Top 5 Coming-of-Age Movies

Coming-of-age movies have always been popular and relatable, resonating with viewers on a deep level. Whether we watch them during our own transformative years or reminisce about our own coming-of-age experiences, these films have a way of capturing emotions and memories. Collider chose five outstanding movies in which the journey of self-discovery takes center stage.

5. "Moonlight" (2016)

"Moonlight" condenses the significant phases of life - childhood, adolescence, and early adulthood - into a captivating 111-minute movie. The storyline revolves around the life of Chiron, a young Black man whose character is portrayed by different actors throughout his life stages. This film authentically portrays the struggles of growing up Black and homosexual in America, shedding light on the challenges of finding acceptance and authenticity in a sometimes harsh world. With its realism, rawness, and heartfelt messages, "Moonlight" became an inspiring cinematic gem, earning critical acclaim and an Oscar for Best Picture.

4. "Boyhood" (2014)

A distinctive production that took an astonishing 12 years to complete, "Boyhood" traces the journey of a boy named Mason from the age of six to his impending adulthood at 18. This film successfully captures the essence of growing up in the early years of the 21st century. Unlike other movies, "Boyhood" embraces a unique approach of following the same actors as they genuinely age and evolve throughout the narrative. Through a series of events and authentic everyday moments, viewers witness the protagonist's growth, challenges, and blossoming self-awareness.

3. "The Breakfast Club" (1985)

Regarded as one of the forerunners in coming-of-age films, "The Breakfast Club" stands as a legendary masterpiece from the talented director John Hughes. Set in a high school during a weekend detention, the movie intertwines humor, drama, and relatable teenage struggles. Delving into the lives of five diverse students, the story portrays how they gradually connect, revealing shared experiences and unraveling the stereotypes that society imposes upon them. With its memorable characters and timeless themes of identity, friendship, and solidarity, "The Breakfast Club" remains a beloved classic.

2. "Stand by Me" (1986)

One of the most unforgettable coming-of-age movies of the 1980s, "Stand by Me" skillfully adapts Stephen King's novella, "The Body," for the big screen. The plot revolves around four young boys who embark on an adventurous quest to find a dead body located in a remote area. As their journey unfolds, the film magnificently depicts the myriad ways in which this experience changes and shapes their lives forever. "Stand by Me" highlights the power of friendship, the complexities of growing up, and the bittersweet nature of youth.

1. "The 400 Blows" (1959)

Considered one of the greatest classics in the genre, "The 400 Blows" emerged in 1959 and continues to captivate audiences with its timeless exploration of adolescence. The story revolves around Antoine Doinel, an adolescent boy navigating the challenges of youth, rebelling against authority, and confronting societal norms. François Truffaut meticulously portrays Antoine's experiences, capturing his moments of joy, disillusionment, and inevitable run-ins with the law. "The 400 Blows" remains an enduring masterpiece, setting the stage for future films focused on coming-of-age, while serving as a powerful reminder of the struggles and triumphs of young life.

These five movies each offer a unique and captivating perspective on the coming-of-age experience. From inclusivity and self-discovery to friendship and personal growth, they provide an emotional and thought-provoking journey that resonates with audiences across generations.

Earlier SSP told about the most watched Netflix movies of all time.