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The Art of Getting By
| Released |
2 September 2011 |
| Director |
Gavin Wiesen |
Starring
|
Freddie Highmore, Emma Roberts, Michael Angarano, Elizabeth Reaser, Sam Robards, Jarlath Conroy, Ann Dowd, Marcus Carl Franklin, Sasha Spielberg, Rita Wilson, Blair Underwood |
| Writer(s) |
Gavin Wiesen |
Producer(s)
|
P. Jennifer Dana, Gia Walsh, Darren Goldberg |
| Origin |
United States |
| Running Time |
83 minutes |
| Genre |
Drama |
| Rating |
12A |
|
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Seen it.
How can I attempt to make this review interesting and original while still maintaining the usual features of a regular review? Oh, I don't have to? Fair enough. The Art of Getting By is a coming-of-age teenage romantic drama that we have seen on countless occasions but still bring ourselves to watch again and again. The problem is that most of them lack inspiration.
Funnily enough, this is pretty much the premise of the story. George (Highmore), a senior in high school, is a supremely talented artist and all-round bright guy except he refuses to care about himself, his school or his family because of his sombre belief that we're all going to die anyway. What a liar. However, upon befriending a stunning and popular schoolmate named Sally (Roberts), things begin to change.
There are sufficient amounts of ups and downs that ensue to keep the film rolling for the required ninety minutes but it reeks of predictability. What doesn't help at all is the script, which lacked so much drive that the performances of both leads appeared simply dull despite their best efforts to enlighten us unfortunate viewers.
To be a little nice, the one thing going for it was that it was filmed beautifully. The fact that many scenes involved George moping around in self pity with the ironic art of the world passing him by granted the director a hint of creativity. But even that couldn't save this movie from its severe lack of freshness.
For teens or young adults, this movie may suit a cosy night in with the other half supported by the fact that you are in the comfort of your very own home. Remember, I said maybe! Yet, I feel that might not even be enough to save this failed artistry.
- David Caulfield |
