What it's about: Based on James Franco's collection of short stories by the same name, Palo Alto follows the lives of four teens — April (Emma Roberts), Teddy (Jack Kilmer), Fred (Nat Wolff), and Emily (Zoe Levin) — as they make their way through several months of high school.
How is it?: Director and writer Gia Coppola (niece of Sofia, granddaughter of Francis), artfully delves into this project, which is impressive when you consider that this is her first feature film. The standouts in this film are the younger stars, particularly Wolff, who peels back the layers of the cocky, unpredictable Fred to show off his inner turmoil and desire to be loved. The performance that will likely get the most attention is Franco's predatory coach, especially given his recent scandal.
When you can see it: In theaters on May 9.
— MML
Source: Rabbit Bandini Productions
