17 'The Fault In Our Stars' Facts: A Film Based On A True Life Story

Oluwatosin Michael
Oct 06, 2023 By Oluwatosin Michael
Originally Published on Mar 29, 2022
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In the summer of 2014, the world was introduced to 'The Fault In Our Stars.'

This romantic drama was based on the best-selling novel of the same name by John Green. It told the story of two young cancer patients who fell in love.

The film was a huge success, both commercially and critically. But what many people don't know is that the story is based on a true-life story. The script of the movie was written by Scott Neustadter and Michael H. Weber. Josh Boone directed the movie. We will now take a look at some facts about 'The Fault In Our Stars' that you may not have known. Continue reading to learn more about the inspiration behind this book.

Actors And Characters In 'The Fault In Our Stars'

The main characters in the film are Hazel Grace Lancaster and Augustus Waters. These characters are cancer patients who meet at a support group for young people with cancer. The two of them quickly fall in love and embark on a journey together. Other significant characters in the film include Peter Van Houten, Isaac, and Augustus' mother. Shailene Woodley, Ansel Elgort, Nat Wolff, Laura Dern, Sam Trammell, and Willem Dafoer are some of the actors in the movie.

Hazel Grace Lancaster is the main character in 'The Fault In Our Stars.' She is a 16-year-old cancer patient who has been diagnosed with stage IV thyroid cancer.

Cancer has metastasized to her lungs, forcing her to use an oxygen tank. Hazel is forced to attend a cancer support group, where she meets Augustus Waters. The role of Hazel was played by Shailene Woodley, who is best known for her roles in the 'Divergent' series and 'The Secret Life Of The American Teenager.'

Augustus Waters is the male lead in 'The Fault In Our Stars.' He is a 17-year-old cancer patient who meets and falls in love with Hazel Grace Lancaster.

Before losing his leg to a type of bone cancer called osteosarcoma, he was a basketball star. Ansel Elgort portrays Augustus in the film.

Nat Wolff was cast as Issac in the movie. In the novel, Issac is a male character. He has eye cancer which has caused him to go blind. Hazel and Issac attend the same support group.

In the novel and the film, Peter Van Houten is the author of a book-within-the-book, 'An Imperial Affliction.' Actor Willem Dafoe played the role. In the film, he is shown to be a reclusive and eccentric writer.

Hazel and Augustus meet him when they travel to Amsterdam in an attempt to find out more about the book.

Behind The Scene Facts Of 'The Fault In Our Stars'

You know all there is to know about Hazel, but you don't know everything there is to know about Augustus.

Ansel revealed that he spent a lot of time with Tanner Boatwright, his body double who had lost his leg in a hunting accident, to actually know how things are for him and portray the character in a much better way.

Believe it or not, the film was shot in less than three months—two months of shooting in Pittsburgh and three days in Amsterdam.

While we all thought Ansel lost a few pounds by the end of the film to fit in character, he did not lose any. The costume department came up with a brilliant idea as it would be unhealthy for Ansel to lose 10-15 lb (4.5-6.8 kg) just for a couple of scenes. They decided to size up his clothes to make it look like he had lost weight. Brilliant, right?

John Green is the author of 'The Fault In Our Stars.'

Budget And Awards Won For 'The Fault In Our Stars'

'The Fault In Our Stars' had a modest budget of $12 million (gross). This is relatively low for a Hollywood blockbuster.

However, the film went on to gross over $300 million at the worldwide box office.

15th Golden Trailer Award, Teen Choice Awards 2014, Young Hollywood Awards, 18th Hollywood Film Awards, 41st People's Choice Awards, and MTV Movie Awards are some of the awards the movie has won.

'The Fault in Our Stars' was named TIME Magazine's #1 Fiction Book of 2012 after debuting at #1 on the New York Times bestseller list.

Did You Know...

Though most of the movie will make you weep, there are some fun facts that you might want to know if you are a fan.

Augustus keeps Issac company after his breakup with Monica. At the time, he sings 'I've Been Breaking All The Rules,' which is a line from the song 'Rules' by Nat and Alex Wolff.

Most of the authors find it difficult to pick out a favorite scene but not John Green. John Green said that most of his favorite scenes in the movie come from Nat Wolff. He added that Nat's subtle comedy has made the scenes even more interesting.

The flawless scenes in the movie have made fans appreciate the director. Fans were shocked to find out that 'The Fault In Our Stars' was just the second movie directed by Josh Boone. Previously, he worked on a minor movie, 'Stuck In Love.'

Shailene Woodley was not the choice for the lead role as the crew felt that she was too pretty and healthy-looking. However, following the audition, Josh Boone stated that out of the 250 actresses that auditioned for the part, he was only able to picture Shailene in Hazel's place. When Shailene chopped her hair off for the role, she donated it to children with hair loss.

FAQs

How is Natalie Portman connected to Hazel?

According to Augustus, Hazel reminded him of Natalie Portman from 'V For Vendetta.'

How old is Hazel in 'The Fault In Our Stars'?

Hazel is 16 years old in 'The Fault In Our Stars.'

Is 'The Fault In Our Stars' based on a true story?

Yes, 'The Fault In Our Stars' is based on a true story. John Green, the author, got the inspiration for 'The Fault In Our Stars' after working in a children's hospital. John Green said that the character of Hazel Grace is inspired by his friend Esther Earl who passed away due to thyroid cancer at the age of 16.

What is the central message of 'The Fault In Our Stars'?

'The Fault In Our Stars' is a story about two young people who fall in love despite the odds. It is a story of hope, courage, and resilience in the face of adversity. The key message of the film is that even though life may be difficult at times, it is still worth living.

Is Hazel a girl in 'The Fault In Our Stars'?

Yes, Hazel is a girl in 'The Fault In Our Stars.' She is the main character of the story and is played by actress Shailene Woodley in the film.

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Written by Oluwatosin Michael

Bachelor of Science specializing in Microbiology

Oluwatosin Michael picture

Oluwatosin MichaelBachelor of Science specializing in Microbiology

With a Bachelor's in Microbiology from the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Ogun State, Oluwatosin has honed his skills as an SEO content writer, editor, and growth manager. He has written articles, conducted extensive research, and optimized content for search engines. His expertise extends to leading link-building efforts and revising onboarding strategies. 

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