Imagine visiting your cousins in the countryside, only to be greeted by war of mass proportions. This is the premise of the film “How I Live Now.” It presents a breathtaking perspective on the impact of war through the eyes of the younger generation. Truly, “How I Live Now” is an eye-opening film.
The film centers around a teenage girl named Daisy and her three cousins in London. At first, the viewer is shown a beautiful, nature-filled summer, complete with outings to the lake and sunbathing. However, there is a twist in the form of landscape shots that allude to the brutal war ahead. Soon, the picturesque setting turns to one of horror and ash-filled cottages. These scenes emphasize the poignancy of the war.
The director, Kevin Macdonald, is known for his work on political and post-apocalyptic films such as “One Day in September” and “State of Play.” His films resonate with many, especially those familiar with the rural natural beauty of England.
With the war, things change. Daisy goes from being a stubborn, anxious, rule-following teenager to a brave, survival-driven, older sister. She takes on this role in her relationship with Piper, one of her cousins. The war separates the tight-knit group of cousins, who now have to find their way back home.
This focus on the youth is relevant in the current context of international conflict, most notably the Israel–Hamas and Russia-Ukraine War, respectively. Within the affected countries, children have been faced with the horrors of battle. Similarly, the youth of today are constantly exposed to the violence around them through the media, pop culture and, unfortunately, lived experiences.
“How I Live Now” does a commendable job of highlighting the struggles of younger generations’ way of survival in new and unfamiliar realms, such as war. Eventually, the four cousins fight their way toward freedom and end up back in each other’s arms.
Toward the film’s end, its characters grow more emboldened as they gain the control to rebuild their lives. Eddie, Daisy’s older cousin, becomes injured in the aftermath of the war. Daisy then continues to shape herself into a leader, pushing her cousins to safety. Daisy’s character arch illustrates the younger generation’s determination to adapt, persevere and advocate for a greater future.
Thus, “How I Live Now” is a story of resistance, resiliency, and the strength of the younger generation to fight for a better world. Yet, the premise goes beyond “just” a movie theme; it presents a question for the present and the future of humanity.