(2011, Directed by Jonathan Levine)

50/50 follows Adam (Joseph Gordon-Levitt), a rudderless 27 year old public radio producer who is blindsided by a diagnosis of spinal cancer. This serious, sudden, and life-threatening disruption is less alarming to Adam and more of another burden in his blasé life. Prior to the diagnosis, we are introduced to Adam’s sparse couple of friends which include crass buddy Kyle (Seth Rogen) and flakey-artist-girlfriend Rachael (Bryce Dallas Howard).

Joseph Gordon-Levitt (who replaced James McAvoy for the lead) does an excellent job of playing Adam, clearly the most nuanced character in this semi-autobiographical script written by real-life cancer survivor and television producer Will Reiser. Rogen, who is actually friends with Reiser, delivers the same naturalistic yet still enjoyable performance as horny, prickly but good-hearted pothead, much like previous turns in The 40 Year Old Virgin and Knocked Up.

Tonally similar to Funny People, another Rogen-as-sidekick film dealing with cancer, the picture takes its time examining the rut that is Adam’s life and how his emotional detachment translates in a life-threatening situation. Adam cautiously befriends cute newbie cancer therapist Katie (Anna Kendrick) who awkwardly tries to steer Adam into opening up about his feelings and relationships. The pairing have great onscreen chemistry together. On the contrary, Anjelica Huston turns in a rather one note performance of Adam’s overbearing mom already burdened with an Alzheimer’s stricken husband. This mom-cliché is a symptom of the script’s overall less than inspiring supporting characters. Director Jonathan Levine (whose previous feature The Wackness was well received) and the actors do a good job of fleshing out these people who seem to only revolve around and define themselves within the context of Adam and his affliction.

Without a car, Adam hitches rides from Rachael and Kyle or takes the bus to get to his chemotherapy treatments and therapy sessions. Riding along, the viewer gets a feel for Seattle which plays a distinct but quiet setting that compliments Adam’s dreary outlook. During these hospital visits Adam meets an older chemo-buddy as played by Philip Baker Hall, a definite highlight. Another pitch perfect feature is the musical cues from Radiohead, The Walkmen, and others which play up the emotional situations that Adam struggles through.

Overall the movie is well crafted enough to let the viewer eventually become attached to its floaty characters, especially Adam who gainfully comes to terms with his uninspired life as juxtaposed against a dire situation. There are problems with unrealized or clichéd characters but a steady stream of emotional clarity and a sprinkling of laughs help make 50/50 a decent bet.