The teenage experience is both universal and distinct, and channeling that specific feeling and make it feel authentic, and free of cliché is no easy feat. And Gia Coppola — yes, granddaughter of Francis Ford Coppola — went down that tricky path for her debut feature film “Palo Alto,” and the good news is she got it. Our review out of Venice called the film “strong and soulful,” and today we have a little look at “Palo Alto” to take you into the world Coppola has put on screen.
Based on the book by James Franco (who also has a role in the film), the story follows April who starts an affair with her soccer coach, Mr. B. However, Teddy has feelings for April, while his best friend Fred puts his sights on Emily and a high school party sees all these lives and plans converging in unexpected ways. And in this exclusive clip, we watch April in her room dancing alone, having mock conversations, as we all have at one time or another. And it gives a good sense of the tone and texture Coppola brings to her picture.
“Palo Alto” opens in limited release on May 9th. Watch below.
Cute Emma has such a lovely nose in profile. Fingers crossed for Palo Alto's success and a third generation of dynastic film directing Ford Coppola talent doing the business.