50/50: A Story Of Unexpected Circumstance.

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Upon entering into the theater for a sneak pre-view of Jason Levine’s film 50/50, opening in theaters September 30^th, I was unsure of what to expect.  I had only seen posters around the theater for the last few months promoting the film, as posters do, with the familiar faces of Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Seth Rogen.  I was intrigued by what I saw; Levitt at the beginnings of shaving his head, and Rogen watching behind with a look of almost disgust on his face.  I’ve always been a fan of Levitt since his 3^rd Rock from the Sun days and Rogen, who also produced this film along with Evan Goldberg and Ben Karlin, more recently when I caught a glimpse of his humor in Superbad.  So I knew it was only a matter of time that I would view this film, all I knew at that time was that it was coming soon.  Little did I know I would receive free tickets merely days later.



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Based off of screenwriter, Will Reisers, personal battle with cancer, Reiser and Levine took on the undeniable risk of making a film about cancer, and turned it into a comedy; 50/50 came out on top portraying the story in a respectful and tasteful manner.

Levine takes us on the journey of two friends trying to cope with the unexpected discovery of a malignant tumor, with a 50/50 chance of survival.  From beginning to end, I really could not help but feel the need to protect Adam (Joseph Gordon-Levitt) as Reiser has given him the characteristics of someone who appears careful, timid and fragile.  At 27-years-old, Adam finds he has a malignant tumor along his spine, and being represented as the type of man who won’t even cross the street unless permitted to at a crosswalk, it is easy to grasp the concept that scary things can happen to both the good and the bad.

  

Kyle (Seth Rogen) sets humor throughout the film when needed, taking the edge off such a grave topic and giving Adam a more “positive”, and rather promiscuous, outlook on the subject.  Kyle gives off the air of someone who is irresponsible and will not take anything seriously.  It is later realized how much Kyle cares and is struggling himself.

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  This story is refreshingly witty and insightful even with the tragic cancer topic so eminent.  I would definitely recommend adding this film to your list of movies to see within the next month.  Bring a date, your best friend or a member of your family, all will find aspects to appreciate.