Emily in “Palo Alto” is a character who experiences a traumatic event; she is sexually assaulted by her soccer coach.
In Gia Coppola’s film “Palo Alto,” based on James Franco’s short story collection, Emily is portrayed as a vulnerable high school student seeking validation and affection. Throughout the film, Emily’s character grapples with her self-esteem and engages in risky behavior, which includes seeking attention from older men. Her character’s arc takes a dark turn when she is sexually assaulted by her soccer coach, Mr. B, played by James Franco. This incident is a pivotal moment in the film, highlighting the themes of power dynamics and the exploitation of youth. Emily’s experience is a commentary on the broader issues of consent and the predatory behavior of adults in positions of authority. The film does not explicitly show the aftermath of Emily’s assault, but it is implied that she continues to struggle with the trauma and the complexities of her relationships with her peers and authority figures.