The narrative centers on (Evan Rachel Wood), a bright, 13-year-old student living in Los Angeles with her mother, Melanie (Holly Hunter), and her older brother, Mason . Initially characterized by her academic focus and relative innocence, Tracy feels an intense pressure to fit in with the more popular social circles at school.

Hardwicke, a former production designer, used distinct visual techniques to mirror Tracy's mental state. The film is known for its handheld camera work and a shifting color palette that moves from dull tones to high-intensity oranges and greens as Tracy’s life becomes more chaotic.

In the pantheon of coming-of-age cinema, most films offer a sanitized version of adolescence—think John Hughes’ glittery malls or the choreographed dance numbers of High School Musical . Then, there is the .

If anything, the film is more relevant now. Today’s 13-year-olds are exposed to hyper-sexualized content and cyberbullying from screens in their pockets. Tracy’s rebellion in 2003 required sneaking out of the house; today’s rebellion happens in DMs. But the feeling of wanting to be "seen" and the self-destruction that follows is timeless.

As Tracy's lifestyle changes, her relationship with Melanie becomes fraught with tension.