Parijat Ghosh 
Everybody can relate to the messy, humorous, and emotional journey of growing up. Maybe that is why coming-of-age films are so enchanting. These films bring back memories of adolescent chaos, awkward friendships, first loves, and those insignificant events that helped mould us into the people we are today. Maybe you can look before the screen and share a laugh or two about your “what ifs”. These are the 5 best coming-of-age teen films that you should see at least once in your lifetime.
1. Lady Bird (2017)
Christine “Lady Bird” McPherson is a clever, rebellious teenager who wants to get away from her small-town upbringing and her frequent arguments with her mother.
The universal teenage desire to be somewhere other than here while still yearning for love and belonging is masterfully portrayed in the film.
It’s emotional, humorous, and unvarnished, demonstrating how our sloppy relationships with our parents and friends influence us more than we may think.
2. The Perks of Being a Wallflower (2012)
Charlie is a timid, reclusive freshman who is battling past trauma and the dreadful experience of entering high school alone.
When two endearing seniors, Patrick and Sam, take him under their wing and make him feel like he belongs, his life completely changes.
The film is a moving exploration of friendship, healing, and the idea that even the most silent voices should be heard and looked upon.
3. Booksmart (2019)
On the final night of high school, Amy and Molly, two straight-A students, suddenly realise they forgot to have fun.
A crazy, chaotic night full of misadventures, uncomfortable chit chats, and the realization that balance is important in life ensues.
Their tale walks us through the realization that even rule-followers have amazing adventures to tell and that being brainy isn’t the magic pill to happiness.
4. Eighth Grade (2018)
Kayla is a nervous middle schooler who finds it difficult to blend in because she feels invisible in real life and wants to project confidence online.
Her story captures the awkwardness of adolescence in the era of YouTube, Instagram, and the incessant pressure to appear “cool.” It reminds us of how brave and terrifying those middle school years truly felt at the time, and it’s both endearing and embarrassing.
5. The Edge of Seventeen (2016)
Nadine is a clever but lonely teenager who feels misinterpreted by everyone else and eclipsed by her ideal brother.
Her sardonic humour belies her actual battles with heartbreak, loneliness, and the desperate need to find someone who genuinely feels her suffering.
It reminds us that even the most dramatic adolescent struggles can result in growth and resilience; it is relatable, incisive, and surprisingly heartfelt.
Conclusion: Why Movies Like These Make Sense
All the protagonists here are not superheroes; rather, they are authentic, untidy, and memorable, and their tales mirror our own adolescent turmoil and emotional maturation. In simple words, they just get it.
We get nostalgic as we see how far we’ve come since then, as we watch them struggle, grow, and ultimately discover who they are.
If you have any suggestions on any Coming-of-Age movies, feel free to mention them in the comments below. For more content, stay tuned. As usual, like, subscribe, and share our articles as we here are trying to build a community of people High on Cinema!
