One-line Summary:

Five Feet Apart by Justin Baldoni

In “Five Feet Apart,” directed by Justin Baldoni, two teenagers with cystic fibrosis, Stella and Will, form a deep connection while being treated in the same hospital. Despite their attraction, they must maintain a distance of at least six feet from each other to avoid cross-infection. As they navigate the challenges of their illness and the restrictions it imposes, Stella and Will find solace and understanding in each other’s company. Their bond grows stronger as they defy the rules and come to terms with the fragility of life and the importance of living in the moment.

Main Cast and Crew:

• Director: Justin Baldoni
• Writer: Mikki Daughtry and Tobias Iaconis
• Key Actors:
  • Haley Lu Richardson as Stella Grant
  • Cole Sprouse as Will Newman
  • Moises Arias as Poe Ramirez
  • Kimberly Hebert Gregory as Nurse Barb
• Music Director: Brian Tyler
• Director of Photography: Frank G. DeMarco
• Producers: Cathy Schulman and Justin Baldoni

Plot:

Stella Grant, a seventeen-year-old cystic fibrosis patient, spends most of her time in the hospital. She is meticulous about following her treatment routine and maintaining a safe distance from others to avoid infection. When she meets Will Newman, another CF patient, she is immediately drawn to his rebellious nature. However, their attraction is complicated by the strict rule that CF patients must stay at least six feet apart to prevent cross-infection.

Despite the distance, Stella and Will find ways to connect. They communicate through text messages, share their dreams and fears, and develop a deep emotional bond. Stella introduces Will to her best friend, Poe, who also has CF, and they form an unlikely trio. Together, they navigate the challenges of their illness, support each other, and find moments of joy amidst the hospital routine.

As Stella and Will’s feelings for each other grow, they struggle with the limitations imposed by their condition. They yearn for physical closeness but must resist the temptation to break the six-feet rule. Their journey becomes a delicate balance between following the rules and seizing the opportunities for happiness that come their way.

Themes and Motifs:

“Five Feet Apart” explores themes of love, resilience, and the fragility of life. The film delves into the emotional and physical challenges faced by individuals with cystic fibrosis, highlighting the importance of human connection and the desire for intimacy. It also sheds light on the sacrifices and restrictions that come with chronic illness, emphasizing the need to find joy and purpose in the face of adversity.

The motif of distance and proximity is central to the film. The six-feet rule serves as a metaphor for the barriers that people with cystic fibrosis face in forming relationships. It symbolizes the longing for closeness and the constant reminder of the limitations imposed by their condition. The film explores the tension between the desire for connection and the fear of risking one’s health.

Reception and Legacy:

Upon its release, “Five Feet Apart” received mixed reviews from critics. While some praised the performances of Haley Lu Richardson and Cole Sprouse, others felt that the film relied too heavily on clichés. Despite the mixed reception, the film resonated with audiences, particularly those affected by cystic fibrosis or other chronic illnesses.

“Five Feet Apart” was nominated for several awards, including the Teen Choice Award for Choice Drama Movie and the People’s Choice Award for Drama Movie of the Year. The film’s portrayal of cystic fibrosis and its impact on relationships sparked conversations about the challenges faced by individuals with chronic illnesses.

Recommendation:

“Five Feet Apart” is a heartfelt and emotional film that explores the complexities of love and illness. It offers a poignant portrayal of the challenges faced by individuals with cystic fibrosis and the importance of human connection. While the film may not be groundbreaking in its storytelling, it is a touching and thought-provoking watch that will leave viewers reflecting on the fragility of life and the power of love.

Memorable Quote:

“Life isn’t measured in inches or feet. It’s the moments that take your breath away.” – Stella Grant