On Friday, August 2, 2014, the hit movie, “If I Stay,” debuted in theaters throughout the nation. Upon release, crowds gathered to watch the sentimental romance that earned a whopping $40 million in the first two and a half weeks of sale.

In correspondence with the 2009 publication of the novel, “If I Stay,” by Gayle Forman, the storyline is able to capture the heart of anyone regardless of age or gender. The plot is centered on 17-year-old Mia Hall (played by actress Chloë Grace Moretz) who has musical aspirations that she is determined to reach. Although she underestimates her own talent, she is envied by fellow classmate Adam Wilde who is played by actor Jamie Blackley. Each day, he watches her privately play her cello and begins to fall for her graceful nature.

One day, Adam musters up the courage to ask Mia on a date by offering her tickets to see a cellist in their area. The two share an appreciation of music, as Adam is an up-and-coming rock singer who has gotten himself numerous local gigs. They end up going to the symphony and sharing their first kiss afterwards. Adam finds common ground with Mia’s parents, Kat and Denny (played by Mireille Enos and Joshua Leonard), who are post-rockers from their younger years.

The relationship blossoms and a special connection forms between the two teens. Mia begins to experience the hardships of dating an on-the-go emerging artist and the two start disputing over each other’s future plans. While Mia intends on applying to Julliard in New York, Adam insists on staying in the community and continuing to increase his band’s popularity. He expresses his disapproval of her decision due to his inseparable love for her, yet she auditions anyway.

Soon after, Mia and her family stay home on a weekday when a snowstorm blows through and school is called off for the day. They decide to take a trip to their grandparents’ farm when their car is devastatingly hit by an oncoming truck. Paramedics rush to the scene, and soon Mia finds herself in an out-of-body experience where she is overlooking the situation without being able to communicate. Her life prior to the accident is presented to viewers and her sweet and talented attributes show throughout. Mia must decide whether or not she will fight to live, even after her family members meet an unfortunate fate. Her love for Adam has become potent and she has to either choose him or a peaceful death.

The film is constantly interesting, intriguing, and passionate. Tears are inevitable as the movie successfully displays the importance of family, friends, and love. The sensational emotions that the actors portray are communicated perfectly to spectators. “If I Stay,” is definitely a great movie to see with friends or significant others; it reminds everybody of how fragile and delicate human life is. Leaving the movie, audiences have a newly-found appreciation for those closest to them. It is hands-down one of the best movies of the year and would be recommended for all to see.