(500) Days of Summer - A Movie Review
'(500) Days of Summer' is a well-written and touching love story.
Always give love a chance - not just once.
(500) Days of Summer is a 2009 film about a man who falls in love with a woman named Summer who is skeptical about love. Trying to figure out where their relationship stands in these 500 days, they try to obtain a definition regarding the true meaning of love.
I was curious to watch this film after receiving Chris Stuckmann’s Movie Recommendations book as a gift for my birthday. Thinking that it was going to be one of those typical love stories I was actually wrong about it. (500) Days of Summer is creative storytelling about a love story told from a different perspective and finding your true calling.
Tom wants to find love. In genius storytelling, I like how this film is told from the male perspective instead of the female perspective which we always see in most love stories. Joseph Gordon-Levitt was splendid in his role exploring various emotions and a deep-rooted lesson.
I enjoyed the little dance montage in the middle of the film because he is so happy to be in love with Summer. Though after watching this film and viewing evidence regarding Tom’s behavior around Summer, he was obsessive forcing this relationship.
Because the film is told from Tom’s perspective, one should watch this film a second time to understand Summer’s side of the story. Zooey Deschanel was wonderful in her part. Summer proclaims that she is happy being on her own and that she does not need someone to make herself feel fulfilled. I believe that Summer makes an exceptional point. Explore while you’re young.
Not all love stories are perfect. The first person that you fall in love with is not going to be the one. Gordon-Levitt and Deschanel’s interactions were sweet and well-acted.
Audiences are in for a few surprises from the supporting cast. Geoffrey Arand and Matthew Gray Gubler were funny trying to help Tom with his love story. Other credits include Clark Gregg, Patricia Belcher, Rachel Boston, Minka Kelly, and even a short appearance by Yvette Nicole Brown who Drake and Josh fans know well.
Chloe Grace Moretz needed to be in this film more! This film has become one of my favorite roles of Moretz. As Tom’s younger (very young) sister, she is loyal to him giving her brother advice that he needs. This sibling relationship intrigued me and I would have liked to see their storyline expanded more.
This film would have been a very different story if it were told from Summer’s perspective. (500) Days of Summer succeeds as a well-written story. I like stories that are told out of order. Audiences get subtle clues, making the plot more intriguing. It’s also a creative way to get inside Tom’s head implying that he is thinking back to each memory examining his interactions with Summer more closely.
Marc Webb directed a complex approach to a love story. His angle refreshes audiences with a new perspective and a vast idea of telling the story. Love is the hardest topic when encountered by any director. He captured emotions, simplicity, and subtly.
Give love a chance, let it grow, and if something is not working out it’s okay to move on. Forcing love to work or spending life in denial is never the answer. It’s also important to pay attention to your own career. Change is possible. The film did a nice job of exploring career options, especially while you are young.
I had fun watching (500) Days of Summer. It is a very touching story. I recommend it to anyone who is searching for a new romantic comedy.
About the Creator
Marielle Sabbag
Writing has been my passion since I was 11 years old. I love creating stories from fiction, poetry, fanfiction. I enjoy writing movie reviews. I would love to become a creative writing teacher and leave the world inspiring minds.
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Words and Pictures - A Movie Review
A picture is worth a thousand words. What’s the truth? Words and Pictures is a 2013 film. An English teacher and an art teacher compete in a competition. Which is more important? Words or visuals? In this competition, the lesson broadens their minds to horizons they never thought of.
By Marielle Sabbag4 years ago in Humans
Try an ‘Airport Divorce’ if You Want to Stay a Happy Couple
Traveling together can be exciting, but for many couples, it’s also a source of stress. From missed flights to lost luggage, delays, and cramped airport lounges, the pressure can turn even the strongest relationships into a battleground. That’s where the concept of the “airport divorce” comes in — a simple, intentional separation at the airport that could help couples stay happy, even when traveling together. What Is an Airport Divorce? The term may sound dramatic, but it’s far from it. An airport divorce doesn’t mean ending a marriage; rather, it’s a playful way of describing a temporary, intentional separation at the airport before traveling. The idea is simple: couples part ways at the terminal — or even just for a few hours during the check-in and security process — to avoid unnecessary stress, conflict, or micro-arguments during the travel experience. In essence, it’s about creating a mental and emotional buffer that allows both partners to decompress, reset, and rejoin each other in a better frame of mind once the journey begins. Why Travel Can Strain Relationships Even couples who usually get along well can experience friction while traveling. Common sources of tension include: Planning disagreements: Who packs what? Who decides the itinerary? Time pressure: Airports are stressful, and missed flights can create anxiety. Financial concerns: Travel expenses often spark arguments, from tickets to meals and souvenirs. Decision fatigue: Constantly choosing where to eat, what to see, or which seat to take can wear anyone down. Studies show that couples under stress during travel are more likely to argue and feel frustrated, which can cast a shadow over the entire trip. How an Airport Divorce Helps The airport divorce works as a preventive strategy. By giving each partner a small window of personal space before embarking, couples can: Reduce pre-flight tension: Instead of rushing together, each partner focuses on their own checklist and responsibilities. Reset emotions: Briefly stepping apart allows individuals to breathe and regain perspective, avoiding minor conflicts. Enhance appreciation: Separating temporarily can make reunions at the gate or on the plane feel more rewarding. Encourage autonomy: Each person manages part of the travel process, reducing dependency-related stress. The result? Couples arrive at their destination calmer, happier, and ready to enjoy the trip together. Implementing an Airport Divorce Here’s how couples can try an airport divorce effectively: Agree in advance: Discuss the concept before your trip so both partners understand the goal. Set clear boundaries: Decide how long you’ll be apart at the airport and where you’ll meet afterward. Use technology wisely: Stay connected via text or calls, but avoid excessive check-ins that undermine the separation. Focus on your own tasks: Whether it’s checking bags, grabbing coffee, or passing security, use the time constructively. The key is to treat the airport divorce as a lighthearted, intentional pause, not a source of tension. Psychological Benefits Psychologists highlight several benefits to this approach: Reduces conflict triggers: A few minutes of separation helps prevent arguments over minor travel annoyances. Increases patience and tolerance: Giving each other space fosters empathy and understanding. Improves emotional regulation: Partners can manage stress individually, rather than projecting frustration onto one another. Strengthens the relationship: Short periods of intentional distance can make couples appreciate each other more, promoting long-term harmony. In essence, a small act of separation can lead to big emotional gains. When It Works Best Airport divorces aren’t just for long-haul flights or business travel. They work best in situations like: Family trips: Avoid friction when traveling with kids or in large groups. High-stress journeys: International flights, early-morning departures, or layovers. Busy travel seasons: Holidays and peak vacation times when airports are crowded. Even couples who normally travel well together can benefit from this technique when the environment is especially hectic. Beyond Airports: Applying the Concept in Daily Life Interestingly, the airport divorce concept can extend beyond travel. Couples can benefit from brief, intentional separations in everyday life: Taking short solo walks after a disagreement Spending a few hours pursuing hobbies independently Scheduling personal downtime to decompress after work or family obligations The principle remains the same: space fosters perspective, calm, and appreciation, improving relationship satisfaction. A Fun, Modern Relationship Hack While the term “airport divorce” might raise eyebrows, many couples report that it’s a fun and surprisingly effective strategy. Social media and relationship blogs are filled with anecdotes of couples who now approach travel with humor, rather than stress, thanks to this simple technique. By reframing temporary separation as a tool for connection rather than division, couples can turn potentially tense travel moments into opportunities for bonding. Conclusion Traveling together doesn’t have to be a test of patience and endurance. By embracing the idea of an airport divorce, couples can reduce stress, prevent arguments, and arrive at their destinations calmer and happier. It’s a small, intentional act that protects the relationship, improves emotional regulation, and creates a more enjoyable travel experience. For anyone who dreads the stress of airports, security lines, and long flights, this quirky, modern relationship hack might be the key to staying a happy couple on the road — and in life.
By Muhammad Hassan5 days ago in Humans
Center Stage with Paul Stewart
*** I'm keen to republish the interviews I did for my series with Vocal creators. It's been a few years and I thought it might be nice to revisit these wonderful conversations. I'll be releasing them one at a time for a few weeks/months.
By Heather Hubler3 days ago in Interview
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