Dare

Dare is a 2009 indie drama directed by Adam Salky and based on his 2005 short film of the same name. It stars Emmy Rossum as Alexa Walker, a high school student who aspires to be an actress. She faces romantic and sexual entanglements with two male classmates. Zach Gilford plays Johnny Drake, the handsome school bad boy. And Ashley Springer plays Alexa's friend Ben Berger, who is struggling with his sexuality and identity. A darker tale than many teen movies of the past, Dare focuses on Alexa's transformation from good girl to fledgling temptress, based on suggestions from one of her acting heroes, played by veteran actor Alan Cumming. This transformation throws into question her relationships with Johnny and Ben, leading the three of them toward uncertain futures. The film costars Rooney Mara, Ana Gasteyer, and Sandra Bernhard. It's the story of how no one in high school is who they appear to be on the surface, and how teenage years are a time to discover your potential.