Films about adolescence delve into the complex, often tumultuous period of growth between childhood and adulthood. They explore themes of identity, belonging, love, and conflict, reflecting the diverse experiences of young people navigating their formative years. These stories can range from heartwarming tales of friendship and first love to gritty explorations of rebellion and self-discovery. Below are some notable films about adolescence, each offering a unique perspective on this pivotal chapter of life.
“The Breakfast Club”, 1985
Director: John Hughes
Directed by John Hughes, this iconic film captures the essence of American high school life through the eyes of five students serving detention, who represent different teenage stereotypes. Throughout the day, they break down the barriers between them, revealing their inner struggles and forming an unlikely bond.
Starring: Emilio Estevez, Molly Ringwald, Judd Nelson, Anthony Michael Hall, Ally Sheedy, Paul Gleason, John Kapelos, Perry Crawford, Mary Christian, Ron Dean;
Production year: 1985;
Genre: drama, comedy;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 97 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,8;
More information about the film “The Breakfast Club” on the website imdb.com
“Boyhood”, 2014
Director: Richard Linklater
Directed by Richard Linklater, this groundbreaking film was shot intermittently over 12 years, charting the growth of a young boy, Mason, from childhood to the brink of adulthood. It's a deeply personal portrayal of adolescence, family dynamics, and the passage of time.
Starring: Ellar Coltrane, Ethan Hawke, Patricia Arquette, Lorelei Linklater, Libby Villari, Elijah Smith, Steven Chester Prince, Bonnie Cross, Sydney Orta, Marco Perella;
Production year: 2014;
Genre: drama;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 166 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,9;
More information about the film “Boyhood” on the website imdb.com
“Juno”, 2007
Director: Jason Reitman
Directed by Jason Reitman and written by Diablo Cody, this film follows Juno MacGuff, a smart, witty high schooler who faces an unplanned pregnancy. With its sharp dialogue and compelling characters, Juno explores themes of maturity, responsibility, and the complexity of human relationships.
Starring: Elliot Page, Michael Cera, Jennifer Garner, Jason Bateman, Allison Janney, J.K. Simmons, Olivia Thirlby, Eileen Pedde, Rainn Wilson, Daniel Clark;
Production year: 2007;
Genre: drama, comedy;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 96 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,4;
More information about the film “Juno” on the website imdb.com
“Lady Bird”, 2017
Director: Greta Gerwig
Directed by Greta Gerwig, this film is a coming-of-age tale of Christine “Lady Bird” McPherson, a high school senior from Sacramento, California, who dreams of escaping her mundane life for something bigger. It beautifully captures the highs and lows of mother-daughter relationships, friendship, and self-discovery.
Starring: Saoirse Ronan, Laurie Metcalf, Tracy Letts, Lucas Hedges, Timothée Chalamet, Beanie Feldstein, Lois Smith, Stephen McKinley Henderson, Odeya Rush, Jordan Rodrigues;
Production year: 2017;
Genre: drama, comedy;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 94 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,4;
More information about the film “Lady Bird” on the website imdb.com
“Moonlight”, 2016
Director: Barry Jenkins
Directed by Barry Jenkins, this powerful film chronicles the life of a young black man, Chiron, as he grows up in a rough Miami neighborhood. Told in three acts, it explores Chiron's struggles with his identity and sexuality, offering a poignant look at the challenges faced by those marginalized by society.
Starring: Alex R. Hibbert, Ashton Sanders, Trevante Rhodes, Naomie Harris, Janelle Monae, Mahershala Ali, Jaden Piner, Jharrel Jerome, André Holland, Patrick Decile;
Production year: 2016;
Genre: drama;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 110 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,4;
More information about the film “Moonlight” on the website imdb.com
“The Perks of Being a Wallflower”, 2012
Director: Stephen Chbosky
Directed by Stephen Chbosky, based on his novel of the same name, this film follows Charlie, an introverted freshman, as he navigates the complex world of high school. It's a heartwarming and honest portrayal of adolescence, dealing with themes of friendship, love, and overcoming trauma.
Starring: Logan Lerman, Emma Watson, Ezra Miller, Nina Dobrev, Dylan McDermott, Kate Walsh, Paul Rudd, Mae Whitman, Adam Hagenbuch, Johnny Simmons;
Production year: 2012;
Genre: drama;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 102 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,9;
More information about the film “The Perks of Being a Wallflower” on the website imdb.com
“The Edge of Seventeen”, 2016
Director: Kelly Fremon Craig
Directed by Kelly Fremon Craig, this film tells the story of Nadine, a high school junior experiencing all the drama and turmoil of adolescence. Its sharp wit and genuine depiction of teenage angst illustrate the universal challenges of growing up.
Starring: Hailee Steinfeld, Haley Lu Richardson, Blake Jenner, Kyra Sedgwick, Woody Harrelson, Hayden Szeto, Alexander Calvert, Eric Keenleyside, Nesta Cooper, Daniel Bacon;
Production year: 2016;
Genre: drama, comedy;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 104 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,3;
More information about the film “The Edge of Seventeen” on the website imdb.com
These films not only entertain but also resonate with audiences by reflecting the universal truths and trials of adolescence.
In conclusion, films about adolescence masterfully capture the tumultuous journey from childhood to adulthood, leaving indelible impressions on both young audiences experiencing these transformations firsthand and adults reflecting on their own passage through these formative years. Through the lens of diverse narratives, from the plight of coming-of-age in a dysfunctional family to the exhilarating rush of first love, these films offer a rich tapestry of emotional experiences. They navigate through themes of identity, belonging, and resilience, often set against the backdrop of societal pressures and personal upheavals. By portraying adolescence with authenticity, empathy, and a keen understanding of its complexities, these films not only entertain but also serve as vital cultural artifacts that validate the struggles and triumphs of growing up, making them an essential chapter in the cinephile's library.
