An incredible film not afraid to step into dangerous territory

Rating: 9/10 (26 October 2014)

Inspired by a true story 50/50 takes us on the journey of Adam, your typical nice-guy who is diagnosed with a rare form of cancer, that no one can pronounce. The movie takes on a light-hearted comedy vibe early, but later on the film takes a serious turn and we see how horrific the cancer is and how it is eating at Adam from the inside out.
Despite the story line early on being somewhat predictable and a pair of obvious product placements, 50/50 was an enormous success, definitely being one, if not the best comedy/drama movies ever seen. The incredible directing by Jonathan Levine, gets everything right, the unexpected diagnosis, the overbearing mother, the girlfriend that will not touch him, the unexpectedly not so self-centered best friend, the cute therapist, and of course the cancer ridden protagonist. From the on-point cinematography by Terry Stacey and the realistic, depressing, yet still comedic writing of Will Reiser, to the incredible acting performances by Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Anna Kendrick, both of whom never cease to amaze me. It is the perfect blend of comedy and drama, with a stone-cold message about friendship and illness, but still including the comic relief that makes life tolerable.
Typically I find that comedies, whether it be a TV show, a stand up comedian, or a movie are best enjoyed with friends. This movie however, exceeded my expectations and was definitely appreciated although I watched it alone, in my bedroom, on a Saturday night. This film definitely deserves much more recognition, as it is an unsung hero of the film word.
The very first thing I noticed about this film was that it was set in my hometown of Vancouver, B.C. and although it was meant to be set in Seattle, Washington I suppose we can let them go on this one. I am not however, letting them off the hook when Adam, during a nervous breakdown says "I've never been to f****** Canada", seriously... this was filmed in Vancouver, CANADA.