Me Before You is a 2016 movie directed by Thea Sharrock based upon a book by Jojo Moyes that tells a dramatic story between a man stuck in a wheelchair and a young, handsome woman hired to take care of him. At first, the two do not seem eye to eye, but after they find a soft spot for each other, a romance ensues.
With Emilia Clarke in the role of Louisa and Sam Claflin in the role of WIll, this movie takes us to beautiful spots as well as touches on topics like disability, love, relationships in adversity, and mental health.
Today, I’m not going to cover the plot of this movie. Instead, I want to focus on the filming locations that, in their own way, serve as protagonists and the backdrop for this tearjerker of a movie.
Me Before You Filming Locations
Me Before You was filmed in three different countries: The United Kingdom is where most of the story and the scenes take place, but the cast and crew also moved to Spain’s Balearic Islands, as well as to Paris, France, the City of Light to capture some of the scenes that make up this romantic drama.
Mallorca, Spain
The scenes shot at the resort portrayed in the movie are filmed at the prestigious Barceló Formentor Hotel, located in Puerto de Pollensa in Mallorca. Mallorca is one of the Balearic Islands of the Kingdom of Spain in the Mediterranean Sea. It is one of the top spots for vacationing in the Mediterranean and one of the favorite locations for Royal Family members from different nations.
In Mallorca’s seafronts and sandy beaches, we see how the filmmakers chose to offer the viewers a sense of freedom and escapism, allowing Louisa to break free from her sheltered life and giving Will a chance to experience life beyond his wheelchair. The sweeping panoramic shots of the island paint a contrasting image of Will’s inherent confinement as his precious moments of happiness shine through.
Pembroke Castle, United Kingdom.
One of the most memorable locations in “Me Before You” is the picturesque Pembroke Castle, situated in Pembrokeshire, Wales, UK. The cinematography in the scenes shot at Pembroke Castle exposes the visual contrast between the characters – Louisa’s bright outfits set against the darker, more muted tones of the castle – subtly hinting at her positive influence on Will’s life.
Representing the fictional Stortford Castle, the seat of the Traynor family’s ancestral estate, Pembroke Castle instantly immerses the audience into the sophisticated world of the wealthy. This historic castle features massive walls and majestic towers, portrayed as too uptight and gloomy, in the movie serves as the perfect backdrop to make it contrast with the brightly colorful and free spirit of Louisa Clark, played by Emilia Clarke.
The castle’s dimensions, that sense of enormity also amplifies the sense of isolation felt by Will, as his disability confines him to his room and to a wheelchair, accentuating the difference between his past life of adventure and his current life within the castle’s confines.
The castle’s courtyard and gardens also serve as a vital backdrop to some of the movie’s most heartwarming and intimate scenes between Louisa and Will. For instance, the lavishly decorated corridor where they attend a classical music concert introduces a soothing ambiance and the staging for both characters to connect on a deeper level.
Surrey, England
The film then transports us to another striking location – Sandown Park Racecourse in Surrey, England, UK. As Louisa attempts to integrate Will back into the world of outdoor sports, the racecourse serves as the host of an important character growth moment for Louisa.
Although the race itself is lighthearted, it allows Will to watch Louisa evolve from an anxious and inexperienced attendee to an empowered and knowledgeable bettor. The cinematography perfectly captures the clamor and excitement of the races, enhancing the feeling of immersion and creating a vivid and vibrant atmosphere for both characters and viewers.
Paris, France
There’s a scene at the terrace filmed in the City of Light that also gives way to further character development in this movie. But that’s about it when it comes to the City of Lights.
“Me Before You” takes its audience on an extraordinary cinematic voyage to some of the world’s most stunning locations. From the grandeur of Pembroke Castle to the wildflower fields and beachfront, these locations are integral to the movie’s narrative and powerful themes.
Whether it is watching Will experience life anew in Mallorca or witnessing Louisa’s transformation at the racecourse – these moments serve as a reminder of how characters and settings can combine to create an unforgettable cinematic experience.
With its breathtaking visuals, heart-warming story, and powerful characters, “Me Before You” is sure to be remembered as one of the most memorable romantic dramas in recent years.
