by Emilia Clarke, known for her iconic role as Daenerys Targaryen in “Game of Thrones,” has graced the silver screen in various roles that showcase her talent and versatility. While some of her movies have achieved box office success, there are a few hidden gems that, in the eyes of this fan, deserved more attention. In this exploration, we will delve into three Emilia Clarke movies that, despite their merits, didn’t quite roar as loudly at the box office as they should have.
1. Me Before You (2016): A Love Story with Room for Growth
“Me Before You,” based on Jojo Moyes’ bestselling novel, is a romantic drama that garnered over $200 million worldwide. While its financial success is undeniable, the film faced criticism for its melodramatic plot and portrayal of disability. With a tighter script and more nuanced character development, “Me Before You” had the potential to resonate even deeper with audiences and possibly secure awards recognition. The chemistry between Emilia Clarke and Sam Claflin was palpable, and a few adjustments could have elevated the film to a higher cinematic echelon.
Possible Improvements:
- Enhance character development to provide a more profound understanding of the protagonists.
- Address criticisms regarding the portrayal of disability with sensitivity and authenticity.
- Consider refining the narrative to balance emotion with a more realistic approach.
2. Terminator Genisys (2015): A Reboot That Could Have Risen
“Terminator Genisys” attempted to revitalize the iconic Terminator franchise with action, suspense, and time travel. Despite having the ingredients for a blockbuster, the film underperformed at the box office, possibly due to a confusing narrative and a departure from the franchise’s dark tone. A more streamlined story and a stronger connection to the original films could have made “Terminator Genisys” a critical and commercial darling, solidifying Emilia Clarke’s place in the sci-fi genre.
Possible Improvements:
- Simplify the narrative to make the time-travel elements more accessible to a wider audience.
- Embrace the dark and gritty tone synonymous with the original Terminator films.
- Strengthen connections to the franchise’s legacy to appeal to both new and existing fans.
3. Last Christmas (2019): A Festive Tale in Need of Originality
“Last Christmas,” a holiday romantic comedy inspired by the Wham! song, had a charming cast and a festive setting. However, it received mixed reviews for its predictable plot and underdeveloped characters. A touch more originality in the story and a deeper exploration of the characters’ relationships could have transformed “Last Christmas” into a heartwarming holiday classic, joining the ranks of beloved seasonal films.
Possible Improvements:
- Inject more original elements into the plot to surprise and engage audiences.
- Develop characters with greater complexity and depth, allowing for stronger emotional connections.
- Explore the relationships between characters more profoundly to enhance the film’s emotional impact.
Acknowledging Other Hidden Gems: A Wider Perspective
While these three films stand out as ones that might have deserved more attention, Emilia Clarke’s filmography is rich with other hidden gems. “Voice from the Stone” (2017) showcases Clarke’s talent in a psychological thriller, “Spike Island” (2012) offers a feel-good British coming-of-age story, and “Murder Manual” (2015) features Clarke in a surprisingly funny role within a dark comedy setting.
Conclusion: Appreciating the Unseen Brilliance
In the world of cinema, box office success doesn’t always reflect a film’s true quality. Emilia Clarke’s performances in these movies, despite falling short of blockbuster status, should be appreciated for the talents she brought to each role. As fans, let’s explore and celebrate the breadth of Emilia Clarke’s filmography, recognizing the hidden brilliance beyond the Dragon’s Roar and appreciating the Box Office Whisper of these cinematic treasures.
