Coming-of-age films are a staple in our society, and an integral part of my childhood and young adulthood. Recently, I’ve sought out my favorites of this expansive genre for the comfort and nostalgia that they bring to me. For old time’s sake, here are some of my top picks:
“Sing Street” (2016) by John Carney starring Ferdia Walsh-Peelo and Lucy Boynton.
This might take the cake for my favorite musical movie. It follows a group of high school students in Dublin, Ireland, as they defy all odds and start a band. The music is amazing, the story between Raphina and Conor is completely captivating and the sets are beautiful. I went to Dublin last year and couldn’t help but imagine I was in the film — it was amazing.
“20th Century Women” (2016) by Mike Mills starring Annette Benning, Greta Gerwig, Elle Fanning and Lucas Jade Zumann.
This is my favorite movie of all time, as it currently stands. Simply the sweetest. This movie is full of care and love for the story and characters, with the ab-
solute best soundtrack that I couldn’t get enough of the first few times I watched this (Talking Heads, the Raincoats, David Bowie and more). It follows Jamie as he navigates growing up in 1979 Santa Barbara with the assistance of his mother, her tenant and his best friend.
“Juno” (2007) by Jason Reitman starring Elliot Page and Michael Cera.
This film is a classic for all intents and purposes. Page was Oscar-nominated for his role as Juno, and rightfully so, because he gives such a beautiful performance as the snarky yet genuine protagonist. Cera is also super funny as are the rest of the incredible supporting cast. This film is creative, charming and a must-watch for anyone whether you’re a fan of the people involved or not.
“Pump Up The Volume” (1990) by Allan Moyle starring Christian Slater
This is a film that I recently revisited and really enjoyed. It follows Mark (Slater), an introverted teenager who finds an outlet for his controversial but insightful takes on the injustices and hypocrisies in society through his radio show. He tries to conceal his identity, but a determined student discovers the truth, and the school principal seeks to shut his show down. It’s so funny and weird and such a fun movie. Slater, from “Heathers” fame, is so good and makes this movie what it is.
While coming-of-age films can vary far and wide from stories of family, to stories of friends, to stories of radio shows, there is almost always something for everyone. There’s always a laugh to be had, a great new soundtrack to dive into or a character to see yourself in. Coming of age is a rite of passage — a canon event, if you will — and the movies that include this that are forever.
