I liked this movie, both for Jack Kilmer’s performance* and for the gauzy way the story unfolds. Based on a series of stories written by James Franco, the movie is unflinching in depicting everyday rape culture, and I wonder how much Gia Coppola’s direction has to do with this.** It’s one of those movies where I think maybe the kids of Palo Alto need a little less free time, a little less money, and perhaps something to believe in; yet also, I was mesmerized by the film itself.
Cost: free from library
Where watched: at home
*”Who is that?” I wondered aloud during his first scene. His performance wasn’t showy, but he had full command of the screen. It made sense when I figured out he was the son of Val Kilmer and Joanne Whalley. This was his first role.
**DVD extras provide an interview with James Franco, where he discusses how strongly he felt that Gia Coppla should direct this movie, even going so far as to take a role in a film, simply to obtain the rest of the funding necessary to film. He’s also creepy good as the soccer coach.
poster from: http://www.impawards.com/2014/palo_alto.html