Not just another teen romance

Rating: 7/10 (22 July 2014)

Quickie Review:
Hazel (Shailene Woodley), a terminal cancer patient and Gus (Ansel Elgort), a cancer survivor become friends after meeting for the first time at a cancer support group. Despite the overwhelming circumstances they both have been dealt with, through their friendship that grows into love, Hazel and Gus triumph over the fear of death and oblivion. The Fault In Our Stars is a surprisingly touching movie that is actually smart. Its incredible two leads bring such realism to their characters that make them and the story all the more relatable. A beautifully heartbreaking and heartwarming movie that deserves more recognition.
Full Review:
Well, I'll be honest when I saw the trailers and saw that this is yet another teen romance novel adaption, I couldn't care less for it. But then slowly I started to hear some good buzz so I got curious. I knew I wasn't the target demographic, this was made even clearer to me when I realized there was literally one other male in the entire cinema (no exaggeration) and he was there with his girlfriend. So I was the only single male in his 20s watching The Fault In Our Stars. Which is a shame because I enjoyed the movie and think more people should go out and see it.
There is a reason why some people avoid movies that are based on teen romance novels, because they tend to sugar coat and glorify the love aspect of the story and ignore realistic hardships that comes with relationships **sneeze** Twilight **sneeze** (sorry, allergic too crap movies, can't help it). But let me be absolutely clear, The Fault In Our Stars is not that kind of movie. Both Hazel and Gus are instantly likable characters. They are witty and smart, and that comes across very well thanks to the strong script. Gus especially is this extremely optimistic person and by being with him Hazel finally feels like she doesn't need to be defined by her cancer. At the same time Hazel helps Gus realize to cherish the memories he makes with the people he loves. All of what I described doesn't happen in an instant, it all takes time just like it would in real life. That is why when they eventually fall in love and see them suffer with cancer together, it is completely believable.
This is not a movie that only people dealing with cancer or people who know others with cancer will relate to. Everyone will be touched by the story of Gus and Hazel. I could hear half the theater sniffling and in tears, and understandably so.
So I must say if you are on the fence about this movie, I say give it a chance. It may not be a perfect movie but it doesn't have to be. I am thankful I gave it that chance.
P.S. I know I have male friends that feel like they will be dragged to this movie by their significant other. So guys and girls, if you feel the same way, trust me this is a pretty good one to be dragged to.
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