Love and Light

An ecstatic crowd gathered around the stage that greeted Addison Timlin, Harrison Gilbertson, and Lauren Kate—the stars of the first ever Fallen movie premiere. Lauren Kate, author of the New York Times bestselling Fallen series, describes her Philippine reception as something that she wants to “bottle up.”

Jeremy Irvine as Daniel Grigori and Addison Timlin as Lucinda ‘Luce’ Price (Manila Bulletin)

Fallen tells the story of Lucinda “Luce” Price, a girl who sees shadows that bring death and destruction along with them. When accused for a crime of the shadows, Luce (portrayed by Addison Timlin of the film Stand Up Guys) is sent to Sword and Cross reform school for her senior year. In the eerie and gothic campus of Sword and Cross, she meets the troublesome Cam Briel (Harrison Gilbertson of Need for Speed) and the mysterious Daniel Grigori (Jeremy Irvine of War Horse). She is inexplicably drawn to Daniel and how she can’t shake off the feeling that they had met before. Despite rude encounters and awkward conversations, Luce is determined to find out more about Daniel and how he ties into her past.

Filled with romance, heartbreak, and friendships, Fallen is a film that gives a fresh perspective on falling in love with someone that you can’t have. The poignant storytelling and beautiful scenery (the movie was filmed in stunning Budapest, the capital and largest city of Hungary) compliment the plot perfectly.

Cameron “Cam” Briel played by Harrison Gilbertson with Luce Price in the Sword and Cross campus (Manila Bulletin)

But besides matters of the heart, the friendships in the movie are just as meaningful. When Luce befriends Penn (Lola Kirke of Gone Girl), they hit it off and lean on each other during tough times. Penn helps Luce process the tragic event that led her to Stone and Cross, while supporting Luce throughout her journey to understand her odd visions and her past. Their friendship shines light and humor on the film through Penn and Luce’s banter and witty remarks.

The writer with Lauren Kate, author of the book Fallen (Manila Bulletin)

As an audience member who has never read the book, the Fallen film makes me want to pick it up right away. The hardcore fans that watched the premiere squealed in delight in particular scenes, making me want to read the novel to find out if it was a faithful adaptation.

The movie’s plot twists and turns make for for an exciting, mystical, and interesting ride for moviegoers. Religion and beliefs tie in to the movie as well, as one of the characters chooses love above all else.

Fallen teaches you to stand by your beliefs and dreams—no matter how crazy they may seem. All her life Luce has been called “crazy,” only to find out that the shadows and visions that she sees are completely real. Who knows, maybe with the right friend who supports and brings out the light in you, you’ll find the Penn to your Luce, too. Although I don’t have visions and shadows like Luce, she’s taught me that no matter how outlandish and bizarre your dreams or beliefs are, staying true to yourself is the most important thing that you can do.

Watch Fallen in Ayala Cinemas near you.

Repost: Manila Bulletin (http://lifestyle.mb.com.ph/2016/11/11/love-and-light/)