50/50 (2011)
A sharp, tender comedy-drama about facing cancer at 27 — with your best friend by your side and the odds stacked at fifty-fifty.
50/50 - Movie Information
- Original Title: 50/50
- Release Year: 2011
- Directed by: Jonathan Levine
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Comedy, Drama
- Age Rating (US): R
- Runtime: 1h 40m
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- Release Date (Theatrical): September 30, 2011 (Brazil - 14), September 30, 2011 (United States - R), September 30, 2011 (Canada - PG), November 25, 2011 (United Kingdom - 15), May 3, 2012 (Germany - 12), November 16, 2011 (France - TP), March 8, 2012 (Australia - MA15+), February 24, 2012 (Italy), November 24, 2011 (South Korea - 15)
- Alternative Titles: 50 50 (FR), 50% (BR), 50 50 (ES), 50 50 Freunde fürs (Über)Leben (DE), Fifti-fifti (HU), Live with It (US), 50.50 (MX), 50 50 (SV)
- Production Companies: Mandate Pictures, Point Grey Pictures
- Production Countries: United States of America
50/50 - Plot
Inspired by a true story, a comedy centered on a 27-year-old guy who learns of his cancer diagnosis and his subsequent struggle to beat the disease.
50/50 - Trailer
See the official trailer and get a feel for the film's unique blend of humor and heart:
It takes a pair to beat the odds.
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50/50 - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Jonathan Levine
Main Cast
- Joseph Gordon-Levitt
- Seth Rogen
- Anna Kendrick
- Bryce Dallas Howard
- Anjelica Huston
- Serge Houde
- Philip Baker Hall
- Matt Frewer
- Andrew Airlie
- Peter Kelamis
Writers
- Will Reiser
Producers
- Evan Goldberg
- Seth Rogen
- Ben Karlin
50/50 - FAQs
What is 50/50 about?
50/50 follows Adam, a 27-year-old who is blindsided by a cancer diagnosis and given a 50% chance of survival. Balancing dark humor with genuine emotion, the film traces his journey through chemotherapy, strained relationships, and the unexpected bonds that help him fight to stay alive.
Is 50/50 based on a true story?
Yes, 50/50 is directly inspired by screenwriter Will Reiser's own cancer diagnosis in his mid-twenties. His real-life friend Seth Rogen, who also produces and stars in the film, was by his side throughout the ordeal, lending the story an authentic emotional core.
Where can you stream 50/50 right now?
You can stream 50/50 on Peacock Premium or Peacock Premium Plus. It's also available to rent or buy on Amazon Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, YouTube, and Fandango At Home — so there are plenty of ways to watch.
Does 50/50 have a happy ending?
Without giving too much away, 50/50 ends on a genuinely hopeful note. The film earns its emotional payoff by never shying away from the fear and uncertainty of serious illness, which makes the resolution feel honest and deeply satisfying rather than artificially upbeat.
Who are the main actors in 50/50?
Joseph Gordon-Levitt leads the film as Adam, with Seth Rogen as his loyal best friend Kyle. Anna Kendrick plays Adam's young therapist Katherine, Bryce Dallas Howard is his girlfriend Rachael, and Anjelica Huston brings warmth and heartbreak as his devoted mother Diane.
Is 50/50 worth watching?
Absolutely. 50/50 earned a 93% critics score on Rotten Tomatoes and an 87% audience score, with widespread praise for its rare ability to be genuinely funny and deeply moving at the same time. Gordon-Levitt's performance in particular is considered one of the best of his career.
Did 50/50 win any awards?
50/50 received strong awards recognition, including a Golden Globe nomination for Joseph Gordon-Levitt for Best Actor in a Musical or Comedy. The film also earned nominations from the Writers Guild of America and the Independent Spirit Awards, cementing its status as a critically admired work.
How does Seth Rogen's real friendship shape the film?
Seth Rogen was Will Reiser's actual best friend during his cancer battle, and that genuine history gives the film its emotional authenticity. Rogen's character Kyle mirrors his real-life role — clumsily devoted, often inappropriate, but fiercely loyal — making the friendship feel lived-in rather than scripted.
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