1. Stand By Me (1986)
GiphyBeing an older film and slightly slower than this generations movies, four friends take on a journey that will change their lives forever. With bad influences around every corner, Gordie, Chris, Teddy, and Vern learn that you do not have to be your parents and you have every opportunity to be who you want to be.
2. Almost Famous (2000)
GiphySex, drugs, and rock'n'roll. A Cameron Crowe classic. Touring around the country at 15-years-old, William Miller discovers the inner world of love, life, and friendship. Kate Hudson's iconic character, Penny Lane, teaches you how to be a great friend and a badass woman.
3. Dazed and Confused (1993)
GiphyDespite being Matthew McConaughey's big break, "Dazed and Confused" takes you through the last day of school for the average high school student in the 70's. Doing nothing but partying and making memories, this movie makes you want to stay 17 forever with your high school friends.
4. The Breakfast Club (1985)
GiphyIf you haven't already, watch "The Breakfast Club." Iconic quotes, relatable feelings, and tears of joy and sorrow, this movie hits hard for the struggling teenager who feels like they have no place to belong.
5. Boyz N The Hood (1991)
Giphy"Boyz N The Hood" has the harsh reality of a kid that can grow up in South Central with the things we love about childhood and the fears that come to us during adulthood. This movie holds a high remark on friends that turn into family.
6. The Perks of Being a Wall Flower (2012)
GiphyIn my opinion, "The Perks Of Being A Wallflower" is a top 10 movie of the 20th Century. Focusing on mental health and finding your place, this movie allows you to develop empathy throughout the entire film and teach you that you are never alone. Of course, let's not forget the iconic tunnel scene.
7. The Sandlot (1993)
GiphyThe reason why "The Sandlot" is constantly in the debate of one of the greatest sports movies of all time is because of the word innocence. No matter what age you are, when you watch "The Sandlot" you can relax and enjoy watching nine boys enjoy their childhood and make memories that last a lifetime.
8. Good Will Hunting (1997)
GiphyTwo reasons to watch "Good Will Hunting"
1. Life, love, relationships, family, friends, money, and everything in between. Good Will Hunting is a movie that works every part of your heart and brain. A Robin Williams classic with lessons for any situation.
2. Young Matt Damon
9. Dead Poets Society (1989)
Giphy"Dead Poets Society" teaches you that your life is your own. Words are not just words and ideas are not just simple thoughts. You have the power to not be who your parents want you to be but be somebody that you're proud of.
10. The Way, Way Back (2013)
Giphy"The Way, Way Back" uses tough life decisions and hard teenage feelings and presents them in a way with humor and summer fun. Learning to be nothing but yourself and standing up for what you believe in, this movie is a perfect summer night idea.
While these are certainly not the only coming of age movies in the genre, these are the movies that have stuck with me as I have faced hard truths in the reality of growing up.
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