The Go-Getter

The Go-Getter, released in 2007, is a coming-of-age drama directed by Martin Hynes. The movie revolves around Mercer (Lou Taylor Pucci), a troubled teenager who steals a car and embarks on a road trip to track down his estranged half-brother, Arlen (Jsu Garcia). Along the way, Mercer inevitably faces a series of obstacles, forcing him to confront his inner demons and learn the true meaning of family and belonging.

The movie begins with a somber tone, establishing the premise of Mercer's life through a tragic backstory of his mother's death. As a result, Mercer has grown up with his grandma and has been plagued by feelings of isolation and loneliness. However, it is in the aftermath of stealing a car from a local car dealership that Mercer's journey truly begins. The stolen car becomes more than just a means of transportation, as Mercer discovers a lost cell phone belonging to the car's owner, Kate (Zooey Deschanel). It is through this cell phone that Mercer enters into a bittersweet relationship with Kate. As the two connect, they help each other overcome their personal struggles and form a bond that enriches their lives.

As Mercer's journey continues, he meets a variety of characters, including Joely (Jena Malone), a free-spirited artist looking for a fling, and Max (Bill Duke), a wise and kind motel manager who teaches Mercer valuable lessons about life. Alongside these interactions, Mercer's inner monologue reflects on his past, present, and future, as he tries to understand who he is and who he wants to be.

One of the film's standout features is its stunning cinematography. The camera captures the breathtaking landscapes of the American West, giving the film a sense of freedom and adventure. Additionally, the director's choice to use a mix of indie and folk music, with M. Ward contributing to the soundtrack, helps to encapsulate the movie's unique and intimate tone.

The film's takeaway message is about the journey of self-discovery and realization through human connections. Mercer learns to embrace the power of human connection and how they can enrich his life. He started as a lonely teenager who stole a car, but by the movie's end, Mercer has learned invaluable lessons on the importance of family, love, and friendship.

Overall, The Go-Getter is a heartfelt movie, compelling audiences to contemplate their lives as they connect with Mercer's journey of self-discovery. The film is beautifully shot, brilliantly acted and has a charm that is hard to resist. It is a journey of self-discovery that will leave you feeling hopeful and inspired. With a great soundtrack and stunning visuals, The Go-Getter should be watched by anyone looking for a touching and intimate story about life, love, and human connection.