Coming-of-age movies have been around and remained popular for decades. The popularity of this genre has lasted so long because of its relatability.
The main focus of these films is growing up, finding your identity and navigating relationships in your life, whether that be your friends or family. No matter the generation, viewers can see parts of themselves in different characters, which is why movies like this follow us into adulthood.
One of the earliest coming-of-age films was Charlie Chaplin’s 1921 film, “The Kid.” It is a silent film that follows a baby after being abandoned by its mother, who left a note asking whoever found her child to love and take care of them.
Chaplin’s character finds and takes care of the child. The film explores themes of childhood growth and responsibility, which created a blueprint that many coming-of-age films still follow today.
The genre became most popular from about the 1980s all the way to the 2010s. Some of the most popular films of the 80s include “The Outsiders” of 1983, “Dead Poets Society” of 1989 and what is considered one of the most influential coming-of-age stories of all time, “The Breakfast Club” of 1985.
The film follows five teenagers from diverse social backgrounds who spend a day in detention together. As they open up to each other, they realize that stereotypes are harmful and they all share similar challenges with one another.
The movie made about $45.8 million and was inducted into the National Film Registry in 2016. The film also popularized Simple Minds’ song, “Don’t You (Forget About Me),” which reached number one on the Billboard charts and is still heavily referenced in today’s media.
Some of the more popular 90s movies include “Clueless,” “10 Things I Hate About You,” “The Sandlot” and “What’s Eating Gilbert Grape.”
Additionally, as we move into the 2010s and 2020s era of coming-of-age films, we move away from the witty and satirical style of storytelling and transition to focusing more on cinematography and storytelling.
Some of the most popular examples include “Lady Bird,” “The Perks of Being a Wallflower,” “Call Me by Your Name,” “Waves” and “Moonlight.”
“Moonlight” uses its cinematography as a reflection of our main character Chiron’s identity and vulnerability. This method helps us connect with the character throughout the movie and makes his journey more intimate.
Similarly, “Waves” uses the same method of close-up shots and specific lighting to show the intense emotions that occur during adolescence.
Coming-of-age movies remain important because of their ability to capture the universal experience of growing up in a way that feels honest and relatable. Through storytelling, music and cinematography, this genre of films helps reflect on the emotions and self-discovery that come with adolescence.
Their lasting impact comes from the emotional connections they make with the audience, which allows viewers to see their own experiences on screen and carry those stories with them for the rest of their lives.
