The Tribes of Palos Verdes is a coming-of-age drama film based on a novel by Joy Nicholson. It follows the story of a teenage girl named Medina (Maika Monroe) and her family as they move to the idyllic coastal town of Palos Verdes in California. Medina's parents (played by Jennifer Garner and Justin Kirk) are going through a difficult time in their marriage, and their problems start to affect their children.
Medina turns to surfing as a way to escape her problems and find happiness. She quickly discovers a passion for the sport, and finds solace in the waves. However, her parents' problems start to spiral out of control, and Medina is forced to confront the harsh realities of life. She struggles to find a balance between her own happiness and her family's troubles, while dealing with the pressures of being a teenager.
The movie also explores themes of class, privilege, and the power dynamics of small communities. It portrays the social hierarchy of Palos Verdes and how it affects the characters' lives, as well as the dark side of the affluent lifestyle that the town represents.
The Tribes of Palos Verdes is a poignant and emotional story about family, identity, and the search for meaning and belonging. It is a beautifully shot and well-acted film that captures the spirit of Southern California's surfing culture, and the complexities of growing up in a privileged, yet fractured world.
