(500) Days of Summer (2009) with Trailer

An unconventional romantic comedy where the focus isn't completely on the romance but on the pitfalls and breakdown of a relationship viewed all from the male perspective. It's a story about "boy meets girl" but the films structure is completely shown at random. Instead of following a linear storyline the action jumps back and forth through the 500 day relationship that Tom Hanson (played by Joseph Gordon-Levitt) and Summer Finn (Zooey Deschanel) have. The omniscient narrator sets out the background of each character and their own views on love. When Tom first sees Summer, he believes that she is the "one".

It's a refreshing and unique way to re-tell someones relationship. From the initial introduction to the their blossoming romance, it's an amusing look at how one's memory can only see or remember the good parts of a failing relationship. It's very touching yet not overly schmaltzy with plenty of humour. As Tom tries to woo Summer there are so many awkward and funny moments, and when Tom talks about Summer he tells his friends what he likes about her from her smile, hair birthmark, etc and when the relationship breaks down we see him reminisce it in a different way. The contrast is very funny.

Both Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Zooey Deschanel are very likable and play the parts in a very believable, genuine and authentic way. The chemistry between them comes across very well. The supporting players in the film provide the voice of reason for Tom as they try to put up with his constant obsession with Summer. Chloe Moretz plays his younger sister who also provides him with advice, has a head wiser than her age.

The soundtrack is a joy to listen to with music from an eclectic mix ranging from Regina Spektor to The Smiths to an enjoyable musical number where Tom performs a little dance on the streets to the Hall and Oates song "You Make My Dreams". Ladies, that's what we gentleman feel like doing when we have scored, believe you me (or that may just be me but what the hell...).

What I enjoyed most about this, is it's screenplay and the general feel and lightness to the overall film. A fantastic spin on the whole rom-com, where love is not the end product. A witty and often amusing dialogue which is equally sarcastic and heartwarming. It captures a relationship to a tee. There are moments of joy and moments of sadness (the split screen of expectations v reality is so heart crushing). The contrasting look at both sides of love feels truthful and not cliched. A point of view which isn't often seen in theses types of films/genres and one where I'd like to see more of. It's rare we know how the film ends right from the start and it explores the nature in the way the relationship start, form and breakdown but not remembered in those orders. A poignant and remarkably funny sweet picture that is OK for guys to like.

Technical Merit 4/5
Narrative 5/5
Acting 4.5/5
Entertainment 4.5/5

18/20