’t know what it wants until you tell it.

Mia Hall

If I Stay, Reelive
Mia Hall

It’s not about who you love. It’s about what you love.

Mia Hall

If I Stay, Reelive
Mia Hall

Letting go is a choice. It’s just a hard one.

Mia Hall

If I Stay, Reelive
Mia Hall

Music is the only thing I have that is true.

Mia Hall

If I Stay, Reelive
Mia Hall

You have to choose what you want to fight for.

Mia Hall

If I Stay, Reelive
Mia Hall

In the end, all you have is love.

Mia Hall

If I Stay, Reelive
Mia’s Mother

There’s a whole world out there waiting for you. Don’t be afraid to chase it.

Mia’s Mother

If I Stay, Reelive
Mia Hall

Life can change in a second. Make the choice to seize every moment.

Mia Hall

If I Stay, Reelive
Mia Hall

Sometimes the hardest part is letting go.

Mia Hall

If I Stay, Reelive
Mia Hall

There’s always tomorrow. But what if you don’t have to wait?

Mia Hall

If I Stay, Reelive
Mia Hall

You’re never truly alone. You have a choice.

Mia Hall

If I Stay, Reelive

Say Something

Say Something by A Great Big World and Christina Aguilera, Played during a pivotal emotional moment

Halo

Halo by Bethany Mota, Used during a significant relationship scene

Breathe

Breathe by Michelle Branch, Played during a reflective moment

The Night We Met

The Night We Met by Lord Huron, Heard during a romantic flashback

I Will Follow You into the Dark

I Will Follow You into the Dark by Death Cab for Cutie, Played during the climax of the film


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The Car Accident

In a tragic moment, Mia's family is hit by a car while driving. This horrific event occurs shortly after an uplifting family gathering, contrasting the joy of that day with the ensuing devastation. Mia is left in a coma, experiencing an out-of-body perspective as she observes the aftermath. The pivotal moment occurs when she sees her parents being taken away, and she desperately tries to wake up. This scene sets the stage for Mia's journey of choice between life and death. The aftermath and impact of this moment resonate throughout the film, shaping Mia's decisions. This moment evokes shock and heartbreak as viewers feel the sudden loss of life and the chaos that ensues. It underscores the theme of family, loss, and the fragility of life.

Context: This scene introduces the main tragedy of the story, making it a crucial turning point in Mia’s life.

Mia's First Performance

Before the accident, Mia performs for the first time with her band, showcasing her deep love for music. As she plays her cello, her passion resonates with the audience. The pivotal moment comes when Mia's talent shines, and she loses herself in the music, feeling truly alive. This scene highlights the bond with her best friend Kim, who supports her. This performance hints at Mia's dreams and aspirations, making the aftermath of her accident even more heartbreaking as she must confront those dreams in her coma. Viewers feel joy and pride as they witness Mia's passion and the joy music brings her. It emphasizes the theme of pursuing one's passion despite obstacles.

Context: Introducing Mia’s love for music, this scene sets up her character and dreams, making the tragedy of her accident feel more profound.

The Decision to Stay

As Mia lies in her hospital bed, she experiences a series of flashbacks that force her to confront her life choices and the key relationships around her. The pivotal moment occurs when Mia is faced with a choice: to let go and join her family in death or to fight for her life. This is visually represented by the stark contrast between her peaceful memories of her family and the harsh reality of the hospital. The aftermath of this scene shifts the narrative focus to Mia's internal struggle as she grapples with grief and the will to survive. It evokes feelings of despair and hope, leaving the audience torn between her desire to be with her family and her fight for life. It highlights the theme of choice in the face of loss.

Context: This moment is central to the film, as Mia’s decision drives the story forward and reflects her internal struggles.

Mia and Adam's First Kiss

During a spontaneous moment, Mia and Adam share their first kiss after a day spent enjoying each other's company. This tender scene is filled with youthful exuberance, showcasing the chemistry between them. The pivotal moment is when they lean in for the kiss, surrounded by the beauty of the world around them. The aftermath sees their relationship blossoming as they navigate their feelings and the challenges of young love. This scene evokes joy and excitement, highlighting the sweetness of first love. It's a moment that represents hope and connection amidst the unsurety of life’s challenges.

Context: This scene establishes the romantic arc of Mia and Adam's relationship, emphasizing the theme of love in times of turmoil.

Kim's Heartfelt Speech

In a deeply emotional moment, Kim visits Mia in the hospital and expresses her feelings about their friendship. She speaks about how Mia has always been the stronger one, and now it's time for Mia to fight. The pivotal moment comes when Kim breaks down while reminiscing about their shared memories, bringing the weight of their friendship to the forefront. This scene greatly impacts Mia, lending strength to her internal struggle. Viewers experience heartache and hope through Kim’s words, showcasing the bond of friendship and support. The scene emphasizes themes of loyalty and the importance of support during difficult times.

Context: This moment underscores the strength of friendship and motivates Mia's will to fight, tying back to the film’s themes of connection and resilience.

The Flashback to the Concert

Mia remembers attending a concert with her family, filled with laughter and love. This joyful moment contrasts sharply with her current reality in the hospital. The pivotal moment occurs when the music begins, and Mia is engulfed in memories of warmth and connection with her family. The aftermath highlights the stark contrast of joy and tragedy that colors her current state. Viewers are filled with nostalgia and longing, feeling the depth of family love and its profound loss. This scene captures the theme of the enduring bonds of family amidst adversity.

Context: It serves as a reminder of happier times, deepening the audience's understanding of Mia's pain and loss.

The Hospital Scene with the Doctors

Mia is in the hospital after the accident, surrounded by doctors discussing her condition. The scene captures the gravity of her situation, as she listens in anguish. The pivotal moment arises when the doctors state that the decision to keep her alive rests solely on her choice, bringing a harsh reality to Mia and viewers alike. This revelation forces Mia to confront her fate. In the aftermath, the scene lays a heavy emotional burden, as Mia realizes her struggle is not just physical but deeply emotional. Viewers feel a mix of fear and urgency, compelled by the stakes of her survival. It's a moment that encapsulates the theme of agency and the battle for life.

Context: This scene illustrates the life-and-death stakes Mia faces, central to the film's narrative arc.

Mia's Dream Sequence

Mia experiences a beautiful dream where she is reunited with her family, creating a sense of peace. This dream is filled with laughter and love, captivating the audience. The pivotal moment comes when Mia realizes this fantasy is just that—a dream—and has to confront her reality. The aftermath of this realization is profoundly impactful, forcing her to reflect on the stark difference between her dream and her waking life. Viewers feel a mix of warmth and sorrow, realizing the depths of Mia's grief and longing for connection. This scene emphasizes the theme of coping with loss and the power of dreams.

Context: This scene highlights Mia's emotional state and her desire for familial connection, reinforcing the film's themes of love and loss.

Mia's Grandfather's Visit

Mia's grandfather visits her in the hospital, sharing memories and his own grief over the loss of Mia's family. The vulnerability in his words brings tears to both Mia and the viewers. The pivotal moment occurs when he expresses his love for Mia and emphasizes the importance of her fighting to live. The aftermath of this visit strengthens Mia’s resolve, reminding her of the love that still exists. Viewers feel a profound sense of sadness and hope through this exchange. This scene reinforces the theme of familial love and the impact of grief across generations.

Context: It highlights the interconnectedness of love and loss, serving as a message of hope and perseverance.

The Scene with Adam in the Waiting Room

Adam sits in the hospital waiting room, overwhelmed with worry and frustration. He reflects on Mia's impact on his life and how much he misses her. The pivotal moment comes when Adam expresses his feelings out loud, line by line showing how deeply connected he is to Mia. The aftermath of this scene showcases his dedication to her, providing an emotional anchor in the narrative. Viewers share Adam's heartbreak and desperation, emphasizing how vital Mia is to him. This moment highlights the theme of love, longing, and the fight against despair.

Context: This scene showcases the deep bond between Mia and Adam, pivotal in showing how love can inspire resilience.

Mia's Awakening

In a moment of pure emotional intensity, Mia slowly begins to awaken from her coma. Her surroundings come into focus as she realizes she is alive, but also that her family is gone. The pivotal moment occurs when she hears Adam's voice, bringing her back to reality. The aftermath leaves Mia feeling lost and conflicted as she grapples with her new life without her family. Viewers experience a mix of relief and sadness, feeling Mia's joy at living tempered by the pain of her loss. This scene connects to themes of survival, grief, and the will to continue despite overwhelming loss.

Context: This moment marks Mia's transition from unconsciousness to consciousness, pivotal in shaping her character’s journey.

Mia's Therapy Session

Mia attends a therapy session to process her grief. The scene captures her emotional state, depicting her struggles with the aftereffects of her accident. The pivotal moment occurs when she opens up about her feelings of guilt and loss. The aftermath of this session reveals her path toward healing, as she begins to confront her emotions openly. Viewers feel empathy and compassion, understanding the complexities of grief. This scene emphasizes themes of recovery, mental health, and the importance of seeking help.

Context: It illustrates Mia’s journey of healing, reflecting the film’s emphasis on mental health and emotional processing.

The Final Decision

In a climactic moment, Mia must finally choose between life and death. She visualizes what her life could be like without her family but sees the love around her, especially from Adam. The pivotal moment is when she declares her choice to fight for life. The emotional aftermath of this moment shapes Mia’s future and establishes a sense of hope. Viewers are filled with tension but ultimately relief as Mia chooses to live. This decision resonates with the theme of resilience and the strength found in love and connection.

Context: This final choice embodies the central conflict of the film: the battle between despair and the will to choose life.

Mia's First Recital after Awakening

Mia participates in her first recital since waking up, demonstrating her strength and perseverance. The support she receives from Adam and her friends showcases her journey back into the world of music. The pivotal moment occurs when Mia plays flawlessly, channeling all her emotions into the music. The aftermath highlights her ability to connect deeply with her art, symbolizing her recovery. Viewers feel immense pride and joy, cheering for Mia's journey. This scene resonates with themes of healing, the power of art, and rebirth.

Context: This scene represents Mia's return to life and her passion, emphasizing the healing power of music.

Family Flashbacks

Mia remembers moments with her family, laughing and enjoying their time together. The pivotal moments are filled with warmth and love, but they quickly shift to sadness as she remembers their absence. The visuals contrast the beauty of family life with her current loneliness. The aftermath serves to deepen her grief and understanding of loss. Viewers are evoked by nostalgia and heartache, feeling the love that was lost. This scene connects strongly with themes of love, family, and the pain of loss.

Context: It highlights the importance of family and the lasting impact of their presence in Mia’s life.

Mia's Conversation with the Nurse

In a raw and emotional exchange, Mia talks with a nurse who shares her own story of loss. The nurse encourages Mia to embrace life and find joy again. The pivotal moment comes when Mia realizes that she is not alone in her suffering. The aftermath of this conversation expands Mia's perspective, motivating her to seek happiness. Viewers feel inspiration and camaraderie through shared grief. This scene emphasizes the theme of community and the importance of reaching out to others.

Context: It shows Mia understanding that healing takes time and support, reinforcing the theme of connection.

The Moment with Adam at the Cemetery

Mia visits her family's grave with Adam, bringing her grief to its peak. They talk about memories and how to move forward, making it a cathartic moment. The pivotal moment occurs when Mia shares her deepest fears about living without her family. The aftermath sees Mia finding comfort and support in Adam, reinforcing their bond. Viewers feel empathy and sadness, witnessing the raw reality of grief. This scene captures the themes of loss, love, and the process of healing.

Context: This moment crystallizes Mia's grief while also illustrating the strength found in companionship through recovery.

Mia's Last Conversation with Her Parents

In a poignant dream sequence, Mia speaks with her parents one last time. Each message they share is filled with love, encouragement, and reassurance. The pivotal moment happens as they tell her it's okay to let go and follow her own path. The aftermath is profound as Mia awakens with clarity on her path forward. Viewers feel tears welling up as it beautifully summarizes Mia's connection to her family. This scene is deeply significant in connecting the themes of love, closure, and moving on after loss.

Context: It serves as a farewell that helps Mia accept her family's passing, creating a sense of hope for the future.


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Casting Changes

The role of Mia Hall was originally offered to another actress before Chloe Grace Moretz was cast.

Why it matters: This last-minute change allowed Moretz to bring her unique interpretation to the character, enhancing the emotional depth and relatability in Mia's journey.

Real-Life Inspiration

The screenplay was adapted from Gayle Forman's novel, which was inspired by her own near-death experience.

Why it matters: This real-life connection added authenticity to the emotional struggles faced by Mia, making the story resonate more deeply with audiences.

Ad-libbed Scenes

Some of the most heartfelt moments in the film, particularly between Mia and her parents, were improvised by the actors during filming.

Why it matters: The spontaneity of these moments gave the film a genuine feel, creating a deeper bond between characters that viewers could sense.

Music is Central

The film features original music performed by various artists, crucial for capturing the emotional tone of Mia's journey.

Why it matters: Music not only underscores the narrative but also symbolizes Mia's connection to her past and her family's influence, becoming a pivotal storytelling element.

Filmed on Location

Many scenes were shot in Portland, Oregon, which serves as a backdrop for Mia's life, enhancing the film's authenticity.

Why it matters: The choice of location added depth to the setting, making Mia's connection to her environment more palpable and relatable to the audience.

Director's Vision

Director R.J. Cutler aimed to blend fantasy and reality to depict Mia's journey between life and death.

Why it matters: This artistic choice provided a unique visual representation of Mia's internal struggle, drawing viewers into her emotional and surreal experience.

Chloë Grace Moretz's Commitment

Moretz took cello lessons to authentically portray Mia as a musician.

Why it matters: Her dedication to learning the instrument allowed her to deliver more credible performances, enhancing the character's passion for music.

Emphasis on Flashbacks

The narrative heavily relies on flashbacks to reveal Mia's past and deepen her emotional stakes in the present.

Why it matters: This storytelling technique creates a richer character arc, allowing the audience to connect with Mia’s memories and appreciate her journey more profoundly.

The Hospital Scenes

To depict the hospital scenes realistically, the cast interacted with real medical professionals to understand the protocol and emotional weight of such an environment.

Why it matters: This research grounded the portrayal of Mia's trauma and hospital experience, making it resonate more authentically with audiences who have experienced similar situations.

Set Design

The design team intentionally used soft colors and lighting in Mia's bedroom to reflect her personality and youthfulness.

Why it matters: This attention to detail helped convey Mia's character traits visually, enhancing viewers' understanding of her background and emotional state.

Remaining True to the Source Material

The filmmakers prioritized remaining faithful to the original novel, including significant dialogues and scenes that fans cherished.

Why it matters: This respect for the source material built trust and appreciation among the novel's audience, drawing in viewers who adored the book.

Teenage Perspectives

The film's writing team, including screenwriter Shauna Cross, aimed to depict the teenage experience with authenticity and nuance.

Why it matters: This approach made Mia's character relatable to young audiences facing similar struggles, allowing for a deeper emotional connection.

The Role of the Parents

The characters of Mia's parents were developed with careful attention, providing a balance between humor and depth.

Why it matters: This duality allowed audiences to appreciate familial dynamics, enriching the story and helping viewers empathize with Mia's loss.

Auditory Cues

The sound design team created an immersive audio experience, incorporating both music and ambient sounds to reflect Mia's emotional landscape.

Why it matters: These auditory elements enhance viewers’ immersion in Mia's journey, allowing them to feel her emotions more intimately.

Symbolic Imagery

Visual motifs such as the recurring imagery of the cello symbolize Mia's connection to music and her family.

Why it matters: Such symbolism deepens the film's thematic richness, inviting audiences to explore the intersections of grief, hope, and identity.

Release Decisions

The film was strategically released in August, aiming to capture the end-of-summer audience.

Why it matters: This timing helped *If I Stay* reach a broader audience, potentially increasing its chances of box office success.

On-screen Chemistry

Chloë Grace Moretz and Jamie Blackley worked hard to develop their on-screen chemistry through improvisation and bonding sessions.

Why it matters: Their strong chemistry elevated the romantic storyline, making their relationship feel more authentic and emotionally engaging to viewers.

Visual Storytelling in Flashbacks

The use of lighter colors in flashbacks contrasted with darker tones in present-day scenes to signify shifts in Mia's emotional state.

Why it matters: This deliberate visual distinction helps audiences easily navigate Mia's experiences and trauma, underscoring the gravity of the present.

The Importance of Casting

Other notable actors were considered for the role of Adam, showcasing the film's competitive casting landscape.

Why it matters: Each actor brings a different flavor to the character, and ultimately Jamie Blackley's portrayal helped define the narrative arc of Mia's love story.

Behind the Music

Music supervisor Alex Patsavas carefully curated a soundtrack that resonates with the film's themes of love and loss.

Why it matters: The soundtrack became an integral part of the film, resonating with audiences and contributing to the movie’s emotional weight.

Mia's Character Development

The filmmakers deliberately aimed for Mia’s character to gradually evolve from passive to active in her decision-making.

Why it matters: This growth reflects the universal theme of empowerment, allowing viewers to connect with her struggle for identity during challenging times.

Emotional Support

Chloë Grace Moretz sought guidance from therapists to portray Mia’s emotional journey authentically.

Why it matters: Her commitment to understanding the psychological effects of trauma added depth to her performance, resulting in a poignant depiction of grief.

Accurate Portrayal of Grief

The filmmakers consulted mental health professionals to portray Mia’s state of mind accurately after her accident.

Why it matters: This diligence ensured that the film handled the sensitive topic of grief with care, promoting a deeper understanding among viewers.

Influence of the Novel

Gayle Forman's presence on set provided direct insights into Mia's character and motivations.

Why it matters: Having the author involved ensured that the core of Mia’s story remained intact, which enriched the storytelling process and honored the original vision.


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