Coming-of-Age Movies: The Stories That Change How We See Life

A look at films that shape our perspective on life and growing up.

by Camie Devlin ★ March 23rd, 2026

Photo Credit: Sienna Rene

The Power of Movies

Have you ever watched a movie that left you feeling inspired or life-changing even? Seeing characters on the screen portraying scenarios that we experience in our everyday lives can feel comforting because it gives us reassurance that we are not alone. It can shape our view on life when we see the bigger picture and the message the movie is conveying to us. 

That is why the genre of coming-of-age hits us the hardest because it represents a theme of finding your personal identity and development through the stages of growing up. They capture the growth of navigating love, friendships, heartbreaks, and transitions of life to understand who we are or want to become. 

I’ve put a list of my movies that I think everyone should watch or revisit, because sometimes we never get the message the first time. 

The Coming-of-Age Movie Guide: 

Before I Fall (Hulu)

A popular high school girl’s life changes after she dies in a car crash and ends up reliving the same day over and over again. She navigates the mystery behind the loop by understanding the power of making changes on her own through identity, friendships, and empathy. 

The Edge of Seventeen (Hulu)

Starring Hailee Steinfeld, who portrays a high schooler who is mourning the loss of her father, feels disconnected from her life, living in the shadow of her older brother. This movie will make you cry, laugh, and also feel relatable. 

Eighth Grade 

A comedy that replicates the awkward moments that we all experienced in middle school. We see a young girl striving to fit in, meet a nice boy, and be a part of the crowd.  

Lady Bird (Hulu)

If you are a big fan of Timothée Chalamet or just love seeing him on your screen, you’ll love this movie. It follows a girl who is struggling with her family, love life, and friendships before she heads off to college to follow her dreams to study the arts.  

The Perks of Being a Wildflower (HBO Max, Hulu)

This movie will definitely make you cry. Logan Lerman plays the role of a freshman in high school who joins the crowd of two seniors who help him navigate love and friendship, while trying to heal from his past trauma. 

Barbie (HBO Max)

Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling play Barbie and Ken, where they end up in the real-world after escaping the pink and perfect world of Barbie Land. This movie is so powerful and impactful because it highlights the understanding of societal standards of women and men that we see today. 

You’ll laugh, cry, but more importantly, you will definitely feel a personal connection with these movies because they don’t paint a perfect picture and show the pains and growth of living.

Edited by: Ava Robbins