Five Feet Apart

*Five Feet Apart* is a 2019 romantic drama film directed by Justin Baldoni. The movie is based on a screenplay by Mikki Daughtry and Tobias Iaconis, inspired by the novel of the same name by Rachael Lippincott. The story follows two teenagers, Stella Grant and Will Newman, both of whom suffer from cystic fibrosis (CF), a genetic disorder that affects the lungs and digestive system.

The film’s title comes from the strict hospital rule that patients with cystic fibrosis must maintain a distance of at least six feet from one another to avoid cross-infection. However, Stella and Will decide to bend that rule slightly, and the title refers to the five feet they maintain as a symbolic gesture of their desire for a closer relationship.

**Plot Summary:**
Stella (played by Cole Sprouse) is a disciplined, organized young woman who has lived most of her life managing CF. Will (played by Haley Lu Richardson) is a rebellious, cynical teenager who is struggling with his CF treatments. Their paths cross when they both receive treatment at the same hospital, and though they are initially wary of each other, they eventually form a deep connection.

Despite the constraints of their illness, they fall in love, but their relationship is challenged by the reality of their condition, including the risks of close physical contact and the possibility of infection. The characters navigate the emotional and physical challenges of cystic fibrosis, balancing their longing for intimacy with the need to stay safe.

The movie is a poignant exploration of love, loss, and living in the face of chronic illness, with a focus on the strength of relationships even when faced with life-threatening circumstances. The theme of “five feet apart” highlights the idea of maintaining closeness emotionally, even if physical proximity must be limited due to health concerns.

**Reception:**
*Five Feet Apart* was generally well-received for its heartfelt portrayal of young love and its handling of cystic fibrosis. The performances of Sprouse and Richardson were praised for their emotional depth. However, some critics noted that the film followed familiar tropes of the “sick lit” genre and that its plot relied on emotional manipulation at times.

Despite this, it resonated with audiences, particularly those who have experienced similar struggles with chronic illness or have loved ones affected by it.