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10

Compi24Jun 12, 2015

"Me And Earl And The Dying Girl" perfectly synthesizes Wes Anderson and John Hughes's filmic tones, earnestly gutpunches the audience's collective heart with honest pathos, and achieves a bullseye in the follow-through of nearly every joke it"Me And Earl And The Dying Girl" perfectly synthesizes Wes Anderson and John Hughes's filmic tones, earnestly gutpunches the audience's collective heart with honest pathos, and achieves a bullseye in the follow-through of nearly every joke it delivers. In short, it wins. Take a victory lap Alfonso Gomez-Rejon.… Expand

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8

NightReviewsJul 8, 2015

THIS IS THE PART THAT I BEGIN MY REVIEW AND INTRODUCE THE FILM WITH A CLEVER HOOK

You would never think that a title with the words “dying girl” would be the most buzzed about film at Sundance 2015, causing a bidding war that wouldTHIS IS THE PART THAT I BEGIN MY REVIEW AND INTRODUCE THE FILM WITH A CLEVER HOOK

You would never think that a title with the words “dying girl” would be the most buzzed about film at Sundance 2015, causing a bidding war that would eventually be won by Fox Searchlight Pictures for a whopping $12 million, the largest distribution purchase in the history of the fest. But alas, Me and Earl and the Dying Girl is a true testament to the power of YA pop culture, and a young adult film infused with the current obsession with cancer-driven teen fiction.

Following in the footsteps of the widely popular The Fault in Our Stars and my personal favourite cancer-comedy 50/50, Me and Earl and the Dying Girl is a mix of both, with a hint of 500 Days of Summer in for good indie measure.

Thankfully, Me and Earl and the Dying Girl is miles ahead of the aforementioned Stars and is easily one of the most wryly self-aware and raucously comedic films of the year.

The ironic aspect of Me and Earl is that cancer has never really been at the front-row of comedy in the real world. Although it is one of the most devastating diseases of our time, consuming the lives of many loved ones, cancer, in this instance, sets up one of the most endearing and authentic cinematic friendships seen on screen, in a very long time.

Now if you are all thinking, how in the hell is a film about a very pending friendship between two boys and a girl recently diagnosed with leukaemia one of the funniest and best films of the year? All I’d have to say is “Respect the Research” and find out for yourself.

THIS IS THE PART WHERE I EXPLAIN MY COMMENTARIES ON THE FILM

One of the many (and I’m talking about a ton) charms of Me and Earl is its ability to share so many universal and relatable truths to its audience. The fact remains, Rachel Kushner (Olivia Cooke) is a seventeen-year old girl who is recently diagnosed with Leukaemia. Greg Gaines (Thomas Mann) is a smart-talking, quick responding, social leper who has serious issues with the word friendship and a great appreciation for hipster and event-garde culture (including Warhol, Herzog and B-films). Earl (RJ Cyler), the innocent by-stander in all of this, is your typical high-schooler who obsesses mostly with **** Yet, these three unique characters and the serious and lighthearted issues they face in a small Pittsburg high school offer some of the most insightful and emotional responses from an audience in the year 2015.

Based on Jesse Andrews’ book of the same name, the author was able to adapt his own book into a screenplay, keeping its infectious charm and wit intact. Luckily for us, Andrews’ book has been described as a book made to be read by anyone; anyone who has gone to high school, anyone who has lost someone they love, or grew up with a family, or has wondered what life is all about.

Directed by Alfonso Gomez-Rejon, a sophomore feature following his debut horror film The Town That Dreaded Sundown, the film blends a very inauspicious mix of quirk at first by beginning the story with an abundance of stop-motion animation, flashbacks, and some very obvious film-school favourites including; the long take; pans; and long shots. Rejon, who began his career as a personal assistant to Martin Scorsese, shows his range as a charming director who is able to not only amp up the quirk factor, but also get the best performances from his actors and characters to help narrate the story to uncontrollable moments of laughter. Much like its main character Greg (Thomas Mann) and his inability to obtain normal friendships or accept the obvious classes created in any high school setting, Rejon embraces the main essence of Andrews’ novel, loss and love and stays true to its unique nerdiness, owning every second of it.

THIS IS THE PART WHERE I…TALK

It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, and for the most part, Me and Earl and the Dying Girl is easily one of the most satisfying films of 2015, and not for the usual ingredients that make an indie film so great either. While most indie films are applauded and hailed for their quirky soundtracks, incredible acting discoveries, and new finds, Me and Earl has an interesting quality of brining back the old, and making it cool again. Rejon, an obvious film enthusiast and lover of classics (Criterion quality to B-movie selections) sends great satisfaction of allowing his feature of reminiscing on these classic films in a fringe-type cinematic wet dream. His rehashing, mockery yet clear praise and reference to classic films shows his great admiration and love for film as a whole. While Greg and Earl half-heartedly remake some of their favourtite films, we get a clear sense of what makes them great friends, their ability to embrace their immaturity and playfulness. Rejon pulls it off through and through, that boys will be boys, while Mann and Cyler really hit that notion out of the par throughout each scene.… Expand

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9

BrianMcCriticSep 20, 2015

I'll admit I'm a sucker for these coming of age films and this one is no exception. The performances are great from all these young actors. Finally I really appreciated the way they mixed comedy and drama by creating those fun movies. A

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9

Movi3R3vi3werJul 8, 2015

What a quirky film this is, I LOVED IT. Hands down one of the best films I have seen so far in the year 2015. Sweet. clever, gust bustingly hilarious, emotionally powerful, well acted with an excellent screenplay to top it off. DirectorWhat a quirky film this is, I LOVED IT. Hands down one of the best films I have seen so far in the year 2015. Sweet. clever, gust bustingly hilarious, emotionally powerful, well acted with an excellent screenplay to top it off. Director Alfonso Gomez-Rejon crafts one of the most unique looking movies of the year, this is his own style of film making that made it even more special. This is a movie made for movie fans and I loved every second of it from start to finish.… Expand

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9

ThedomatoneJul 5, 2015

This is a Brilliant coming of age / teen romance movie lovers picture. It is clear from the outset that the film makers behind this are fans of Cinema and it is unabashedly displayed throughout this piece. from the stunning dialogue to theThis is a Brilliant coming of age / teen romance movie lovers picture. It is clear from the outset that the film makers behind this are fans of Cinema and it is unabashedly displayed throughout this piece. from the stunning dialogue to the carefully constructed composition this picture has shot to the top of my list for this year. I can not recommend it more.… Expand

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7

whitewindJul 15, 2015

"Me and Earl" is a very good movie, but not as great as the critics would have one believe. The beginning, especially, wanders over the teenage angst map, and I wondered if it was going to be worthwhile at all. As the movie progresses, and we"Me and Earl" is a very good movie, but not as great as the critics would have one believe. The beginning, especially, wanders over the teenage angst map, and I wondered if it was going to be worthwhile at all. As the movie progresses, and we learn about Olivia Cooke's cancer, it gets down to cases, and begins to show dramatic progress. It never really completely comes together as a story, but it is watchable. Knowing what we do now, I probably would have waited until it became available as streaming or DVD.… Expand

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8

fungusgnatAug 9, 2015

Fine performances, an offbeat musical score, and Greg’s not-always-reliable narrative voice lift what might have been an ordinary weepie into indie heaven, as director, writer, and cast get it all right—or just about all right (the lessFine performances, an offbeat musical score, and Greg’s not-always-reliable narrative voice lift what might have been an ordinary weepie into indie heaven, as director, writer, and cast get it all right—or just about all right (the less positive reviews make some good points, but such worries did not intrude much on my enjoyment or appreciation of the film ).… Expand

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8

emperorpenguinOct 4, 2015

Me and Earl and the Dying Girl is a very well and uniquely directed movie by Alfonso Gomez-Rejon. We've seen some similar movies to this but this movie can find the balance and the right placement between the humor and the sad part of theMe and Earl and the Dying Girl is a very well and uniquely directed movie by Alfonso Gomez-Rejon. We've seen some similar movies to this but this movie can find the balance and the right placement between the humor and the sad part of the story. This movie is equally well acted by the entire cast especially Thomas Mann who can play an awkward character realistically without me feeling awkward watching it.
This movie is also beautifully written by the author of the book which I think it's very important as he can tell very deeply about the main important character he created, Greg. I think it's interesting how He wrote Greg and Rachel as the realest characters in this movie and make others as these comical and not so serious supporting characters. I think it's important because this whole movie is supposed to tell how this dying girl can somehow change Greg's view in life. And we get to see all of that in a very deep personal way without getting distracted by the supporting cast. I also love how this movie is wrapped up with such a clear and positive message.… Expand

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8

Brent_MarchantJun 14, 2015

A funny, deeply affecting comedy-drama about the trials of growing up (and having to do so faster than expected). Despite the picture's YA protagonists, this is anything but YA fare, incisively written and with smart portrayals beyond theA funny, deeply affecting comedy-drama about the trials of growing up (and having to do so faster than expected). Despite the picture's YA protagonists, this is anything but YA fare, incisively written and with smart portrayals beyond the performers' years. The film takes viewers on an emotional rollercoaster ride through a series of highs and lows, all filled with wit and an array of clever, laugh-out-loud classic film references. Keep those hankies handy, too.… Expand

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8

tvnewsguidoSep 26, 2015

A film that manages to rise above the average "dying teen" drama.

This one kind of sucked me in. I sat down ready to see yet another "cute teen with cancer" story and really got swept up in this fairly odd suburban fantasy. While youA film that manages to rise above the average "dying teen" drama.

This one kind of sucked me in. I sat down ready to see yet another "cute teen with cancer" story and really got swept up in this fairly odd suburban fantasy.

While you will find all the John Green tropes that have proved so popular of late with the YA set, Alfonso Gomez-Rejon elevates the material with a practiced eye and a true understanding of the awkwardness of certain moments. The script is effortlessly clever and surprisingly funny.

Prepare to give it all your attention for the 100 minutes required.… Expand

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10

carlosgzOct 26, 2015

Hipster came to mind while I watched this film. Then I reasoned: this is so unlike any other coming-of-age film. It's not necessarily hipster, it's just completely unique. Alejandro Gomez-Rejon crafted such a human film led by unlikeableHipster came to mind while I watched this film. Then I reasoned: this is so unlike any other coming-of-age film. It's not necessarily hipster, it's just completely unique. Alejandro Gomez-Rejon crafted such a human film led by unlikeable characters. The actors made me see their complex characters through their raw performances. I love love loved the film. It's beautiful. Witty, too.

I feel like I could watch this film endlessly and would still shed tears from sadness and laughter.… Expand

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10

FarhanFirozOct 2, 2015

This is one of the most underrated and best movies of this year. The movie is flawless. The plot was so simple and great. The casting was perfect and everyone gave their best performance. The characters were so relatable which makes the movieThis is one of the most underrated and best movies of this year. The movie is flawless. The plot was so simple and great. The casting was perfect and everyone gave their best performance. The characters were so relatable which makes the movie even more interesting . The movie teaches us so many lessons like girls and boys can still be friends , the friends you know may surprise you and more. The last act of the movie is the best last act I've seen this year. It will destroy you thoroughly emotionally. I can guarantee 90% people will cry at the end. The score was absolutely great. The cinematography was so good and unique from other Hollywood movies. The movie even has a great twisted sense of humour.

In the end I recommend everyone to watch this movie as soon as possible.… Expand

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8

RvwFromUpHereMay 24, 2016

Who: Thomas Mann, Ron Swanson, New Frank Castle, and Superstar as Denise Kushner
What: A similar high school experience to mine except my girlfriend wasn't dying, my chemistry teacher wasn't from The Walking Dead and my best friend was whiteWho: Thomas Mann, Ron Swanson, New Frank Castle, and Superstar as Denise Kushner
What: A similar high school experience to mine except my girlfriend wasn't dying, my chemistry teacher wasn't from The Walking Dead and my best friend was white
Where: The most entertaining place in the world to watch, but you would jump off of a bridge before you went back: High School
When (Can I watch again): When you're on a date and you want something more serious than Date Night, or any Rom Com ever
Why: This is an original coming of age story that you truly shouldn't miss out on if you're a fan of Perks of Being a Wallflower or John Hughes… Expand

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10

JanKrevatinJul 30, 2016

Beautifully told sorry. Script is amazing, not made in a mainstream way. Direction is great. The movie is definetly worth watching. This film will be something I will not forget.

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7

smiyamotNov 21, 2015

A movie about teenagers facing death of one of their own. To see how they handled it emotionally was the crux of the movie and it was well done. But the subplots left me wanting.

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7

Xan_RyilDec 3, 2015

A very cute sequel to The Fault in Our Stars, only without romance and lesser characters. Movie is very peculiar about one character only through out and at the end we get to know what goes on in Rachel's head. Which is most touching moment.A very cute sequel to The Fault in Our Stars, only without romance and lesser characters. Movie is very peculiar about one character only through out and at the end we get to know what goes on in Rachel's head. Which is most touching moment. While it is very neat and touching, I wished there were little more complexity and length.… Expand

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10

InglouriousAndyMay 19, 2016

A tragic, beautiful, uplifting testament to youth, friendship, and maturity. Endlessly powerful and hilarious. The acting is fantastic and the writing is clever. See this movie now!

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10

The3AcademySinsNov 8, 2018

This is one of the most underrated and unknown arthouse dramas I have ever seen. This movie touched me in ways that I did not know movies could, and I love movies! The story nails highschool as I knew it in the 2000s decade, and I reallyThis is one of the most underrated and unknown arthouse dramas I have ever seen. This movie touched me in ways that I did not know movies could, and I love movies! The story nails highschool as I knew it in the 2000s decade, and I really related to all of the characters. I don't want to say too much about this movie, but this is honestly one of the best movies I have ever seen, and if you are a serious film lover, don't look up too much about this movie, just watch it blind, and you will be blown away.… Expand

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8

ZachSchellerAug 14, 2016

As creative and original as it is moving and funny. Me and Earl and the Dying Girl brings clarity and humor to a time and situation that are confusing and humorless.

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3

GreatMartinJun 26, 2015

Though I hate to limit myself, regarding genres of movies, after last week’s “Dope” and this week’s “Me And Earl And The Dying Girl” (from here on refereed to as “Earl”) each about 3 nerdy/geek kids and each, seemingly, critic’s darlings, IThough I hate to limit myself, regarding genres of movies, after last week’s “Dope” and this week’s “Me And Earl And The Dying Girl” (from here on refereed to as “Earl”) each about 3 nerdy/geek kids and each, seemingly, critic’s darlings, I think I will add teenage movies about nerds to my list with westerns, horror, violent, raunchy boy/man, comic strip and most sci-fi pictures I will avoid seeing. (Hey, I am looking forward to “Magic Mike XXL” next week, what can I tell you?)

In the case of “Earl” and “Dope” I think there is definitely a very wide generation gap. The last time I saw my teens was 60 years ago and though I enjoyed “The Fault Is In Our Stars” last year it was more of a drama than teenage angst. There is some humor in “Earl” regarding the movies that Earl (RJ Cyler) and Geg (the ‘Me’-- Thomas Mann) make redoing classics, especially the titles they give their films. Olivia Cooke is certainly endearing as ‘the dying girl, Rachel, while Greg grows up over the course of the film and Earl is a wise young man before his time.

Molly Shannon as Rachel’s single mother and Connie Britton as Greg’s mother, both overbearing parents, along with Nick Offerman as his beatnik father---by the way Earl doesn’t have any parents and lives with his older brother who threatens Greg with telling him his dog will bite off his face--and Jon Bernthal as a teacher and, more or less, a guidance counselor to the boys, are sort of annoying adults you will find in most pictures about teenagers though the latter less than the others.

“Earl” is being sold as a comedy, a sort of John Hughes movie with lessons to be learned. Greg is constantly reminding the audience--there is a lot of voice over-- that Rachel doesn’t die and there are screen titles telling the passing of time and where we are at in the story. As a social misfit Thomas Mann carries the film and RJ Cyer is his effective sidekick and shows his many sides. Olivia Cooke is endearing as the dying girl who has leukemia and is very instrumental is helping Greg grow up.

The direction by Alfonso Gomez-Rejon is all over the place, somewhat like the movies the boys make, while the screenplay by Jesse Andrews, who wrote the best selling novel, is low key without trying to tell the audience how to feel. The director of photography shows off Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, almost always in a glow of light, even in the night scenes.

I laughed once and that was the boys film take-off of “Midnight Cowboy” with the “Everybody’s Talking” theme song and, for a comedy, laughing once is not a good endorsement.

I left the theatre wondering whatever happened to the girl who got stood up on prom night--maybe that’s the sequel?… Expand

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7

nascentSep 21, 2015

Film script tries too hard. It's not a bad film, but the first 35-40 minutes is a bit weak, and generally it falls flat. The characters are cardboard cut-out, and they're written to be more interesting than they are, for instance it'sFilm script tries too hard. It's not a bad film, but the first 35-40 minutes is a bit weak, and generally it falls flat. The characters are cardboard cut-out, and they're written to be more interesting than they are, for instance it's unbelievable that lead had a perfect intricate social system in school as it pretty much falls apart the moment you try to depict it on screen. Earl is written as a stereotypical 'black guy' with no depth. Lots of inconsistencies in the film, such as being raised on foreign speciality foods, but insulting people eating foreign speciality foods, and Greg's personality in general. In fact pretty much all the characters are unlikeable. Rachel's the most likeable character, but of course she would be as a Manic Pixie Dream Girl.

Anything that pays homage to classic films seems to be massively overhyped by critics, and any drama about cancer seems to get massively overhyped too in the same way Be Kind Rewind (2008) was overhyped 7 years ago and 50/50 was overhyped 4 years ago. So this film, focusing on both, seems to be getting far more attention than I believe it deserves. Honestly I don't see this being any better than 2002's A Night To Remember.

That being said the short films (or at least what we as an audience get to see of them) are pretty cool, and honestly I'd have preferred if that took more of a centrepiece of the movie for the first half, and the characters developed more fluidly, as the actual script and characters is bland.… Expand

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4

hotfromcauldronJun 12, 2015

Earl” suffers from too muchitis. Voice over over kill and labeled scenes make dialogue redundant
as we are told what to think and even what not to think! Twice! So we shut off our brains become
less engaged and emotionally disconnected forEarl” suffers from too muchitis. Voice over over kill and labeled scenes make dialogue redundant
as we are told what to think and even what not to think! Twice! So we shut off our brains become
less engaged and emotionally disconnected for the first 100 minutes. All this drowns in Ryan Murphyistic stylization- who knows how to balance it with crazy plot and even crazier characters. Casting also hits and misses - Earl and Me good- but the dying girl has been doing a nice job for the past two seasons dying on the TV series Bates Motel while being the object of an outcast teen’s fixation. Sound familiar? And when the moment we’ve been waiting for finally comes- the impact is quickly dissipated - by more voice over from here and beyond. It is the best of films. It is the worst of films.… Expand

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7

TVJerryJun 29, 2015

Unlike "The Fault in Our Stars," which approaches teen cancer as a romance, this film goes for a quirky approach. Thomas Mann plays a high school senior, pressured by his mother to spend time with a classmate (Olivia Cooke) who has leukemia.Unlike "The Fault in Our Stars," which approaches teen cancer as a romance, this film goes for a quirky approach. Thomas Mann plays a high school senior, pressured by his mother to spend time with a classmate (Olivia Cooke) who has leukemia. He and his best friend (RJ Cyler) also make parodies of great films, a subplot that provides some witty cinema in-jokes (stay thru the credits for a complete list of titles). The film's eccentric humor is often clever and fun, although it sometimes try too hard. Once the story hits rocky ground, things quickly fall into emotional drama. Director Alfonso Gomez-Rejon has peppered the proceedings with witty angles (literally and figuratively) that add to the movie's oddball charms.… Expand