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50/50 - Movie Review
Grade: B+
And so we find another film following the steps of films such as “Juno,” using a lighthearted approach to an unequivocally mature topic. Johnathon Levine’s (The Wackness) 50/50 - a la’ Jason Reitman - attempts to create a comedy out of a common real-life concern. In this case, the film focuses on the biggest apprehension of all, death; Surprisingly, 50/50 succeeds in maintaining heartfelt authenticity without making the subject too much of a laughing matter.
The “nice-guy” Joseph Gordon Levitt is yet again typecasted as he plays a Seattle public radio producer who follows the rules; he will not even cross an empty street when the light is red. When diagnosed with a rare spinal cancer, the film focuses on how he and the people around him - his irresponsible girlfriend (Bryce Dallas Howard), his overprotective mother (Angelica Houston), and his best friend (Seth Rogan) - react to this abrupt wake up call. There is also some romance evolving with his social therapist played by Anna Kendrick, who is akin to these quasi-indie films. The romantic elements of the film do not quite take off though, as it is hastily addressed.
Loosely based on the screenwriter Will Reiser’s own confrontation with cancer, 50/50 is filled with depth and reality with a light touch of humor. The emotional appeal is bona fide, which is undoubtedly composed by Reiser’s script as well as the strong performances by Levitt and Rogan - who sort of play somewhat of character foils. But with such a serious matter intertwined with comedy, there is going to be some issues. Up until the midpoint, the film does not quite find its tone; It was almost awkward when the film altered its tone from comedy to dealing with the matter in a mature sense. It is a minor flaw deriving from the script, but overall Reiser’s writing is an emotional achievement.
Even with some tone issues, 50/50 is certainly the most entertaining and heartfelt comedy you will see this year; At the same time it is considerably the most emotionally complex. I will admit, that it is the first film this year that left me in tears by the end. With a marvelous script and talented cast, 50/50 accomplishes in creating a hilarious and emotionally tear-jerking comedy in midst of an otherwise grim premise. Grade B+
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