Released in 2019, Five Feet Apart tells a poignant love story of two teenagers living with cystic fibrosis (CF), a life-threatening genetic disorder. Directed by Justin Baldoni, the film explores the delicate balance between love and survival as the protagonists navigate a relationship defined by physical separation. With its blend of heartwarming moments and emotional depth, the movie invites viewers to reflect on the fragility and resilience of life.
Quick Overview
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Title | Five Feet Apart |
| Release Date | March 15, 2019 |
| Genre | Romance, Drama |
| Director | Justin Baldoni |
| Lead Actors | Cole Sprouse, Haley Lu Richardson |
| Runtime | 116 minutes |
| IMDb Rating | 7.2/10 |
Plot Synopsis
The film follows Stella Grant (Haley Lu Richardson) and Will Newman (Cole Sprouse), two teenagers battling cystic fibrosis. Their condition forces them to remain at least six feet apart to prevent cross-infection. Despite this barrier, they develop a deep emotional connection and find solace in each other. Defying medical rules, Stella decides to “steal back a foot” and be only five feet apart from Will, creating a poignant metaphor for their longing to connect despite life’s constraints.
Key Highlights
| Aspect | Comment |
|---|---|
| Cinematography | Intimate and visually compelling hospital setting |
| Music/Soundtrack | Emotional and complementary |
| Acting Performances | Haley Lu Richardson delivers a standout performance |
| Screenplay | Touching but occasionally predictable |
| Direction | Sensitive handling of a complex subject |
In-Depth Review
Acting
Haley Lu Richardson delivers an emotionally nuanced performance as Stella, capturing the character’s optimism and resilience. Cole Sprouse portrays Will with a brooding charm that contrasts beautifully with Stella’s vibrant energy. Their chemistry brings authenticity to the love story, making their struggles deeply relatable.
Direction
Justin Baldoni, known for his compassionate storytelling, approaches cystic fibrosis with sensitivity and care. He balances the film’s romantic elements with an honest portrayal of the challenges faced by those living with chronic illness.
Screenplay
The screenplay provides a heartfelt narrative, weaving moments of humor and hope into the characters’ struggles. However, some plot points feel predictable, and the pacing occasionally falters.
Cinematography
The film effectively uses the hospital setting to create an intimate atmosphere. Close-ups and muted tones emphasize the characters’ isolation while highlighting their emotional connection.
Music
The soundtrack enhances the film’s emotional depth, featuring tracks that underscore the bittersweet nature of Stella and Will’s relationship.
Comparison with Similar Works
| Title | Similarity | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| The Fault in Our Stars | Teen romance amidst terminal illness | Focuses on cancer rather than cystic fibrosis |
| Me Before You | Love story with medical challenges | Explores euthanasia and caregiver dynamics |
| Everything, Everything | Protagonists separated by medical conditions | Lacks the realistic depth of Five Feet Apart |
Audience Reception
| Platform | Rating/Score |
|---|---|
| IMDb | 7.2/10 |
| Rotten Tomatoes | 53% (Critics) / 79% (Audience) |
| Metacritic | 53/100 |
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Strong lead performances | Some clichés in the romantic storyline |
| Sensitive handling of cystic fibrosis depiction | Pacing slows in certain parts |
| Emotional and visually engaging | Predictable plot elements |
Conclusion
Five Feet Apart is a heartfelt exploration of love, loss, and the human spirit’s resilience in the face of adversity. While it may follow familiar beats of the romance genre, its sincere performances and compassionate storytelling make it a standout. This movie is a must-watch for those who enjoy tearjerkers with a deeper message.
Have you seen Five Feet Apart? Share your thoughts on Stella and Will’s unique love story in the comments below! If not, get ready for an emotional rollercoaster and keep a box of tissues handy.