Netflix is currently streaming a divisive thriller that didn't exactly win over the critics on its first outing but has since been championed by numerous film lovers as a must-watch. Released in 2014, this suspenseful drama stars household names Nicole Kidman and Colin Firth in top form, delivering a story full of shocking twists you won't see coming. Despite its mediocre 36 percent rating on Rotten Tomatoes, Before I Go to Sleep boasts a strong following among viewers who appreciate a good twisty narrative.
The movie predates the surge of gripping thriller miniseries from creatives like Harlan Coben and Ryan Murphy and is tipped to be a hit with fans of recent Netflix offerings such as Missing You or The Perfect Couple. Kidman portrays Christine Lucas, who lives with amnesia after a brutal attack and must face her husband Ben, played by Firth, as a stranger each morning. With the advice of her doctor, played by Mark Strong, she begins recording a video diary to monitor her memory, only to discover chilling secrets that make her doubt everything she knows.
In spite of initial negative press, Before I Go to Sleep has developed an enthusiastic fan base over time, earning high praise such as a five-star Google review posted just last week: "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", reports the Express.
"If you like thrillers, you should watch this movie. It's exciting and will keep you guessing.". "I cried through most of the film and the rest I was gasping," another positive review said. "I didn't expect the ending at all. Really recommend this, it's worth watching.". Someone else said: "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.".
Over on Letterboxd, the film also has a substantial crop of fans, including one who says: "It's films like this that make watching all the bad ones worthwhile. "Before I Go To Sleep is a superb edge of your seat thriller with a major twist that will blow your mind. "Beautifully shot with a brilliant cast, it'll have your heart racing from start to finish. Definitely a must see for 2014.". Another compared it to Memento, writing: "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 lacklustre, ludicrous copycat (especially after seeing the photos-taped-on-wall thing), but as the show progressed I found myself getting more and more intrigued - and the story held up well all the way to the end.". Got a free evening and already finished Apple Cider Vinegar? Before I Go to Sleep could be set to become your new favourite thriller.
