The Art of Getting By

In this sensitive depiction of first love and emerging adulthood, first time director-writer Gavin Wiesen convincingly navigates through the characters' life-changing experiences and the realization of the imperfect world surrounding them.

George Zinavoy is a smart, introspective, insular senior high school student, overwhelmed by a sense of futility, lack of self-confidence and motivation. He is challenged by three dedicated educators, the Principal Martinson (Blair Underwood), his English teacher Ms. Herman (Alicia Silverstone) and art instructor Harris McElroy (Jarlath Conroy), as well as his mother Vivian (Rita Wilson) and stepfather, Jack Sargent (Sam Robards). However, his perspective changes when he develops a romance with the popular and beautiful classmate Sally (Emma Roberts), who brings him out of his shell and into a new view on life.

Notwithstanding the predictable script and cliché dialogue, the characters are relatable. Freddie Highmore (Finding Neverland and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory) well portrays an aloof character who tries to find himself, while rising star Emma Roberts (It's Kind of a Funny Story) is charming in depicting Sally, a free spirited character.

Gavin builds an emotional connection to George's journey by delivering a timeless feel and beginning the feature with a rough documentary aesthetic. Use of a handheld camera at the beginning of the feature is gradually transitioned to a steadier camera, as George becomes more grounded.

The feature speaks to the complicated and confused age where teenagers try to find inner strength and overcome personal challenges.