It’s no surprise James Franco’s latest film project, King Cobra, has garnered so much attention — it’s a sexy romp featuring a diverse cast of newcomers and familiar faces, all focused on real-life porn star, Brent Corrigan.

But is it worth watching? Here are five reasons you should go check it out when the film gets a wider release on October 21.

1. The Cast 

You may think a project like this would have a hard time attracting talent, but while many things in this film are hard, attracting talent certainly wasn’t one of them! Franco, Christian Slater, Alicia Silverstone and Molly Ringwald bring the star power, while relative newcomers Garrett Clayton and Keegan Allen add some fresh (but no less impressive) faces to the mix.

2. The Story 

While some (including Brent Corrigan himself) may argue the accuracy of this particular interpretation, the general story of King Cobra comes straight from the headlines of 2007. And it’s not just a “gay porn movie” (although that’s definitely a factor in the plot). It’s a story about abuse, manipulation, jealousy, naïveté, selfishness — and yes, sex and murder.

3. The Music

As one might expect, a film thriving on such sensational themes needs an equally sensory soundtrack. And King Cobra delivers. Tim Kvasnosky’s pulse-pounding score zips along with the fast-paced story, mirroring the rising tension of the film and accentuating the movie’s physicality.

4. James Franco

Say what you will about the oft-accused “gay-baiter,” but Franco doesn’t shy away from a passion project, and King Cobra has been on his radar for years. And no, he’s not lurking behind an executive producer title. Franco is right in front of the camera as Joe, a prominent (and deranged) player in the events of Corrigan’s early porn career. Franco’s known for his diverse role choices, and he continues the trend in King Cobra. What other movies can you see the star wielding a gun, joyriding in a Viper and screaming obscenities while on the receiving end of anal sex?

5. Garrett Clayton

Yes, we’ve mentioned Franco and the rest of the cast, but Clayton deserves a call-out all his own. The former Disney star sheds his family-friendly past in epic fashion, without falling prey to Miley Cyrus-like desperation. It’s a sexy, serious role, with just enough flounce to give Clayton more than two dimensions to work with.

Check out King Cobra later this month, and let us know what you think!