IF I STAY

Life changes in an instant for young Mia Hall after a car accident puts her in a coma. During an out-of-body experience, she must decide whether to wake up and live a life far different than she had imagined. — IMDB

Wasn’t expecting much of this young adult tear-jerker – but I ended up quite enjoying it. Capitalising on the contemporary fascination with near death experiences (NDE). The story is clichéd and emotionally manipulative, but slick and well made. Some people have complained about the flashback approach, but I thought it was effective. Chloë Grace Moretz (Kick-Ass) has come a long way and she shows a good deal of maturity in the lead role. There are also some good messages about love, friendship, sacrifice for others, and relationships. Not bad.

***1/2