Hey guys!
Sorry I haven't posted for a while, I went up to Cheshire last week and I had no access to a computer. #sadtimes But anyway, a couple of weeks ago I went to see The Fault in Our Stars, after reading it the previous weekend. I am so glad I saw it - I would definitely recommend it.
I am sure you can think of at least one film that stays true to its origin as a novel. Well, The Fault in our Stars is exactly that. Funny, thrilling and moving, Michael H. Weber and Scott Neustadter's adaptation of John Green's bestselling novel is the one film that you simply cannot miss this summer.
The Fault in Our Stars follows sixteen year old Hazel Grace Lancaster. Known for her previous roles in Divergent and The Spectacular Now, Shailene Woodley shines in her portrayal of this wonderful character. Diagnosed with cancer at the age of thirteen, Hazel has to live every day as though it is her last. She remains hooked to an oxygen tank, which she names Phil, because her lungs 'suck at being lungs'. Hazel occupies herself with books and reality TV, in particular America's Next Top Model, as well as studying. This all changes when she turns seventeen...
After deciding that her daughter is depressed, Frannie (Laura Dern) sends her to a local support group to meet other young people in similar situations. It comes as no surprise that Hazel is reluctant at first - she would rather go out partying like "ordinary" teens. However, she soon realises that the support group is not as bad as she initially thought and takes an instant shine to Augustus Waters (Gus), played by the gorgeous Ansel Elgort. As with Hazel, Gus is a cancer survivor himself. It is their shared interest in literature that brings them closer together and makes them soon fall in love. Hazel introduces Gus to her favourite novel, An Imperial Affliction. Gus fulfils Hazel's wishes and the pair successfully embarks on a journey to Amsterdam in attempt to find the author. Much to the teens' disappointment, meeting Peter van Outen turns out to be too good to be true. He is rude, arrogant and unwelcoming, refusing to tell the star-crossed lovers what happens to the main characters once the story has finished.
What I love about The Fault in Our Stars is the excellent acting and the utterly convincing chemistry between Hazel and Gus. It avoids the clichés of most young adult drama, therefore appealing to all age groups. Woodley is great at depicting a sarcastic and vulnerable teenage girl, while Elgort is undoubtedly perfect for the role of the guy who will capture the attention of all the female members of the audience. Though they are an eccentric couple, viewers will grow attached to Hazel and Gus, who are both relatable and lovable.
Like all great love stories, this one ends with a heartbreaking twist. It makes you realise just how valuable life is and that you should make the most of it. So grab your tissues - The Fault in Our Stars is guaranteed to make you cry.
