What happens when a hopeless romantic falls for a carefree girl who doesn’t believe in love? Starring Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Zooey Deschanel, independent film (500) Days of Summer explores this and more. Hilarity, quirkiness, and honesty abound in this unusual take on a romantic comedy.
Tom (Levitt) wants more than anything to find the girl of his dreams, settle down, and get married. He meets Summer (Deschanel), and it seems like fate – until he realizes that she is only looking for a casual fling. The film follows the good, the bad, and the ugly of their 500-day relationship, although not always in chronological order. Beyond that, viewers have the opportunity to see how this relationship affects the characters’ ideas and beliefs on love and life itself.
Tom (Levitt) wants more than anything to find the girl of his dreams, settle down, and get married. He meets Summer (Deschanel), and it seems like fate – until he realizes that she is only looking for a casual fling. The film follows the good, the bad, and the ugly of their 500-day relationship, although not always in chronological order. Beyond that, viewers have the opportunity to see how this relationship affects the characters’ ideas and beliefs on love and life itself.
Screenwriters Scott Neustadter and Michael H. Weber do a fantastic job balancing subtle humor, great one-liners, pop references, and more serious topics. During one scene, Tom and Summer go on a date to IKEA, where they act out different scenarios depending on which section they are in. In the model kitchen, Summer pretends that she is trying to use the sink, and realizes that there is no water. She feigns desperation, while her pretend husband reassures her. This is just one example of the many funny and relatable scenes throughout the movie.
The acting is spot-on. Chloe Grace Moretz really stands out for me, as she plays Tom’s kid sister. Most of the time, she is the one acting like an adult, coaching Tom through his relationship, providing him with a good scolding when he needs it, and comforting him through the difficult times.
The acting is spot-on. Chloe Grace Moretz really stands out for me, as she plays Tom’s kid sister. Most of the time, she is the one acting like an adult, coaching Tom through his relationship, providing him with a good scolding when he needs it, and comforting him through the difficult times.
Because of the constant transitions between days of the relationship, it can be a bit confusing at times. However, I feel that this is the only weak point within the movie.
Due to sexual references, language, references to alcohol, and thematic elements, viewers should be 13 and older.
If you’re a fan of romantic comedies, but are looking for something with a unique twist, then definitely check out (500) Days of Summer. The comedic timing will have you laughing, and the themes will leave you thinking about your own relationships.
MPAA Rating: PG-13
Film Grade: A-
Check back here next week for more reviews.
Until Next Time,
Kathryn (The Redhead Behind the Reviews)
Tweet Review: (500) Days of Summer, a new-aged romantic comedy, offers the perfect balance of wit, charm, and quirkiness. Definitely a must-see!
11/3/16
Due to sexual references, language, references to alcohol, and thematic elements, viewers should be 13 and older.
If you’re a fan of romantic comedies, but are looking for something with a unique twist, then definitely check out (500) Days of Summer. The comedic timing will have you laughing, and the themes will leave you thinking about your own relationships.
MPAA Rating: PG-13
Film Grade: A-
Check back here next week for more reviews.
Until Next Time,
Kathryn (The Redhead Behind the Reviews)
Tweet Review: (500) Days of Summer, a new-aged romantic comedy, offers the perfect balance of wit, charm, and quirkiness. Definitely a must-see!
11/3/16