So it’s not the first comedy about or featuring some character with Cancer. It is however really hilarious and at the same time thought provoking. Joseph Gordon Levitt stars as Adam Lerner, a 27 year old radio man who finds out he has cancer. Seth Rogen stars as Kyle, Adam’s best friend and co-worker.
The film is loosely based on a true story of its author Will Reiser and his struggle with cancer. As the movie begins Lerner finds out he has cancer and then must break the news to the 3 important people in his life. Their reactions are quite different, and In keeping in tune with the movie being a comedy they were also pretty comical.
The supporting cast is fantastic. First of all, Rogen is always hilarious so going in this is a given that he will bring a lot to the movie. Bryce Dallas Howard played the girl friend role fantastically. I would say more about her but I wont spoil the plot for you all. Anjelica Huston as the overly dramatic, slightly overbearing but still sweet mom is great for the mix. And she played the character so well that one could easily assume she is truly that person in real life.
The older men who Adam meets are awesome! First off they symbolized life and how precious it is. Without spoiling the plot, I will say there is one moment where that is made very obvious. However, even before that happens it was them who convinced Adam to “live a little” earlier in the film.
The film does have its tender moments but they are quick and it goes right back into the comedy. Even though it makes sense for a living man to write a story about himself beating cancer in an upbeat way I think it still feels a little odd to laugh about it. Truth be told you can’t help it. The movie will have you laughing from beginning to end. Besides how often can one say “If you wanna see a movie about cancer AND if you wanna see a movie and laugh your head off go see….” And have it be the same movie?!! I’m going to take advantage of this moment and say just that!
