A Review of ‘Get You Better’: A Less Than Sobering Experience
A relationship between an alcoholic and his lover goes on the rocks when the latter wants them to confront the situation.
‘Get You Better’: A Less Than Sobering Experience
Cast: Danica Jensen, Baldur Thor, Rivera Reese, Huston Pigford, Amy Hart Nguyen
Critic’s Rating: 2.5 Stars out of 5
Director: Danica Jensen
Duration: 20 minutes
Genre: Drama
Language: English
Release: 2024
What’s it about?
A relationship between an alcoholic and his lover goes on the rocks when the latter wants them to confront the situation.
Review:
What happens when alcohol comes in between a couple? Who will win in this odd love triangle? That seems to be the general premise of this decidedly unromantic short film, which falls short of impressing or moving the audience. Dry drunks and those close to them may find something to relate to here, but for others Get You Better might be a somewhat dull experience. However, the theme is relevant and fairly well set up, ensuring that viewers would not want to turn away.
Devin Paulson (Danica Jensen) takes her boyfriend Wesley Sommers (Baldur Thor) to the Malibu Ranch rehab home. He is apparently an alcoholic in denial while she wants him to begin recovering from his addiction before it is too late. However, Wesley is reluctant and adamant, even presenting some unconvincing proof of his ongoing period of sobriety. To make the situation worse for Paulson, the receptionist turns them away for a rather bizarre reason. This is in accordance with the institution’s policy.
In a desperate frame of mind, Devin takes Wesley to a bar. Her agenda is clear, but will he be amenable to her plan? In response to her order, the bartender serves up hard liquor in one glass and lemon-and-soda in another. Wesley doesn’t even have the dough to pay for the drinks which prompts Devin to the return to the car... where she makes an off-putting discovery. Back the bar, Wesley takes a bathroom break while another person strikes up a conversation with Devin. The two mull the situation and dilemma. On returning, Wesley suspects Devin’s true intentions.
The conclusion leaves the audience wondering whether a prediction by Wesley turns out to be right. This alone is worth the price of admission, but the lead-up to the denouement isn’t entirely so. The lead actors try hard, but can’t overcome the limitations of a wanting script by Jensen. However, the cinematography subtly displays the booze-infused ambience and the choice of soulful background music helps. Still, the movie doesn’t quite serve up a mix that will evoke much sympathy or empathy. In fact, the average viewer might want to hit the bar after watching this one.
