50/50 succeeds where too many films fail, it tells a good story. Too often films are trapped by side projects — CGI or crazy plot twists or hilarious situations — that they forget about the narrative. By focusing on a straight-forward, well-told story the other elements of the film flourish.
50/50 inspired by writer Will Reiser own battle with cancer, tells the story of 27-year-old Adam’s (Joseph Gordon-Levitt) discovery and battle with cancer.
Part of the story’s success is that it is not told in hyperbole. Despite the serious subject matter, the film is not overly dramatic or morose. As a comedy, it also does not create absurd situations or meander into dark humor. Instead, the film strikes a nice balance between the elements forming a believable plot.
The comedy is generally supplied in the interactions between Adam and his best friend Kyle (Seth Rogen). These interactions are driven by the two rather common reactions to the devastation of a potentially terminal disease: stewing in its reality and trying to make the best out of a bad situation. The tension between the two provides an interesting dynamic.
The film is witty. The jokes are tinged with a touch of dark humor, befitting the subject. But they are never over the top or crass.
Kyle’s attempts to use Adam’s cancer as a dating strategy are humorous but realistic. Being single with cancer is not particularly pleasant, but trying to use it as a pickup tactic is pretty funny.
This film demonstrates that the Rogen’s strength is in playing off of other characters. He is perfect as the overly committed buddy. His one-liners shine. The slovenly over eagerness is terrific sprinkled into the strong story. The cast also balances his bravado and matter-of-factness.
Gordon-Levitt’s performance is understated. There is a simplicity to it that lends credibility to the character. He brings intimacy to a character who silently struggles with the reality of his situation. We do not see the obvious ranting and raving of anger, but instead the cold simmer of frustration.
His best reactions often come in moments of silence. Two readily come to mind.
At one point he sits at home watching the broadcast of a volcano erupting, whose story he has been working on for radio piece. He is mesmerized. Without a single word we witness the complex set of reactions to this one moment.
The second occurs when he witnesses fellow chemotherapy patient Mitch (Matt Frewer) kiss his wife. He is struck by the beauty of the moment. He gets lost, as do we, in the love the two share. But there is also a moment of realization that he may never possess that sort of love or affection in his own life. His mortality and its costs are worn on his face.
Anna Kendrick puts in a strong performance as the mousey and unsure resident assigned to work with Adam in dealing with his diagnosis. She is awkward and shy in a charming way. She also wields the power of the awkward touch.
Anjelica Huston is terrific as Adam’s doting mother. Although her appearance is brief it is nonetheless strong.
50/50 is a consistently funny film. The story is solid. The characters are well-formed and interesting. The film is a new twist on the buddy film. You may need to dab your eyes but it does not dwell on tragedy.
PARSI VERDICT: The odds are strong that you will enjoy this film; I did.