A Detailed Critique of “Five Feet Apart” The Movie

Introduction

“Five Feet Apart,” directed by Justin Baldoni, is a 2019 romantic drama film that explores the challenges faced by two teenagers, Stella Grant (Haley Lu Richardson) and Will Newman (Cole Sprouse), who suffer from cystic fibrosis (CF). The film is inspired by a real-life situation and sheds light on the lives of those affected by this life-threatening genetic disorder. While the film has been praised for its emotional depth and strong performances, it has also faced criticism for certain aspects of its portrayal of cystic fibrosis and its romantic narrative. In this detailed critique, we will analyze various elements of the movie, including its storyline, character development, representation of cystic fibrosis, and overall impact.

Plot Summary

“Five Feet Apart” follows the story of Stella and Will, two teenagers who meet in a hospital while undergoing treatment for cystic fibrosis. The disease requires them to maintain a distance of six feet from each other to prevent cross-infection. Despite this, they form a deep emotional connection and decide to reclaim some control over their lives by reducing the distance to five feet. The film explores their struggle to balance their desire for intimacy with the realities of their illness.

Character Development

Stella Grant

Stella Grant, portrayed by Haley Lu Richardson, is a meticulous and determined teenager who takes her treatment regimen seriously. Her character is well-developed, showcasing her resilience, optimism, and the emotional burden of living with cystic fibrosis. Richardson’s performance is heartfelt and convincing, capturing Stella’s vulnerability and strength.

Will Newman

Cole Sprouse’s portrayal of Will Newman offers a contrasting character to Stella. Will is more rebellious and less compliant with his treatment. His character arc involves a journey from skepticism to hope, influenced by his relationship with Stella. While Sprouse’s performance is commendable, some critics argue that Will’s character could have been more nuanced, particularly in his transition from defiance to acceptance.

Supporting Characters

The supporting characters, including Poe (Moises Arias), Stella’s best friend, and Nurse Barb (Kimberly Hebert Gregory), add depth to the story. Poe’s character provides a poignant subplot about the impact of cystic fibrosis on relationships, while Nurse Barb’s protective nature highlights the challenges faced by healthcare providers in caring for CF patients.

Representation of Cystic Fibrosis

Accuracy and Sensitivity

“Five Feet Apart” attempts to raise awareness about cystic fibrosis and the daily struggles of those affected by it. The film portrays the stringent treatment routines, the constant threat of infections, and the emotional toll of the disease. However, some critics and CF advocates have pointed out inaccuracies and oversimplifications in the portrayal of the condition. For instance, the decision to reduce the distance between Stella and Will from six feet to five feet for romantic purposes has been criticized for undermining the severity of cross-infection risks.

Emotional Impact

Despite its shortcomings, the film effectively conveys the emotional weight of living with a chronic illness. The scenes depicting the characters’ hospital experiences, their fears, and their hopes resonate with audiences, fostering empathy and understanding. The movie’s emphasis on the importance of human connection, even in the face of adversity, is one of its most compelling aspects.

Romantic Narrative

Chemistry Between Leads

The chemistry between Haley Lu Richardson and Cole Sprouse is one of the film’s strengths. Their on-screen relationship evolves naturally, drawing viewers into their world. The romantic tension is palpable, and their desire to be close despite the restrictions imposed by their illness adds a layer of poignancy to their interactions.

Critique of Romanticization

However, the romanticization of illness is a point of contention. Some critics argue that the film prioritizes the love story at the expense of a more realistic portrayal of cystic fibrosis. The decision to focus on a romantic relationship, while compelling, risks trivializing the serious nature of the disease. Additionally, the narrative choice to have the characters take risks with their health for the sake of romance has been viewed as problematic and potentially misleading.

Cinematic Elements

Direction and Cinematography

Justin Baldoni’s direction is commendable, particularly in his ability to elicit strong performances from the cast. The film’s visual style is clean and polished, with the hospital setting portrayed in a way that feels both sterile and intimate. The use of close-ups and soft lighting enhances the emotional intensity of key scenes.

Soundtrack and Score

The soundtrack and score of “Five Feet Apart” complement the film’s tone, with a mix of contemporary songs and a poignant musical score. The music underscores the emotional highs and lows of the story, enhancing the overall viewing experience.

Screenplay and Dialogue

The screenplay, written by Mikki Daughtry and Tobias Iaconis, is generally effective in conveying the characters’ emotions and struggles. However, some dialogue can feel clichéd or overly sentimental, which detracts from the film’s authenticity. Balancing the need for dramatic impact with a realistic portrayal of living with cystic fibrosis remains a challenge.

Themes and Messages

Resilience and Hope

“Five Feet Apart” highlights themes of resilience, hope, and the human spirit’s capacity to endure hardship. The characters’ determination to find joy and meaning in their lives, despite the limitations imposed by their illness, is inspiring. The film encourages viewers to appreciate the small moments of connection and to find strength in adversity.

The Power of Human Connection

The film underscores the importance of human connection, even when physical proximity is restricted. Stella and Will’s relationship, as well as Stella’s friendship with Poe, illustrate the deep emotional bonds that can form even under challenging circumstances. This message resonates with audiences, particularly in a world where many people experience isolation and distance.

Conclusion

“Five Feet Apart” is a heartfelt and emotionally charged film that brings attention to the struggles of living with cystic fibrosis. While it has its flaws, particularly in its romanticization of illness and occasional inaccuracies, the film succeeds in fostering empathy and raising awareness about the disease. The strong performances by Haley Lu Richardson and Cole Sprouse, combined with Justin Baldoni’s direction, create a compelling narrative that resonates with audiences.

Ultimately, “Five Feet Apart” serves as a reminder of the importance of love, connection, and hope in the face of life’s challenges. Despite its imperfections, the film’s emotional depth and powerful themes make it a worthwhile watch for those seeking a moving and thought-provoking story.