Release: 2009-07-17
Runtime: 1h 35m (95 minutes)
Tom, greeting-card writer and hopeless romantic, is caught completely off-guard when his girlfriend, Summer, suddenly dumps him. He reflects on their 500 days together to try to figure out where their love affair went sour, and in doing so, Tom rediscovers his true passions in life.
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Genres: Drama, Comedy, Romance
Cast: Chloë Grace Moretz, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Zooey Deschanel, more
Chloë Grace Moretz
as Rachel
Joseph Gordon-Levitt
as Tom
Zooey Deschanel
as Summer
Minka Kelly
as Autumn
Patricia Belcher
as Millie
Clark Gregg
as Vance
Matthew Gray Gubler
as Paul
Geoffrey Arend
as McKenzie
Rachel Boston
as Alison
Richard McGonagle
as Narrator (voice)
Gustavo Carr
as Dancer
Jennifer Lee Keyes
as Dancer
Tom, greeting-card writer and hopeless romantic, is caught completely off-guard when his girlfriend, Summer, suddenly dumps him. He reflects on their 500 days together to try to figure out where their love affair went sour, and in doing so, Tom rediscovers his true passions in life.
This is not a love story. This is a story about love.
(500) Days of Summer is a 2009 romantic comedy-drama directed by Marc Webb, featuring a unique structure that flips between different days in the 500 days of Tom and Summer’s relationship. The film stars Joseph Gordon-Levitt as Tom Hansen, an aspiring architect who writes greeting cards, and Zooey Deschanel as Summer Finn, a new employee at his company. Together, they explore themes of love and heartbreak, all while Tom narrates his experience with Summer.
This film was produced by an independent team and was later distributed by Fox Searchlight Pictures. It premiered at the 25th Sundance Film Festival on 17 January 2009 and officially opened in the United States on 7 August 2009. The movie was made on a budget of $7.5 million and grossed over $60.7 million worldwide, marking it as a sleeper hit.
Plot Summary
Tom believes in true love, while Summer is more skeptical. They bond over their shared taste in music and begin a casual relationship. As their romance progresses, Tom's desire for more commitment clashes with Summer's reluctance to define their relationship. After several months, Summer ends things, leading Tom into a downward spiral of depression and self-reflection.
During a chance encounter months later, Tom learns that Summer has gotten married. This meeting prompts him to reassess his past with her and eventually leads him to find hope again. The film closes with Tom meeting a woman named Autumn, hinting at new possibilities.
Character Highlights
The film presents a collage of romantic highs and painful lows, ultimately offering an honest portrayal of love that resonates with many viewers. Critics have praised the film for its originality, character depth, and emotional authenticity, drawing comparisons to classic films like Annie Hall and High Fidelity.
Awards and Recognition
Critically acclaimed, the film received several awards, including the Best Original Screenplay and Best Screenplay at the Satellite Awards and Independent Spirit Awards, respectively. It also received nominations for two Golden Globe Awards, including Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy.
On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds an approval rating of 85%, with critics noting its clever and refreshing take on romance. Viewers have recognized it as a modern classic, often revisiting its themes of love and self-discovery.
Cultural Impact
Over the years, (500) Days of Summer has gained a strong following and has been analyzed for its portrayal of relationships in contemporary society. The film resonates particularly with those who experience heartbreak and the journey to self-acceptance. This nuanced exploration of romance serves as a reflection of the complexities of modern love.
