Palo Alto - Fred
I watched this movie a few months ago, i think it's pretty sad, somewhat realistic, and lacks depth but still enjoyable. I always see conversations revolving around the characters and their stories, but hardly ever about Fred. He's a pretty prominent character, but i never really see anyone talk about him unless its a simple "he sucks". I feel a little crazy about my thoughts on him because no one talks about him.
Through the movie he ends up leading Emily on in attempts to get sex, then evolves to sexually assaulting her. And he displayed a lot of aggression towards her without remorse. Later when in the car with teddy talking about Bob, i feel as though he's speaking about his internal struggle about his sexuality. I think this deprives from abuse, as when Teddy went to his home, he was greeted by his father. Who hit on Teddy, both a minor and a male. If his father didn't see a boundary with his sons best friend, i feel it was safe to assume Fred was being sexually abused by his father, the suspicion enhanced by Freds internal conflict, reflected by this character Bob he creates.
Which lead to sex/related acts crossing wires in his head, possibly trying to trick him that he "enjoyed" what his father had done. And in an effort to convince himself he isn't gay(as he was most likely mislead by his brain in hopes to protect him somewhat.) he ended up going to extreme lengths to prove that he isn't gay. Like raping Emily. And his distance with real feeling.
Maybe this is common knowledge to anyone who's watched this movie, but i felt as this was worth mentioning considering ive seen nothing about Fred ever. I dont excuse or condone his actions, but i believe the reasoning behind it was out of his own abuse, and i think more people should bring it up.