Hey all,hope you're well.It's been a while since I first seen this film,but I just went to go see it a second time the other day so it's fresh again.Here we go...
Firstly,when compared to the book,this film falls short.In part this may be due to the changes they've made, taking out important character points and most noticeably drastically changing the ending.However I think a more reasonable explanation is that it just might be that the saying 'A picture is worth a thousand words' just might not be applicable here.The book reaches places that the film does not and frankly,cannot.But I tend to feel that this is almost always the case with films based on books.So lets move on.
The film itself is very,very moving.I found intense sympathy in myself for every one of the characters,except Cameron Diaz' Sara Fitzgerald,mother of the dying daughter. She to me appeared selfish and motivated entirely by her own desire to not be without her daughter and not by a pure want for her daughter to live. I cried a lot the first time I watched, and then upon viewing it for a second time found myself just as upset.
The story will capture any viewer and due to the use of flashbacks and narration giving the viewpoint of each character I feel that every member of an audience will find themselves relating to one or more of these troubled characters.
In terms of performances little Abigail Breslin pulls it out of the bag yet again, delivering a solid and moving performance. Soffia Vassilieva blew me away as cancer stricken teen Kate. Cameron Diaz worked well with the rather unsympathetic character that the script seems to have presented her with and I found it to be a refreshing change to see her in something other than a chick flick.
Nothing special in terms of cinematography or music here, but again as noted above, the use of flashbacks and narration from different characters is used effectively.
Overall I would give this film, when not being compared to the book, a 7/10. However when being compared to the plot and characterisation offered by its literary counter part, I would rank this a 5/10.
However if you're up for a weepy,go give it a go.
Until Next Time 
