Inside the World of Just Getting Started: A Palm Springs Showdown
Ron Shelton's 2017 action-comedy, Just Getting Started, plunges viewers into the sun-drenched, seemingly idyllic world of a luxury retirement resort in Palm Springs, California. Here, we meet Duke Diver, played by the inimitable Morgan Freeman, a smooth-talking, freewheeling manager who's living his best life. Duke's routine of golf, women, and general bonhomie is upended by the arrival of Leo, a former military man portrayed by Tommy Lee Jones, who immediately establishes himself as a rival. Their competitive spirits ignite, especially when both men find themselves vying for the affections of the same woman. But their escalating feud takes an abrupt and dangerous turn when Duke's mysterious past suddenly catches up with him, forcing these two adversaries to put aside their differences and reluctantly team up to thwart whoever is trying to kill him.
Behind the Scenes: Making Just Getting Started and its Critical Reception
Just Getting Started marked a notable return for director and writer Ron Shelton, his first feature film since 2003's Hollywood Homicide. Shelton, known for his sports-themed comedies like Bull Durham and Tin Cup, aimed for a different kind of camaraderie and conflict here, pairing two acting legends in Morgan Freeman and Tommy Lee Jones. The film also features Rene Russo, Elizabeth Ashley, and Glenne Headly in supporting roles, rounding out a cast with considerable pedigree. Produced by Reel Chefs Catering, Broad Green Pictures, Endurance Media, Entertainment One, Gerber Pictures, and Entertainment One Features, the movie had a budget of $22 million. Upon its release on December 8, 2017, by Broad Green Pictures, the box office returns were disheartening, grossing only $6,069,605 globally — a clear box office bomb. The film was rated PG-13, a common rating for action-comedies aiming for a broad audience. Critically, it fared even worse, receiving a dismal Metascore of 21/100 and an abysmal 5% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, indicating widespread negative reviews. The IMDb rating of 4.6/10 from over 9,000 votes further solidifies its poor reception among viewers.
Critical Perspectives and What Just Getting Started Offers Viewers
Given the overwhelming critical panning, it's fair to ask what Just Getting Started brings to the table. Honestly, the film struggles to find its footing, a sentiment echoed by many critics. As one reviewer from The Chicago Tribune wryly observed, the film "struggles to find its rhythm, much like its aging protagonists trying to dance." The premise — "Chivalry meets rivalry" — promises a charming, witty dynamic between two seasoned stars, and that's precisely what some viewers might cling to. The opportunity to see Morgan Freeman and Tommy Lee Jones on screen together, trading barbs and occasionally working together, is undoubtedly the film's main draw. Their inherent charisma is undeniable, even when the script doesn't quite live up to their talents. For those who enjoy light, undemanding action-comedies, the film offers a certain escapism, a chance to watch two legends navigate a ridiculous plot. The action sequences are relatively tame, fitting the PG-13 rating and the comedic tone. It's a movie that doesn't demand much thought, content to coast on its star power and a few chuckles. A tough sell, for sure, but sometimes that's all you're looking for.
Where to Stream Just Getting Started Online
For those intrigued by the premise or simply wanting to see Morgan Freeman and Tommy Lee Jones share the screen, Just Getting Started is currently available on major OTT services. Checking out films like this is what Movie OTT is all about — helping you discover where your favorite movies are streaming. You don't have to hunt across numerous platforms; our site aggregates the availability to make finding your next watch effortless. To see the exact platforms where you can rent, buy, or stream Just Getting Started right now, simply refer to the "Where to Watch" widget prominently displayed at the top of this page. Movie OTT keeps its listings updated, ensuring you have the most current information at your fingertips, so you'll know exactly how to watch this action-comedy from the comfort of your home.
Frequently asked questions
Q: What is Just Getting Started about? A: Just Getting Started follows Duke Diver, the manager of a luxury Palm Springs resort, whose high life is interrupted by the arrival of Leo, a former military man. Their rivalry over a woman turns into a reluctant partnership when Duke's past catches up to him, forcing them to team up against those trying to kill him.
Q: Who are the main stars in Just Getting Started? A: The film stars Morgan Freeman as Duke Diver and Tommy Lee Jones as Leo. Rene Russo, Elizabeth Ashley, and Glenne Headly also feature prominently in the cast.
Q: Who directed Just Getting Started? A: Just Getting Started was directed and written by Ron Shelton, known for his work on films like Bull Durham and Tin Cup. This marked his return to feature filmmaking after a 14-year hiatus.
Q: How did Just Getting Started perform at the box office? A: The film was a significant box office bomb, grossing only $6,069,605 worldwide against an estimated production budget of $22 million.
Q: What was the critical reception for Just Getting Started? A: Critical reception for Just Getting Started was overwhelmingly negative. It holds a 5% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, a Metascore of 21/100, and an IMDb rating of 4.6/10, indicating it was widely panned by critics and audiences alike.
Is Just Getting Started Worth Your Time?
Ultimately, Just Getting Started isn't going to win any awards, nor is it likely to be remembered as a classic. Its critical reception was brutal, and its box office performance was dismal. However, for viewers who enjoy the sheer presence of Morgan Freeman and Tommy Lee Jones, or who are in the mood for a light, unchallenging action-comedy, it might offer a diverting 91 minutes. It's the kind of film you might stumble upon on a streaming service and decide to give a chance, perhaps as background viewing. Don't expect a masterpiece; expect two legends doing their best with a shaky script. For more recommendations on what to watch, and where to find it, keep browsing Movie OTT.
