See it at the Movies

THE FAULT IN OUR STARS

Joyce and Don Fowler
Posted 6/19/14

* * * (Don & Joyce)

* * * *  (Young girls)

(Bittersweet Romance)

Based on a novel aimed at teenage girls, the movie seemed to be popular with the theatre full of them Sunday afternoon. …

This item is available in full to subscribers.

Please log in to continue

E-mail
Password
Log in
See it at the Movies

THE FAULT IN OUR STARS

Posted

* * * (Don & Joyce)

* * * *  (Young girls)

(Bittersweet Romance)

Based on a novel aimed at teenage girls, the movie seemed to be popular with the theatre full of them Sunday afternoon. There was out and out sobbing near the end of the manipulative script, which at two hours plus went on a bit too long.

Shallene Woodley is very good as Hazel Grace, the teenager with cancer who totes around an oxygen tank and has developed her own defense mechanisms for dealing with her disease. She meets 18-year-old Gus (Ansel Elgort) at her dreaded support group and they form an interesting friendship based on a book she recommends to him. Gus has lost a leg due to cancer but maintains a happy, positive attitude and the two slowly fall in love.

They communicate with the author of the book (Willem Dafoe), which ends abruptly with no closure, seeking a meeting with him. He lives in Amsterdam, and the long plane ride is discouraged by Hazel’s doctor, but her caring and supportive mother (Laura Dern) makes arrangements, and off go the trio on a three-day trip.

The shots of Amsterdam are great, including a peak inside the Anne Frank house, where Hazel must lug her oxygen tank up three flights of stairs.

The visit to the author turns out to be a disaster, as they are confronted by a pompous, insulting drunk. Their spirit is not broken, however, as they make the most of their trip and return home having fallen in love and willing to face their worst fears.

The Showcase doesn’t supply any Kleenex, so bring plenty as the movie takes a long time to wind down. You may or may not see the ending coming.

“The Fault in Our Stars” is a poignant film filled with some dark humor, a few clichés and a teary plot. It is also uplifting, showing the power of love and caring.

Rated PG-13, it is appropriate for mature teens, with only one major profanity that is used at the most appropriate time.

Comments

No comments on this item Please log in to comment by clicking here