[Trailer] Palo Alto

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High school is certainly a time full of hormonally driven decisions and rebellious actions. There is this need to be full of angst yet a simultaneous desire to have complete affection. However, this angst can sometimes lead a teen to getting into too much trouble, whereas the need for affection can have one befriending a box of Kleenexes and a tub of Ben & Jerry's. It definitely isn't the easiest time for anyone, even when one seems to be succeeding pretty well. These multiple emotions that many feel throughout four short years are attempted to be captivated in dozens and dozens of films. While my own personal favorites are from the 80's generation, there are countless others made in recent years like Mean Girls, Juno, and The Perks of Being a Wallflower that take a bold stance on the controversial issues that American high schoolers face. Palo Alto is the latest film that will be taking on this challenge, covering the issues of teacher-student scandals and teenage rebellion.

Starring James Franco, Emma Roberts, Val Kilmer, and Nat Wolff, this dark drama covers a the lives of a few teens with the desire to find trouble. Roberts plays April, a 14 year old who just wants to feel love from a significant other who seems consistently disappointed by Kilmer's character Stewart's ignorance. However, Franco's character, Mr. B, sees this in April and is suddenly a bit more interested in being just her soccer coach and teacher. Simultaneously, Stewart is trying to make a better image for himself but is finding it difficult with the poor influence of his friend Fred (Wolff). The story lines appear to intertwine in order to make a film with just about as much complexity as that period in life is for all who experience it.

I must say, it's been awhile since a trailer had me so pumped up to go to the movies, but I'm eagerly anticipating this release. Franco and Roberts are two of my favorite performers, and I hope that it turns out as great as I'm hoping it to be. The latest film written and directed by Gia Coppola will be in theaters May 9, 2014.