The Art of Getting By

The Art of Getting By is a coming-of-age drama film released in 2011 directed by Gavin Wiesen, starring Freddie Highmore, Emma Roberts, and Michael Angarano. The movie follows the life of a troubled teenager, George Zinavoy, who has just entered his senior year in high school. George is intelligent but quite introverted and a pessimist. He is struggling to find a purpose in his life, leading to his apathetic attitude towards school, family, and relationships.

George spends most of his time drawing and writing in a notebook, which he constantly carries with him. While sitting in the back of his art class, he notices a beautiful girl, Sally Howe (Emma Roberts), who seems to be the admiration of almost everyone in the class. George, who usually prefers to keep to himself, takes interest in her and decides to befriend her, and eventually, they become close. Sally is outgoing and very confident, unlike George, who is timid and uncertain of himself.

The two begin to spend more and more time together, and their friendship starts to develop into something more significant as they become each other's confidants. Sally enlists George's help to paint a mural for the school, and in the process, they become inseparable. However, their bond is threatened when Sally admits to George that she has a boyfriend, Dustin (Michael Angarano), in college, who she is still in love with.

George is heartbroken, but Sally assures him that he is also special to her, and that they can still be friends. Nevertheless, George finds himself struggling to reconcile his feelings for Sally, and with his future being unclear, he begins to experience a sense of existential dread.

The Art of Getting By deals with the classic teenage issue of growing up unsure of who one is or who one wants to be. It is about a young man who feels lost and isolated, who can't seem to find meaning in life.

Freddie Highmore delivers a standout performance as George, portraying his character's feelings of disconnection and uncertainty with great sensitivity. Emma Roberts plays Sally admirably, giving her character a sense of vulnerability and strength. Michael Angarano, in his supporting role as Dustin, also delivers a memorable performance as the older man that Sally is in love with.

The movie is beautifully shot, and the music helps establish the mood of the film, which is melancholic yet hopeful. The theme of the movie is relatable to many, young and old alike. It's about finding one's raison d'être and understanding that it's okay to be uncertain sometimes. The Art of Getting By captures the experiences and emotions of adolescence in a poignant and relatable way.

In conclusion, The Art of Getting By is a thoughtful and moving coming-of-age story that is both reassuring and realistic in its portrayal of teenage alienation. Gavin Wiesen's film is an ode to the challenges of growing up, and how friendship and human connections can help navigate the tricky waters of adolescence. The movie is a must-watch for those who love poignant and thought-provoking cinema.