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Love Me Instead poster

Love Me Instead (2021)

Movie124minsRated MA15+

IMDb7.0/ 10CTV score6.8/ 10

Where to watch Love Me Instead in Australia

Streaming availability data from JustWatch.

About Love Me Instead

Accompanied by a ward, a prisoner travels to his hometown to reconnect with his daughter and make amends, but a tragic truth mars his journey.

Year
2021
Genres
Drama
Runtime
124mins
Director
Mehmet Ada Öztekin
Top cast
Sarp Akkaya, Aleyna Özgeçen, Ercan Kesal, Ushan Çakır, Songül Öden

What our critics think

Independent reviews from the Compare TV editorial team.

Review Team

★★★★★4/5

Love Me Instead, directed by Mehmet Ada Öztekin, is an introspective journey that examines the complex dynamics between a father and his daughter. The film's plot centres on a prisoner who returns home, accompanied by a ward, to mend his relationship with his estranged daughter. The emotional weight of the film is palpable, as it delves into themes of regret, redemption, and the struggle for forgiveness. The performances are commendable, with the lead actor delivering a heartfelt portrayal that captures the nuances of a man grappling with his past. Öztekin's direction is sensitive, allowing the story to unfold organically while maintaining a gripping pace. The cinematography beautifully complements the narrative, showcasing the stark contrasts between the protagonist's past and present. Overall, Love Me Instead is a thought-provoking film that resonates with anyone who has experienced the complexities of familial love.

Editor Team

★★★★★3/5

Love Me Instead takes viewers on a poignant yet sometimes predictable journey of a father's attempt to reconnect with his daughter after serving time in prison. While the film has its emotional moments, it occasionally falls into the trap of cliché storytelling. The central theme of redemption is powerful, but the execution can feel a bit heavy-handed at times. The performances, particularly from the lead, are heartfelt and genuine, which helps elevate the material. However, some scenes could benefit from tighter editing to maintain momentum. The cinematography captures the essence of the protagonist's hometown well, adding to the film's nostalgic tone. Despite its flaws, Love Me Instead manages to evoke a sense of empathy and reflection, making it a worthwhile watch for those interested in character-driven stories.

How viewers describe this

  • poignant
  • emotional
  • heartfelt
  • predictable
  • introspective
  • complex
  • genuine
  • heavy-handed
  • relatable
  • bittersweet
  • reflective
  • nostalgic

Streaming Charts

The JustWatch Streaming Charts are calculated by user activity from the last 24 hours.

Got a question about Love Me Instead?

Is Love Me Instead worth watching?

Yes, Love Me Instead is worth watching for its poignant exploration of familial relationships and redemption. The film's emotional depth and the performances of the cast create a compelling narrative that resonates with audiences.

What is Love Me Instead really about?

Love Me Instead follows a prisoner who, accompanied by a ward, returns to his hometown to reconnect with his estranged daughter. The journey is marred by tragic truths that challenge their relationship and the possibility of forgiveness.

Is Love Me Instead suitable for children?

Love Me Instead is not particularly suited for children due to its mature themes, including crime and emotional turmoil. It is advisable for viewers to consider the age and sensitivity of younger audiences before watching.

What happens at the end of Love Me Instead?

At the end of Love Me Instead, the protagonist faces the consequences of his past choices, leading to a bittersweet resolution with his daughter. The ending highlights the complexities of forgiveness and the struggle to rebuild trust.

Where can I watch Love Me Instead in Australia?

In Australia, Love Me Instead is available for streaming on various platforms. Check local services like Amazon Prime Video or Google Play for rental or purchase options.

What films are similar to Love Me Instead?

Films similar to Love Me Instead include The Pursuit of Happyness, Atonement, and The Father. These movies also explore themes of redemption, familial bonds, and the impact of past actions.

Is there a sequel to Love Me Instead?

As of now, there is no sequel to Love Me Instead. The film stands alone, focusing on the individual's journey of redemption without extending into further narratives.

Is Love Me Instead a true story?

Love Me Instead is not based on a specific true story but draws on universal themes of redemption and familial relationships that are relatable to many. The narrative feels authentic, reflecting real-life struggles.

Is Love Me Instead scary?

Love Me Instead is not a horror film and does not aim to scare its audience. It focuses more on emotional and psychological tension rather than traditional suspense or horror elements.