The Fault in Our Stars is a 2014 romantic drama film based on John Green's novel of the same name. It follows two teenagers, Hazel Grace Lancaster and Augustus Waters, as they meet at a cancer support group and fall in love despite their struggles with cancer. Directed by Josh Boone and starring Shailene Woodley, Ansel Elgort, Willem Dafoe, Nat Wolff, Laura Dern, and Sam Trammell, the film was released to critical acclaim for its performances from both leads along with its screenplay adapted from Green's novel.
The Fault in Our Stars tells the story of Hazel Grace Lancaster (Woodley), who has been living with terminal thyroid cancer since she was 13 years old. She meets Augustus Waters (Elgort) when he joins her weekly cancer support group meeting after having his leg amputated due to osteosarcoma. Despite their difficult circumstances, they quickly form an unlikely bond that blossoms into love over time spent together discussing books and going on adventures around Amsterdam, where Augustus takes them on a surprise trip. The trip happens just days before his own death from cancer-related complications, leaving Hazel heartbroken but determined not to let him go without making sure that everyone knows how much he meant to her.
The success of The Fault in Our Stars lies primarily within its message about life being precious because nothing lasts forever—something that can be seen through each character's individual experiences throughout this movie as well as all those around them, such as family members affected by these diseases too. Everyone finds hope in tragedy, showing us that although sometimes bad things happen, there is always beauty to be found amongst despair, given enough time for healing. The success of this film proves once again why movies like this one are so important. To remind viewers everywhere that life truly is worth fighting for, no matter how bleak things might seem at times due to uncontrollable events. We are ultimately led towards true happiness if we open ourselves up to opportunities instead of wallowing away and being unable to accept change.
Moreover, another aspect contributing to The Fault in Our Star's success would certainly be its ability to touch people emotionally through intense scenes (highlighting characters' various physical ailments) and profound conversations. The conversations are full of rich symbolism and represent real-life feelings associated with battling deadly illnesses, often showcasing how little control individuals facing these issues really have in their lives. The film demonstrates the importance of appreciating every moment spent on earth versus worrying about unnecessary matters.
The Fault in Our Stars suggests that perhaps the best course of action is to simply focus on loving people instead of anything else. Chase a more closely resembling personal version of paradise than unattainable goals.