“Rebel Without a Cause,” “Bonnie and Clyde,” “The Wiz,” “Thelma & Louise,” “Reservoir Dogs,” “Unforgiven,” “Dazed and Confused,” “Fight Club,” “Kill Bill” — the movie references in “Young. Wild. Free.” pass by fast and furiously. Unfortunately, only viewers who haven’t seen all of the above are likely to appreciate the cinematic tropes on which this film’s plot rests — including a final twist that, depending on one’s perception, either enhances or undermines everything to come before it.
Where “Y.W.F” works best is as a showcase for the powerhouse performance of outstanding lead Algee Smith (“Euphoria”). Smith plays Brandon, a thoughtful high-school senior who’s forced to inhabit a range of roles each day: dutiful son, loving brother, aspiring artist, head of household.