100 Movie Challenge 2015 - # 60: The Fault in Our Stars

Director: Josh Boone

Genre: Drama

Runtime: 126 minutes

Year: 2014

Starring: Shailene Woodley, Ansel Elgort, Laura Dern, Nat Wolff, Willem Dafoe, Lotte Verbeek, Sam Trammell, Emily Peachey, Mike birbiglie, Amber Myers, Milica Govich, Allegra Carpenter, Johanna McGinley, Debbie Hartuer, Wyatt McClure

Description: Hazel (Shailene Woodley) and Augustus (Ansel Elgort), two teens, both who have different cancer conditions, fall in love after meeting at a cancer support group.

Review: The movie, based on the bestselling novel by John Green, targets young adults. With a surprising optimistic take, “The Fault in Our Stars” is more than a simple tearjerker.

When two young cancer patients, Hazel Grace Lancaster and Augustus Waters, meet each other at a support group, they have an immediate connection. The two share a considerate sense of humor and look at the world with a healthy touch of sarcasm. Although they know that there is only little time left, they let love into their lives.

“The Fault in Our Stars” deals with a heavy theme, but the movie is very subtle about it. It starts with the characters. Hazel and Gus don’t hide behind their sickness. They show vulnerability, but do it with humor. They don’t have self-pity, which makes you more connected to the characters. Hazel and Gus are always, good and bad, likeable.

The levity and humor in the story also manage to give Hazel and Gus depth. Not just one-dimensional characters who happen to be sick. Although the doctors and their parents know they will die, Hazel and Gus have a different view on life. They want to grab life by the balls and experience it.

Off course it’s inevitable to cry in the end, there are some moments that make this movie a bit over sentimental. A scene at the Dutch Anne Frank house is an example. For me it was a bit too much, it felt like it belonged in a simple feel good movie.

“The Fault in Our Stars” is a good adaptation of the book and it will definitely reach the audience it was targeting. There are many great moments in the movie and it manages to hit the right nerves. Great performances by Ansel Elgort and especially Shailene Woodley. “The Fault in Our Stars” has depth, humor and drama and is worth your time.

Rating: 4/ 5