Review of Getting It Right (1989) by Stephen M — 01 May 2008
An avid fan of British films, I was very excited to see the cast list of Getting It Right, back in '89 when it was released. I didn't know who Jesse Birdsall was (but I have been a fan since) but I LOVED Judy Parfitt, John Gielgud, Peter Cook, Helena Bonham Carter, Pat Heywood and the great Lynn Redgrave. This would also be my introduction to Jane Horrocks.
What I found when I saw the film was this quirky little comedy about some very real people with some idiosyncracic behavioural patterns. Each character is a delight to watch (except, perhaps, for Harry, the whiny best friend - ech; no wonder Winthrop left), especially the odd mother who makes curry that burns the roof off your mouth.
This is one of Lynn Redgrave's most interesting characters and most compelling performances. For most of the movie she plays an eccentric and aloof millionairess who hides behind disguises; there are, though, a few scenes in which the pretense is dropped and she stands naked (literally) before Gavin and the audience and allows her vulnerability to show. It is a truly magnificent perforamnce, fully realized and totally beautiful. My favourite scene with her is the heart wrenching scene when she and Gavin say goodbye and she says.
"Don't worry about being loved. Worry about loving. It's far more important.".
Jesse Birdsall is a wonderful leading man, full of character and charm and good looks. It is impossible to not cheer for him.
It is also impossible to not cheer for GETTING IT RIGHT.
This review of Getting It Right (1989) was written by Stephen M on 01 May 2008.
Getting It Right has generally received very positive reviews.
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