YA Movie Review: The Fault In Our Stars

Release Date: June 6, 2014

Rating: PG-13

Directed by: Josh Boone

Novel by: John Green

Starring: Shailene Woodley and Ansel Elgort

*If you have not read the book then this is your complimentary spoiler alert.*

When describing the John Green's novel I've always said it's a happy-sad read, but mostly happy. Sure enough the first set of tears shed for The Fault in Our Stars were happy tears. 

If you're not familiar with the story let me introduce you to Hazel Grace Lancaster, the pragmatist, and her suitor Augustus Waters, the optimist. Both are living with cancer and develop a friendship built on borrowed time, little infinities if you will. Taking a "Genie" trip to Amsterdam in pursuit of a reclusive author leads Hazel and Gus to face the Swedish rap music, literally. It's through the author, Van Houten, that even our optimist, Augustus, is grounded in the idea that there are no happy endings and even little infinities maybe finite. 

I could go on-and-on about novel to screen differences but this story is more than words on a page, it's about spirit. The spirit of young love, the spirit of "always", the spirit of life and Boone's film captures just that. Since the ending is known it's hard to watch it without the shadow cloud looming overhead but I easily forgot about cancer in several scenes. Through Hazel's narration and the cartoonish text bubbles viewers are transported into the lives of being a young adult, which Hazel will tell you a fake ID is necessary. From Augustus' smoking metaphor, drinking the stars, exploring intimacy, breakups, and grief the makings of a good coming-of-age tale. Except we know that the option to come-of-age is not for all. Cue the tears, feels, and ugly cries as this reality shatters the character's adolescence and any hope of a happy ending. In two hours TFIOS true win is revealing that teenagers can be wise and brave beyond their years. Okay? Okay. 

Audience Reactions

There was massive clapping prior to the lights dimming and numerous sighs as preview after preview aired. By the time the eulogy scenes began there was very loud and emotional crying taking place and when the lights came up groups of people hugging in support group style. Even as I walked into the parking lot I could still hear sniffles and cries. 

In a 140 characters or less

Credits have rolled and there is some serious feels still being had... It was a privilege to know you Augustus #TFIOS
— Meghann (@BecomingBooks) June 6, 2014

How was it? Incredibly accurate, therefore heartbreakingly beautiful #TFIOS
— MeghannBecomingBooks (@BecomingBooks) June 7, 2014

Total Feels –  5 cries

Verdict – See it opening weekend + pre-order the DVD!

Did you see it? Don't care to see it?
Let me know in the comments below!