Common Sense Media Review
By Andrea Beach
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Quiet character study is stellar but won't appeal to kids.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 13+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Get Low
What's the Story?
Felix Bush (Robert Duvall) has been living like a hermit for over 40 years. When he realizes his time is nearing its end, he decides he wants to throw a big "funeral party" for himself so that he can actually be there at his own funeral. Of course after all those years in solitude, he's developed quite a reputation in town, where rumors abound about his violent past. But the truth about Bush's past is as complicated as the difference between right and wrong. If he finally tells the truth, will he find forgiveness before it's too late? Based on a true story.
Is It Any Good?
GET LOW is a lovely, quiet, contemplative independent movie with a stellar turn from Hollywood legend Robert Duvall. He's ably supported by the likes of Bill Murray, Sissy Spacek, Bill Cobbs, and others. Starting off with not much more than mumbles and grunts, Duvall creates a fascinating character that's a joy to watch unfold as the film simultaneously pulls the viewer into the slowly building mystery of Felix Bush's past.
Adults will definitely enjoy this overlooked gem, but kids are unlikely to appreciate the depths and subtleties of a character study about looking back and trying to rectify past mistakes. The all-adult cast won't offer an easy way into it for them, either. But if you have the time after the kids are in bed or the odd night when the sleepover is at someone else's house, Get Low is a terrific choice.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about movies based on true stories. Is it OK for filmmakers to change things around to tell a story, or should they stick to the facts?
Everyone makes mistakes in life, but is there one mistake you waited too long to set right? Is there such a thing as too late to fix a mistake?
Bush says that at first he didn't want forgiveness for his actions, but now he does. Why do you think he changed his mind about that, and when do you think he changed his mind?
Movie Details
- In theaters : July 30, 2010
- On DVD or streaming : February 22, 2011
- Cast : Robert Duvall , Sissy Spacek , Bill Murray
- Director : Aaron Schneider
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s)
- Studios : K5 International , Zanuck Independent , David Gundlach Productions , LARA Enterprises , TVN , Butcher's Run Films
- Genre : Drama
- Topics : Friendship , History , Animals
- Run time : 103 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : Some thematic material and brief violent content
- Last updated : October 1, 2025
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