50/50

Viewer Rating:HHhhhmmmm.... has rated 50/50 rating: 4 Star

I was very much looking forward to this movie but was afraid I was setting myself for disappointment. Luckily I was wrong and a very much enjoyed this film. Although it was not quite as expected.

This movie tells the story of Adam (Joseph Gordon Hewitt) , a 27 year old man, who is diagnosed with stage 4 cancer and given a 50/50 chance to live. The film shows how is family, friends and girlfriend deal with it and how it effects his life.

Due to the presence of Seth Rogen I had expected this film to be jam packed with hilarity, like his previous expeditions. The film, however, is more a dramatic retelling of one characters struggle with cancer and is merely sprinkled with humour here and there.

The movie could definitely be classified as a drama. The main character has cancer, his Dad has Alzheimers, the mom is overbearing, the girlfriend unsupportive and the film portrays death, depression and disease. Despite these heavy loaded issues the film never got too heavy as never over emphasised or dwelled on any one thing for too long.

The movie has light hearted aspects too. The relationship between Adam and his best friend add humour and to the film. Also the relationship between Adam and his therapist (the excellent Anna Kendrick) is comically awkward and also hints at a romantic theme as well which is nice.

Joseph Gordon Hewitt is very good in this movie. He plays the character perfectly and makes you nearly feel what he is feeling as you watch it. He never overplayed anything. Only negative was I never realised how sticky-out his ears where until he shaved his head.

On reflection I just found this movie to be very honest, clear and engaging. The characters and the relationships between them are believable and very realistic for a change. The movie provides and insight into the world of a cancer patient, and also how it is to be a patient without getting to bogged down in it.

I thoroughly enjoyed this film and am thinking of possibly seeing it a second time.

Review published on the 10 December 2011 01:19