Review of 50/50 (2011) by Shane M — 23 Feb 2014

My 90th R-rated movie, and an interesting and unique look at those who suffer from or survived cancer. Loosely based off Will Reiser's experience with spinal cancer, 50/50 follows Adam, a public radio journalist, suffering from back pains, goes to the doctor, only to discover he has schwannoma neurofibrosarcoma, a malignant tumor in his spine (spine cancer), and must try to beat it while going through therapy and dealing with his life.

The film perfectly explores the way a cancer patient goes through life, including doctor appointments, treatments (chemotherapy, surgery, medical marijuana), and wondering what the outcome will be (not trying to scare anyone).

The film details how the case can affect the person and those close to him (friends and family) with their emotions and concerns towards the patient and the doctors. Will Reiser, who had been diagnosed with spinal cancer in 2005, only to survive by going through a life saving surgery in order to remove the cancer, and was inspired by Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg to write a screenplay based on his experience, captures everything that goes on in each character's life, as well as evenly following the events throughout.

Jonathan Levine is able to find the right place and time to shoot the scenes, and he nails his part in the production. The acting is incredible, which includes main stars Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Seth Rogen, Anna Kendrick, and Bruce Dallas Howard in their respective roles, and they are able to find the appropriate reactions for each scene in the film.

The film has an intelligent blend of comedy and drama, and the transition between each genre is perfect, which gives lots of laughs and emotion. A must-see for audiences and cancer patients.