Is Getting It Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (1985)

🎬 The Narrative Arc & Core Premise

Debuting in 1985, Getting It represents a sophisticated intersection of artistic ambition and genre-defining elements within the Modern Cinema category. The primary thematic concern of the film is an investigation into Straight blond Valley boy Randy dreams of making it with his roommate, Kurt. As the story unfolds, we are introduced to a world where the traditional boundaries of Modern Cinema are tested.

The screenplay takes its time to establish the stakes, ensuring that every character motivation is grounded in a psychological reality. The synopsis only hints at the depth: "Straight blond Valley boy Randy dreams of making it with his roommate, Kurt. Will they or won't they eventually get it on at their friend Skip's party? Randy (Jim Bentley) has the hots for roommate Kurt (Shawn Michaels); they are supposed to go to a party (Guys only, who talk about wanting chicks) but Kurt (Shawn) takes off with some chick before they get there, and Randy (Jim) gets stoned in a van with two blond guys, who notice his hardon and can't help themselves. Later at the party, Kurt (Shawn) catches Bobby (Chris Allen) looking at his dick, and to "punish" him, he makes him suck it. Then a bunch of guys line up to screw someone near the pool, and some other guys have sex upstairs, and of course there's the fantasy scene (you can tell it's a fantasy, since there's a smoke machine blowing while guys are in leather gear). To note: Falcon's edit contained a water sports moment."

🎭 Artistic Execution & Performance Study

A film's resonance is often dictated by the strength of its execution, both in front of and behind the camera. Audiences are treated to a masterclass in acting by Shawn Michaels, whose portrayal of the protagonist is imbued with a depth and vulnerability that is rare in contemporary cinema. The chemistry with the supporting players is palpable, creating a gravity that pulls the viewer into the screen.

The direction by Philip St. John is marked by a bold and uncompromising hand. Technically, the film is a tour de force. The cinematography makes exceptional use of light and shadow, creating a visual language that mirrors the character's internal journey. The soundscape is equally impressive, with a score that is both haunting and celebratory, perfectly aligned with the thematic progression of the plot. The pacing, over its 87 minute runtime, allows the audience to fully inhabit the space the director has created, making the eventual resolution feel deeply earned.

🤔 Critical Assessment: Why You Should Watch

Is Getting It truly worth your investment of time and attention? In an era of disposable content, this film makes a strong case for its existence. If you are a connoisseur of Modern Cinema, then this is a mandatory viewing experience—a film that will haunt your thoughts long after you leave the theater.

The film's ability to transcend its genre labels is why it has earned its 8.7/10 score. It speaks to a global audience while maintaining a distinct and unique voice, a balance that is notoriously difficult to achieve in the modern marketplace.

⚖️ Philosophical Subtext & Directorial Vision

At a deeper level, Getting It explores the dichotomy of truth and perception. The 1985 audience is increasingly sophisticated, and Philip St. John respects this by refusing to provide easy answers to the story's complex questions.

The philosophical underpinnings of the second and third acts suggest a narrative that is interested in more than just entertainment. It is an exploration of what it means to be human in an increasingly complex world.

🏆 Final Editorial Recommendation

Ultimately, Getting It is a rare gem that rewards the audience's attention with a profound and lasting impact. Whether you are drawn to it by the star power of Shawn Michaels or the critical acclaim surrounding its release, Getting It is a film that demands to be seen on the largest screen possible.