Dave Franco stars in the new R-rated comedy “Idiots,” currently in theaters, portraying Mark, a stoner tasked alongside an equally inept accomplice, Davis (played by O’Shea Jackson Jr.), with escorting a wealthy yet volatile teenager (Mason Thames) to rehab. Directed by Macon Blair, the film navigates a chaotic road trip filled with drug use, strippers, and gun-wielding amateur rappers. The plot draws loosely from a concept by producer Alex Orr, whose friend experienced working for a loosely regulated transportation service. Franco describes the characters as “the last people you want your kid with,” highlighting the twist that the teen they are transporting is more dangerous than themselves.
At 41, Franco continues to balance mainstream successes with more unconventional projects. Known for roles in franchises such as “Neighbors” and “Now You See Me,” he has stepped into offbeat territory with films like “The Little Hours” and “Together,” the latter starring his wife, Alison Brie. Franco emphasized that he is drawn to risky roles and stories that aim to surprise audiences rather than replicate familiar formulas.
Franco’s interest in acting began in his youth in Palo Alto, California. His first job at 14 was in a local video store, where he developed a passion for films like “Being John Malkovich” and “Fight Club.” Reflecting on his early career, he recounted a memorable audition mishap involving a misunderstanding of industry jargon, which ultimately contributed to his casting in his 2007 debut film “Superbad.” While he missed out on certain roles, including “Little Miss Sunshine,” Franco believes these experiences contributed to his growth as an actor.
After being often cast in “dirtbag bro” roles, Franco credits collaborators such as Seth Rogen and directors Phil Lord and Christopher Miller with broadening his range. His portrayal of Greg Sestero in the 2017 biographical film “The Disaster Artist” marked a significant shift, allowing audiences to see a different side of him beyond villainous characters. Nevertheless, he continues to embrace complex antagonist roles, most recently voicing a villainous character named Titus in Disney/Pixar’s animated comedy “Hoppers.” The film tested limits for a PG-rated production, with a cut scene deemed too intense for children.
Looking ahead, Franco is set to lend his voice to the upcoming fantasy adventure “Forgotten Island,” opening September 25, and is developing projects as a writer and director. He has expressed admiration for Olivia Wilde’s film “The Invite,” noting its nuanced exploration of relationships, a theme he plans to revisit following his directorial work on “The Rental” and “Somebody I Used to Know,” both featuring Brie.
Franco describes his personal life as stable, contrasting with the chaotic characters he often portrays. “In my everyday life, I feel pretty even-keeled,” he said, while acknowledging a desire to take creative risks at work.