Before I Go to Sleep, currently streaming on Netflix, has defied its rocky beginnings to become a cult favorite among thriller enthusiasts. Released back in 2014, this perplexing drama stars Nicole Kidman and Colin Firth, both known for their standout performances, juxtaposed against a storyline riddled with surprises and sharp twists.
Initially met with lukewarm responses, Before I Go to Sleep holds an unflattering 36 percent rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Yet, many viewers have turned the tides by championing the film, appreciating its psychological depth and suspenseful fabric. This film, based on S.J. Watson's novel, delves deep as it explores Christine Lucas, played by Kidman, who suffers from amnesia after surviving a brutal attack.
Kidman's character is forced to relearn everything about her daily life, including her husband Ben, portrayed by Colin Firth, as memories slip through her fingers. Aiding her struggle is her doctor, played by Mark Strong, who advises her to maintain a video diary, allowing her to catalog the fragments of her reality. This diary becomes her lifeline, enabling her to piece together her previous life, but also leads her down chilling paths of mystery.
Despite its initial hesitance from critics, the film has built up considerable traction among audiences. A recent five-star review highlighted how engaging it is: "I loved this movie! It grabbed my attention from the start and kept me on the edge of my seat. It’s one of the best thrillers I've seen. The movie was full of surprises and didn’t go as I expected. It made me cry, but the happy ending made me feel good," as reported by the Express.
Additional feedback has echoed similar sentiments. One viewer recounted, "I cried through most of the film and the rest I was gasping. I didn't expect the ending at all. Really recommend this; it's worth watching."
Such personal testimonies aren't isolated. Many viewers have noted the film’s comparison to “Memento,” with one saying, "Nicole Kidman and Colin Firth are sensational in this psycho drama very reminiscent of Memento. This story of a woman with amnesia moves very quickly. A lot of plot twists and great cast."
On platforms like Letterboxd, fans have been vocal about how the film surpasses their expectations. A user shared, "Before I Go To Sleep is a superb edge of your seat thriller with a major twist. Beautifully shot with a brilliant cast, it’ll have your heart racing from start to finish. Definitely a must-see for 2014." Another echoing this thought stated, "This did for me what Memento failed to do - make me care. At first, I scoffed and thought Before I Go To Sleep would be a lackluster, ludicrous copycat, but as the show progressed, I found myself getting more and more intrigued."
Despite its rollercoaster evolution from box office skeptic to beloved thriller classic, the film finds itself well-suited for the modern audience, especially those who enjoy psychological dramas. It's said to resonate with even more recent Netflix successes such as "Missing You" or "The Perfect Couple."
Good news for those interested: Before I Go To Sleep is not limited to Netflix. It’s also available on platforms like BBC iPlayer, ITVX, and for subscribers on Prime Video. This wide availability makes it easy for viewers to discover, or rewatch, this gripping thriller.
Perhaps it’s time for movie lovers to check out Before I Go to Sleep, as it may just eclipse those other popular thrillers on your lists. It might offer the suspenseful twists and emotional pull you've been after, hence providing not just thrills but also heartfelt engagement.
Before I Go to Sleep proves it’s more than just another thriller—it’s about finding oneself within the chaos of lost memories, long gone connections, and hidden truths. With Kidman and Firth leading the charge, the film crafts its narrative with aplomb, ensuring its place as a noteworthy contender among thrillers on Netflix.