Palo Alto (2013)

Palo Alto is a high school coming of age drama, and like other coming of age films starring mainly teens, this film is quite similar with nothing much different or anything new to offer. Based on a novel, in which this film has the feel of a novel based upon it's characters and overall tone of the film. The plot of the film is quite thin and not something to watch for if you are looking for a deep complex plot. It is more so just a portrayal and 'real life' concept of teenagers and their everyday life and struggle, involving typical issues such as smoking, drinking, partying, depression, and peer pressure.

James Franco is the headliner of the film being from the book of which this film is based on, though he only plays a small supporting character. Emma Roberts is the lead character in a role which she has played many times before (the shy, depressed, lonely teen girl). The other leads are two best friends, Teddy and Fred. Both have different backstories and appear very different in personalities yet are portrayed as best friends. Nothing too original or refreshing about this film. And in the end, we are wondering what the real point of the film was. Palo Alto reminded of several films by Harmony Korine, though his films have a more refreshing outlook in life, plot, characters and are overall more entertaining and interesting. Would recommend watching his films as opposed to Palo Alto.