The Fault in Our Stars

Smart, caustic, funny, this love story will bring you to tears...Take along some tissues and prepare to be manipulated.

You don't need to read the book prior to watching the film, though I did end up reading it after seeing the film, and I suggest you do the same.

This adaptation of John Green's bestselling 2012 young adult novel about a teenage girl in love and living with cancer is far from the shameless emotional pummelling it might have been. It finds its own understated way to earn tears, and that's a tricky thing to pull off given the material.

If you like feel-good, escapist films, this one's not for you. The Fault in Our Stars is one of the most unpretentious tragic love stories told in a heart-warming manner. 'Don't cry because it's over, smile because it happened' pretty much sums up the story.

While the film does get manipulative in places and is practically begging you to bubble, mostly it is infused with warmth, humour and acerbic comments. Scriptwriters do a commendable job in keeping the film funny and engaging and ensuring that the pathos don't overpower us. Even then, carry your kerchiefs. But rest assured, you will come out of the theatre smiling.

Overall, the film tugs at your emotional chord making you laugh and cry at the same time. But what makes the film memorable is that the characters linger in your mental orbit much after you leave the auditorium, making it a fine example of a good cinematic experience.