500 Days of Summer
Launching an Indie twist on the rom-com genre, 500 Days of Summer examines the concept of fate in modern day America. Its lead stars Tom (Joseph Gordon-Levitt of Third Rock from the Sun fame) and Summer (Zooey Deschanel, Yes Man) come together whilst working together, seemingly meant to be, despite Summer’s reminders that their relationship is anything but; a casual get together which inevitably leads to wandering feelings and someone getting hurt along the way.
Another new-age Indie-style film from Fox Searchlight Pictures, 500 Days takes a non-traditional approach to the ideals of love, fate and long-term relationships, delivering a refreshing but oftimes depressing tale of how sometimes love just isn’t meant to be with some couples. Told in non-chronological order as a means of clearly presenting the opposing emotions experiences by Tom, the format is instantly accessible. Narration provides the audience with the details required, the quirky side-friends allow an insight into Tom’s personality and his take on relationships; the film never takes itself too seriously nor does it patronise the viewer by shoving the message in their face.
Deschanel is as stunningly beautiful as in Yes Man, whilst Gordeon-Levitt brings life, charisma and charm to his role, and couple exude chemistry and a natural aura whenever they’re together. Despite – or perhaps as a result of – the downturn in Tom’s fortunes, he finds his happiness elsewhere. Some say it’s fate.
A wonderfully quirky film - which doesn’t always take the standard storytelling route - but manages to deliver from start to finish.
8/10
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