I liked The Fault in Our Stars last year, and I think Paper Towns, based on a book by the same author, is even better.  It creates multidimensional, realistic teenage characters of a nerdy bent (they’re in band, get good grades, actively plan for the future) and allows them to act out a little bit, growing as they do.  Furthermore, this story is unencumbered by scimitar of death which perpetually hung over the earlier film; this one is a lot more fun.

Jake Schreier’s film is an authentic glimpse of what teens are like today  — at least those who live on the outskirts of high school popularity.  They aren’t caricatures, and their experiences (almost all without adult guidance) are important.  Not all of their decisions are smart, or even explainable.  When one girl suddenly disappears, a few of her friends undertake a road trip to try to find her and bring her back home.

It is refreshing to see someone direct a film about teens that reminds me of the best films of John Hughes.  Hughes’ films took their characters seriously, even when they were skipping school or misbehaving for fun.  Paper Towns presents, then breaks down common stereotypes just like Hughes’ films did, following the youngsters as they try to find their friend, learning more about themselves along the way.

The young cast is very good.  Nat Woolf, Cara Delevingne, Austin Abrams, Justice Smith, Halston Sage and Jaz Sinclair all make solid impressions.  Delevingne is the star, the mysterious Margo, but I actually like Halston Sage as Lacey more; Lacey is much more than just a hot blonde.  The camaraderie between the friends, both male and female, is charming.  The whole movie is charming.  ☆ ☆ ☆.  28 July 2015.