Take your time with The Art Of Getting By although the story has a simple plot Director Gavin Weisen spools his movie out slowly providing an abundance of character development. Although this may be a good thing for film buffs, it’s not the kind of entertainment for those who like their romance with a lot less buildup.
The plot centers on George (Freddie Highmore), a conflicted teen that believes life has little meaning, especially when it comes to schoolwork. Having reached his final high school year doing very little homework he still seems to eke through. But, with finals coming just weeks away his teachers are demanding he turn in a year’s worth of reports and a passing grade on his finals or there will be no diploma. Lost in a world of his grotesque drawings and contemplating giving up any future endeavors, he meets Sally (Emma Roberts) a defeatist person like himself. This bonding takes the two on a course of apprehension then exploration and optimism.
I personally did not care much for the film finding it repetitive and overwhelmingly dark. Wiesen’s direction spends way too much time on character build up, divorce guilt and school conflicts leaving little time for the coming of age relationship for both Sally and George.
The acting however shines with Highmore and Roberts making credible emotional teens that deal with age-old problems. And I’m impressed with Michael Angarano as the starving artist Dustin who takes George under his wing only to screw up his relationship with Sally.
The Art of Getting By is rated PG-13 for sexual content, language, teen drinking, partying. The film, however, does depict an over abundance of teen drinking without penalty so be cautious when approving pre-teens to early teens attending the film.
FINAL ANALYSIS: A little less would be more in The Art of Getting By. (C-)
Writer, critic, film editor John Delia, Sr. has been on all sides of the movie business from publications to film making. He has worked as a film critic with ACED Magazine for more than 20 years and other publications for a total of 40 years. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in communications from the University of Florida. John is a member of the Southeastern Film Critics Association and Critics Association of Central Florida Send John a message at jdelia@acedmagazine.com
