
Getting Straight follows the journey of Harry Bailey, portrayed by Elliott Gould, a graduate student who was once a highly visible activist during his undergraduate years. Now, as he pursues his master's degree, Harry attempts to adopt a more conventional approach to his studies and life in general. However, the campus environment is tumultuous, brimming with a variety of student movements that challenge the status quo, making it difficult for Harry to distance himself from the activism he once embraced.
Jeannie Berlin plays Judy Kramer, Harry's girlfriend, who is deeply involved in these campus protests and social movements. Her passionate participation serves as a constant reminder to Harry of the various causes and ideals they both once championed. As the campus becomes increasingly divided between the students pushing for change and the established faculty defending tradition, Harry finds himself caught between his desire for academic success and a lingering allegiance to the spirited activism surrounding him.
As Harry approaches the completion of his master's degree, his perspective begins to shift. Rather than embracing the conventional path set by the faculty, his rebellious and iconoclastic spirit aligns more with the student movements he once tried to leave behind. This internal conflict highlights the broader generational and ideological struggles on campus, capturing the turbulent atmosphere of the time. Getting Straight is a compelling exploration of personal conviction, societal change, and the challenges of navigating between conformity and rebellion.