Oh ... Get Real, Baby
by Tallulah
Givehead
There are all kinds of
coming out; and "Get
Real" touches on several ... when lead
character, Steven Carter (Played brilliantly by
Ben Silverstone), comes out to his best
friend-turned-instant-fag-hag, Linda (Charlotte
Brittain), unwittingly outs himself to his
crush, John Dixon (Brad
Gorton), then to everyone else.
 Where
"Edge
of Seventeen" explored the main character's
self-awakening, his coming out to himself, "Get
Real" starts with Steven after he's jumped that
hurdle and is having sex in the local park's
restroom! It is there that Steven's rollercoaster
ride of love, hate, and heroism begins as by chance,
Steven and John happen to encounter each other's
secret at that very public toilet in the park.
Unknowingly, they make plans by sending each other
notes on toilet paper under the stalls. Then once
out in the sunlight, they recognize the other's
identity.
There's scene where
John, the gorgeous jock, talks of his secret
pleasures with other male bodies and his torment in
keeping it inside of him, was wonderful. And the way
Steven holds him in his arms and comforts him
brought tears to mah eyes. So delicate a scene.
Their first kiss took mah breath away. Ah also liked
Jacquetta May and
David Lumsden as Steven's parents. They were
played with sensitivity and depth. Even though Dad
had to go further in understanding his son, Mom was
there. The scene where she challenges the school
bully, picking on her son, brought cheers from this
viewer.
Poor Ta's heart was
broken the first time Ah saw this movie - and a few
times since! - to watch Steven find love only to
have his heart broken by someone who was not nearly
as brave as he! Ah highly recommend this film.
Tallulah Givehead is
a Fabulous drag queen living in Portland, Oregon
(Lord only knows why!) writing reviews of gay film
by day and tearing up the stage by night. You
can read her reviews here as well as at her blog,
QUEER VUE MIRROR.
|
