Emerging adulthood is a phase of life that has been increasingly explored in cinema, focusing on characters typically in their late teens to late twenties navigating the complexities of modern transitions into adult roles and responsibilities. These narratives often capture pivotal moments such as relationships, career choices, personal growth, and the search for identity.
“Frances Ha”, 2012
Director: Noah Baumbach
This black and white film follows Frances Halladay, a 27-year-old aspiring dancer in New York City, struggling to embrace adulthood while maintaining her joyful, if often impractical, outlook on life.
Starring: Greta Gerwig, Mickey Sumner, Michael Esper, Adam Driver, Michael Zegen, Charlotte d'Amboise, Grace Gummer, Daiva Deupree, Isabelle McNally, Vanessa Ray;
Production year: 2012;
Genre: drama, melodrama, comedy;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 86 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,4;
More information about the film “Frances Ha” on the website imdb.com
“The Graduate”, 1967
Director: Mike Nichols
A timeless classic where recent college graduate Benjamin Braddock, unsure of his future, is seduced by an older woman, Mrs. Robinson, and then falls in love with her daughter, Elaine, which complicates his journey into adult life.
Starring: Anne Bancroft, Dustin Hoffman, Katharine Ross, William Daniels, Murray Hamilton, Elizabeth Wilson, Buck Henry, Brian Avery, Walter Brooke, Norman Fell;
Production year: 1967;
Genre: drama, melodrama, comedy;
MPAA rating: pg;
Duration: 105 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 8;
More information about the film “The Graduate” on the website imdb.com
“Into the Wild”, 2007
Director: Sean Penn
Based on true events, this film tells the story of Christopher McCandless, a young graduate who gives up his possessions and savings to travel across America on a journey of self-discovery and ultimate challenge to the standard path of adulthood.
Starring: Emile Hirsch, Hal Holbrook, Marcia Gay Harden, William Hurt, Jena Malone, Brian H. Dierker, Catherine Keener, Vince Vaughn, Kristen Stewart, Jim Galien;
Production year: 2007;
Genre: drama, adventure, biography;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 148 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 8,1;
More information about the film “Into the Wild” on the website imdb.com
“Garden State”, 2003
Director: Zach Braff
Returning to his hometown for his mother's funeral, a struggling actor reconnects with old friends and meets a new acquaintance, leading to revelations about his life and confrontations with his past.
Starring: Zach Braff, Natalie Portman, Peter Sarsgaard, Ian Holm, Jean Smart, Armando Riesco, Jackie Hoffman, Method Man, Alex Burns, Ron Leibman;
Production year: 2003;
Genre: drama, melodrama, comedy;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 102 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,4;
More information about the film “Garden State” on the website imdb.com
“Boyhood”, 2014
Director: Richard Linklater
Filmed over twelve years with the same cast, this revolutionary film follows the life of Mason from early childhood to his arrival at college, capturing the fleeting moments of growing up and the real experiences of emerging adulthood.
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
“Reality Bites”, 1994
Director: Ben Stiller
A look at the lives of a group of recent college graduates dealing with the harsh realities of adulthood, love, and careers in the early 1990s, encapsulating the Gen X spirit and struggles.
Starring: Winona Ryder, Ethan Hawke, Janeane Garofalo, Steve Zahn, Ben Stiller, Swoosie Kurtz, Harry O'Reilly, Susan Norfleet, Joe Don Baker, Renée Zellweger;
Production year: 1994;
Genre: drama, melodrama, comedy;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 99 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 6,6;
More information about the film “Reality Bites” on the website imdb.com
Each of these films brings a unique perspective on the transitional phase of emerging adulthood, often with poignant and relatable storytelling.
In conclusion, films that delve into the theme of emerging adulthood provide audiences with valuable insights into the complexities and challenges faced by young adults as they navigate their way through this pivotal stage of life. These films often highlight the pursuit of identity, the struggle for independence, and the importance of meaningful relationships, resonating with viewers who are experiencing or have experienced similar journeys. By blending humor, drama, and authenticity, these films not only entertain but also offer a mirror to the audience's own experiences, fostering a deeper understanding of the nuances of growing up and finding one's place in the world.
