Review of 50/50 (2011) by Marty S — 27 Nov 2012

Story: 50/50 does an excellent job at balancing comedy with tragedy. I found myself laughing just as much as I was attempting to hold back any tears. The story is paced very well, and the end will leave you satisfied. The sub-plot of Levitt's character's relationship with his father is one of the most hard-hitting moments of a film I can recall in recent memory.

Acting: Levitt and Rogen are a great duo in 50/50. Levitt's idleness and nonchalance about things is heavily contrasted with Rogen's expressive emotions and hilarity. Excellent acting, especially by Levitt (notably at the climax of the film). The characterization of everyone is prime, with notable changes from beginning to end, with one notable scene near the end where Levitt's character finds a book with some notes in it that will really bring tears out of you.

Cinematography: Set in Seattle, the shots give us a nice winter atmosphere. Although nothing extraordinary in terms of cinematography, I certainly have no complaints. I think the film handled its shots well in accordance to its story.

Rewatchability: 50/50 is a film you should have no problem rewatching. I wouldn't say it's a film you could watch again and again without getting a little tired of it, but in moderation, it'll keep the tears and the laughs coming again and again.

The Bottom Line: Fantastic film, great acting, paced very well with truly heartbreaking and absolutely hilarious moments. If you're a fan of Rogen or JGL, it's a MUST-see movie.