The Fault in our Stars

The Fault in our Stars

Rated PG-13 and Released in Grand Rapids 6/13/14

Reviewed 7/1/14 at Celebration North Theatre

with Anette

3 out of 5 Js in QUIET Rating System

I did not read the book prior to seeing this but heard plenty about it, so I started crying practically before it even started. There really wasn't any reason to, but it was that "pre-knowledge" of what's to come. The theatre was filled with all females and that came as no surprise. Guys might disagree with me on this, but I would say this is not just a chick flick.

Hazel Grace (Shalene Woodley) and Gus Waters (Angel Elgort) are teenagers that are sadly afflicted with different forms of cancer. This is miserable for sure, but in spite of this the writers do a good job at making this film charming and even witty. The pair meets up at a support group for teenagers that Hazel's mom (Laura Dern) forces her to attend. It changes her life as Hazel meets her soul mate Gus. They are adorable together and it is hard to believe that they are supposed to be high school age, but their life circumstances make them seem more mature. One criticism is when they go on an international quest to Amsterdam. It is a disturbing visit which the creators make an attempt to later tie in an explanation, but the scenes just seemed to be missing some vital information. Maybe it's in the book? While knowing you need some tissues, don't be scared away at seeing The Fault in Our Stars. It is well worth it.

QUIET Rating system: 3  Js

Quality: JJJ

Understood story:  JJj

Interest: JJJj

Entertainment:  JJJ

Time:  JJ