Hazel Grace Lancaster (Shailene Woodley), a teenager battling stage 4 thyroid cancer, lies in the grass, gazing at the stars. She reflects on the power to choose how we tell our stories, preferring stark honesty over sugarcoated versions.
Living with Cancer Hazel’s constant companion is an oxygen tank, essential for her breathing. At the urging of her mother Frannie (Laura Dern), father Michael (Sam Trammell), and doctor Maria (Ana Dela Cruz), she reluctantly attends a cancer support group at a church aptly named the Literal Heart of Jesus. The group is led by Patrick (Mike Birbiglia), a testicular cancer survivor who remains upbeat despite his struggles.
Meeting Augustus Waters During one of these meetings, Hazel encounters Augustus Waters (Ansel Elgort), a charismatic boy in remission from osteosarcoma, who lost part of his leg to the disease. Their connection is immediate and profound, sparked by their shared experiences and love for literature.
Blossoming Friendship Gus and Hazel quickly form a deep bond. They exchange favorite books: Hazel introduces Gus to “An Imperial Affliction,” while Gus shares his favorite, “Counterinsurgence.” They become captivated by the unresolved ending of “An Imperial Affliction” and the fates of its characters.
Reaching Out to the Author Determined to find answers, Gus tracks down the reclusive author, Peter Van Houten (Willem Dafoe), who resides in Amsterdam. To their amazement, Van Houten responds, inviting them to visit. Gus uses his wish from the Genies (a foundation similar to Make-A-Wish) to take Hazel to Amsterdam.
Journey to Amsterdam In Amsterdam, Hazel and Gus enjoy a magical evening at the restaurant Oranjee, courtesy of Van Houten. Gus declares his love for Hazel, making the night unforgettable. However, their meeting with Van Houten turns bitter when he refuses to answer their questions and insults them. They leave disheartened but find solace at the Anne Frank House, where they share a poignant kiss.
Facing a Grim Reality Gus reveals that his cancer has returned and metastasized, shattering Hazel. Back in Indianapolis, they cherish their remaining time together, even indulging in a mischievous act of egging the car of Isaac’s (Nat Wolff) ex-girlfriend, Monica.
Preparing for Farewell As Gus’s health declines rapidly, he asks Hazel and Isaac to write eulogies for him. At a pre-funeral gathering, Hazel delivers a heartfelt speech about their love and the infinite moments they shared within their finite time.
Final Goodbye Gus passes away eight days later. At his funeral, Hazel is surprised to see Van Houten, who reveals he had communicated with Gus before his death. He hands Hazel a letter from Gus, which she initially discards in anger.
Gus’s Last Words Hazel later retrieves and reads Gus’s letter. In it, he praises Hazel’s strength and beauty, expressing his gratitude for their time together. He ends with, “Okay, Hazel Grace?” to which Hazel, lying in the grass once more, looks up at the stars and replies, “Okay.”
“The Fault in Our Stars” is a poignant narrative of love, loss, and the courage to live fully despite adversity. Hazel and Gus’s journey serves as a powerful reminder that even amidst great pain, moments of joy and connection are possible.
