50/50 (1:40) 2011

50/50 is based on a script written by Will Reiser who was diagnosed with cancer as a young man. Joseph Gordon-Levitt plays Adam, a 27 year old writer for radio, as he is told that he has a rare form of spinal cancer. He turns to his wise cracking friend, Kyle (Seth Rogen) for support. Adam also turns to Katherine, a therapist, for emotional support. Adam, at first,  keeps his mother at a distance but over time confides in her. Adam undergoes a round of chemo and later but later learns the chemo has had no effect on the tumor. He is advised to have a life threatening operation. The best scene, and one of the most moving, is between Adan and his mother (Anjelica Huston) just as he is being prepped for surgery. Gordon-Levitt is great in expressing all the emotions that come with battling for his life. Rogen, true to his movie personna, is crude, emotionally bungling, and funny as he supports the friend for whom he cares so much. 50/50 has been nominated for a American Spirit Best Feature award. Due to the competition, 50/50 has les than 25% chance of winning the Best Feature Award. It does get 100% for its heart and soul. A true gem of an independent film.