To the world around him, Donald appears to be a typical teenager. He's moody toward his parents, awkward around girls, and ambivalent about the struggle to fit in at school. But Donald also possesses an extraordinary imagination and a talent for art that sets him apart from his peers. When he is diagnosed with a life-threatening illness, Donald retreats into a fantasy world in order to avoid confronting the painful reality of his life. With the help of a compassionate therapist, family and friends who care for him, and a young woman who becomes his first love, Donald decides to take advantage of his remaining days and fight against the sickness that tries to claim his life.
Adapted by Anthony McCarten from his own novel, Ian Fitzgibbon's new film manages to smash every expectation a viewer might have for a film about a kid with cancer. Infused with a biting sense of humor, incredible visual flourishes, and wonderful performances from the cast including Andy Serkis and Thomas Brodie-Sangster, this is a genuinely moving film that leaves a lasting impression.