(500) Days of Summer

Not just your average rom-com, (500) Days of Summer ads an imaginative new touch to the very familiar story of boy-meets-girl. It follows the story of Tom (Joseph Gordon-Levitt) and Summer (Zooey Deschanel) in their non chronological romance. Right off the bat we are told this is not a love story, yet everything in our viewing history and perceived direction of the movie would suggest otherwise. (500) Days presents the relationship between Tom and Summer through Tom’s eyes who at first refuses to see things as they are, only as he wants them to be. Gradually, we receive his whole sad story, but with some confusion along the way.

        The exceptional focus for the film, and what makes (500) Days work so well, is most importantly the editing. The cuts all throughout their relationship, from day 1 all the way to 500, are what allows us to see the story laid out like memories from the main character we’re supposed to be connecting with. Having the pieces slowly fall together, as opposed to simply laying out in front of us, is what makes the story so fresh and compelling. In addition to this is the fantastic dynamic between Deschanel and Gordon-Levitt, who bring their characters to life in a way no other pairing could have. The soundtrack is another element that aids the film very fantastically.  It ranges from subtle tonal creations to an entire song and dance number to Hall and Oats’ “You Make My Dreams”. It works just as a soundtrack should, subtly creating the backdrop for their relationship, yet being noticeable enough to parallel the emotions on screen. Songs like Regina Spektor’s “Hero” are haunting and is essential in portraying the bleak reality that we always hope will live up to our own impossible expectations on life.

        Director Mark Webb, previously a music video director, makes his film debut with a memorable and wonderful off-beat comedy that highlights the aspects of life we don’t always want to remember in the movies: sometimes things don’t go as we expect them to. Utilizing harsh, juxtaposing cuts, montages, split screen life comparisons, and in-film documentaries, Webb creates a world centered around the two characters that is as interesting as their twisted relationship. The visual dynamic between the characters is constantly changing and out of order, one that is happy in one instant, and devastating in the next, yet always manages to envelop and display these emotions exactly. (500) Days of Summer captures the essence of dysfunctional and blissful relationships alike, while being witty and humorous, and a refreshing take on a story we thought we all knew.