Midnight Sun (2018), directed by Scott Speer and written by Eric Kirsten, is a romantic drama that captivates with its heartfelt portrayal of love, sacrifice, and the challenges of living with a rare condition. The film is an American remake of the 2006 Japanese film A Song to the Sun and stars Bella Thorne, Patrick Schwarzenegger, and Rob Riggle. Set in a small town, the story follows Katie Price (Bella Thorne), a young woman suffering from a rare condition known as xeroderma pigmentosum (XP), which makes her extremely sensitive to sunlight, limiting her to a nocturnal life.

Katie’s life is confined to her home during the day, but when night falls, she ventures out into the world, where she meets Charlie (Patrick Schwarzenegger), a charming young man who unknowingly becomes her love interest. Their relationship begins innocently as they bond over shared experiences, but Katie’s condition remains a looming secret, one that could potentially destroy the happiness she has found. The film’s exploration of their budding romance is at once tender and tragic, as the characters must navigate their feelings while confronting the inevitable challenges that Katie’s illness brings.

The central theme of Midnight Sun revolves around the tension between living life to the fullest and the limitations imposed by Katie’s condition. Her desire to experience life like everyone else, to go outside in the sun and to enjoy a normal relationship, is juxtaposed with the constant threat of her health deteriorating from exposure to sunlight. Katie’s internal struggle is both heartbreaking and relatable, and Bella Thorne’s performance brings emotional depth to her character, portraying a young woman caught between the joy of love and the reality of her condition.

Charlie, played by Patrick Schwarzenegger, is a supportive yet increasingly conflicted character. Initially unaware of Katie’s condition, he falls for her sweet and adventurous spirit. However, as their relationship deepens, he is faced with the painful realization that their love story is not as simple as it seems. His dedication to Katie and his willingness to support her despite the risks reflects the depth of his character, and Schwarzenegger delivers a nuanced performance that balances both the light-hearted and serious aspects of his role.

The film’s cinematography effectively captures the contrasting worlds in which Katie and Charlie exist. The nighttime scenes, where Katie is free to live her life, are beautifully shot, with a dreamy quality that emphasizes the sense of freedom and possibility. The daytime scenes, however, are stark and isolating, symbolizing Katie’s restriction and the limitations of her condition. This visual contrast mirrors the emotional highs and lows that the characters experience as they navigate their relationship.

In conclusion, Midnight Sun is a poignant and emotional film that explores the complexities of love, illness, and the human desire to live life fully despite its limitations. With strong performances from Bella Thorne and Patrick Schwarzenegger, the film resonates with viewers on a deeply emotional level. While the premise may seem simple, the film’s exploration of sacrifice, hope, and the power of love makes it a moving and unforgettable experience. Midnight Sun ultimately reminds us of the importance of cherishing the time we have and the people we love, even in the face of adversity.