But, if it's bad for Steven, it's far worse for John, who is one of the most popular guys at school. Much of Get Real deals with the gradual, difficult process of John accepting his own sexual identity, then wrestling to keep it hidden from everyone else. Even those who suspect the truth look beyond the obvious for another explanation. Although at first oblivious to Jessie's intentions, once Steven figures out where things are headed, he reacts in a believable fashion. There are no big scenes or histrionics.
Solid performances abound.
Ben Silverstone does a good job presenting Steven as a nerd with a core of self-confidence. Likewise, Brad Gorton shows us the desperate, uncertain side of John, a boy who appears to his peers as the epitome of poise. Charlotte Brittain provides a fresh, lively presence as Linda, and Stacey Hart's Jessica has surprising depth for a secondary character. The only real stereotype is Tim Harris' Kevin, who fulfills the role of school bully. It doesn't have the slick, manufactured, condescending style.