Why did a 1991 romantic drama fail to capture the hearts of film critics?
In short: Directed by Joel Schumacher and starring Julia Roberts, the 1991 film Dying Young was expected to be the summer's biggest hit. Despite high expectations and a recognizable soundtrack, the movie struggled to resonate with reviewers, who found its emotional core lacking despite the star power of its lead actress.
Released on June 21, 1991, by 20th Century Fox, Dying Young was based on the novel by Marti Leimbach. The plot follows Hilary O'Neil, an outgoing but unlucky woman who becomes the live-in caretaker for Victor Geddes, a wealthy 28-year-old battling leukemia. As Victor undergoes a traumatic chemotherapy course, the two develop a complex relationship that eventually leads them to a coastal retreat. The narrative explores themes of illness, quality of life, and the fear of hope as Victor attempts to hide the reality of his condition from Hilary.
The production featured an original score by James Newton Howard and a notable musical contribution from saxophonist Kenny G, whose theme song earned a nomination for a Best Pop Instrumental Performance. Despite these artistic efforts, the film faced significant critical pushback. On Rotten Tomatoes, it holds a 25% approval rating, with critics describing the drama as an inert slog. Roger Ebert, who awarded the film two out of four stars, criticized its tone as being mired in self-pity. Variety similarly noted that while Julia Roberts remained a major draw, the film itself felt lukewarm.
Financially, the movie performed moderately, grossing $82.2 million worldwide against an $18 million budget. While Premiere magazine had predicted it would be the highest-grossing film of the summer, it ultimately fell short of such lofty expectations. Nevertheless, the film received recognition at the 1992 MTV Movie Awards, where Julia Roberts earned nominations for Best Female Performance and Most Desirable Female, and Campbell Scott was nominated for Best Breakthrough Performance. Audiences were generally more receptive than critics, with CinemaScore surveys awarding the film a B+ grade, suggesting a disconnect between professional reviews and the public's emotional response to the story.
The film concludes with a poignant reference to Gustav Klimt's painting Adam and Eve, which serves as a symbolic touchstone for the couple's journey. By the end, Victor and Hilary decide to return to the hospital to fight for his life together, marking a shift from his earlier desire to run away from his medical reality.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Dying Young
- Also: Wikidata — Dying Young · CC0
- Also: Wikidata — dying young man with female figure · CC0
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