Capsule Film Review: The Fault in Our Stars (2014)

Based on the best-selling novel by John Green, The Fault in Our Stars is a teen film that stands out with its seriousness – a quality seldom seen in Hollywood films of that genre. Protagonist and narrator, played by Shailene Woodley, is Hazel Lancaster, 16-year old girl whose past few years have been marked by malignant and metastatised cancer and for whom every month of life represents a gift. During support group session, she meets Augustus Waters (played by Ansel Elgort), 18-year old former basketball star crippled by cancer. Two of them fall in love and, knowing that their time has a limit, decide to spend it on romantic trip to Amsterdam where they should meet the author of their favourite book. Unlike many sad melodramas, The Fault in Our Stars doesn't shy away from less romantic aspects of their characters' situation, but it also employs a good and refreshing dose of gallows humour. Despite occasional slip into sentimentality, this film doesn't insult viewers' intelligence, and it could be enjoyed and appreciated by audience.

RATING: 7/10