76 In-spire LS
The Plot:
Based on real life events, 50/50 tells the story of Adam, a young, seemingly healthy man who
finds out he has cancer. As he struggles with the realisation that his odds of surviving are 50/50, this cancer
comedy takes us on a journey of acceptance, friendship, and recovery.
The Verdict:
50/50, directed by Jonathan Levine is a warming, gentle, triumph of a movie, complete with
an incredible cast and fabulous direction. Joseph Gordon Levitt excels as Adam, the young radio station
employee with a beautiful girlfriend (Bryce Dallas Howard) and immature best friend (Seth Rogen), whose
life is overturned by an unexpected diagnosis. From the moment he is told of his cancer, Adam's world
slowly unravels, and 50/50 not only tells his story, but looks at the effect it has on the people around him. His
girlfriend Rachael struggles to cope with Adam's cancer, and drifts away from him. Seth Rogen is surprisingly
charming as best friend Kyle in this film, who awkwardly tries to support Adam without making him feel like
a lost cause. Though he is often quite irritating in the film, Rogen tones himself down and gives a fabulous
performance.
50/50 is genuinely, sharply funny, and the relationship between Adam and Kyle accounts for many of the
film's funniest moments. Indeed, the encounters between Adam and his self-conscious, in-experienced
therapist (Anna Kendrick) are some of the most entertaining. But as well as being a comedy, there are some
truly heart-wrenching moments in 50/50. As the date of Adam's operation nears, he finds himself unable to
keep up his façade of optimism, and breaks down in the car. Levitt, an incredible actor, gives Adam the depth
and three-dimensional characterisation necessary to create this beautifully crafted movie.
An Inspirational Film Because:
50/50 is an emotional, uplifting story of survival against the odds. The
film gently directs the viewer around the struggles of an un-expectant cancer patient with subtle charm and
eloquence. As well as being an incredibly entertaining film, 50/50 will make you appreciate your health, and
the positive relationships you have.
By Leighan Renaud @tinkslele
50/50
(2011)
In-spirational Film of The Month
In-spire LS
Movie Matters: