

Five Feet Apart
Seventeen-year-old Stella spends most of her time in the hospital as a cystic fibrosis patient. Her life is full of routines, boundaries and self-control — all of which get put to the test when she meets Will, an impossibly charming teen who has the same illness. There's an instant flirtation, though restrictions dictate that they must maintain a safe distance between them. As their connection intensifies, so does the temptation to throw the rules out the window and embrace that attraction.
Insights
Plot Summary
Stella Grant is a teenage girl living with cystic fibrosis, which requires her to diligently follow a strict regimen to manage her health. Her life takes an unexpected turn when she meets Will Newman, another cystic fibrosis patient. Despite the mandatory five-foot separation rule for CF patients to prevent cross-infection, Stella and Will find themselves drawn to each other, challenging the boundaries of their illness and their hearts.
Critical Reception
Five Feet Apart received mixed reviews from critics, who often found the premise compelling but criticized its execution as overly sentimental and predictable. Audiences, however, generally responded more positively, drawn to the emotional story and the chemistry between the lead actors. The film was a commercial success, resonating with younger viewers and those who appreciated its exploration of living with a chronic illness and finding love.
What Reviewers Say
- The film's central romance is engaging, largely due to the chemistry between its leads.
- While aiming for emotional depth, it occasionally falls into melodramatic territory.
- The portrayal of living with cystic fibrosis is handled with sensitivity, though dramatized for narrative effect.
Google audience: Viewers appreciated the touching and emotional story, particularly the performances of Haley Lu Richardson and Cole Sprouse. Many found the film to be a moving depiction of love and resilience in the face of illness, though some noted it was a tear-jerker.
Fun Fact
The film was praised for its accurate and sensitive portrayal of cystic fibrosis, with the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation consulting on the script and advocating for the five-foot rule's importance.
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