Reviews
A curated collection of coming-of-age film reviews focusing on the transitional period of youth. Discover thoughtful critiques that prioritize emotional impact, empathy, and the fragile beauty of growing up on screen. We celebrate young artistic talent and the timeless stories that bridge the gap between childhood and adulthood.
Little Big Voice (2015)
Set in Austria in 1955, Littel Big Voice is a moving story of a ten-year-old boy who, after the death of his mother, tries to fulfil his dreams in post-war Europe – in the face of many obstacles.
The War with Grandpa (2020)
The War With Grandpa is a typical family-friendly, easygoing comedy that will keep you laughing.
Raymie (1960)
A Coming-of-Age film about a nine-year-old boy who is an avid fisherman with a big dream: catching a legendary giant barracuda know as Old Moe.
Wallah Be (2002)
A stray dog and a song contest test a young boy's mettle in this Danish Coming-of-Age film.
Lolo (2019)
A Coming-of-Age film that addresses a sensitive subject in a fun, easy-going manner.
Seduction Theory (2014)
Seduction Theory features an excellent performance by its youthful lead and superb storytelling -- a great way to experience an original and well told Coming-of-Age story.
Phoenix 11·23 (2012)
An excellent Coming-of-Age film that can be enjoyed by people of all ages – who may see the story either as warning or as an inspiration.
Stolen Days (2020)
Stolen Days is a masterpiece of the Coming-of-Age cinema, with a story capable of engaging viewers of all ages.
Luminous Motion (1998)
A film featuring an unconventional childhood and a strong mother-son relationship, Luminous Motion is a mixture of a road film, Coming-of-Age drama and fantasy.
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Léolo(1992)
Léolo is an exemplary Coming-of-Age film, but it requires a specific interest in the genre to fully appreciate it.
Jestem (I Am) – A Profound Coming-of-Age Masterpiece
Jestem is a rare film: a story of survival, of longing, and of the complex architecture of a child’s mind—rendered with precision, empathy, and a profound emotional honesty that lingers long after the credits roll.
Peppermint(1999)
Peppermint (1999) is a Greek Coming-of-Age film starring Giorgos Gerontidakis as young Stefanos Karouzos. Through imaginative childhood adventures, first love, and nostalgic reflections, the film captures the charm and emotional depth of growing up, highlighting the observational style and subtle humor of late ’90s Greek cinema.
The Reflecting Skin (1990) — Growing Into the Darkness
Georgi returns to The Reflecting Skin nearly two decades after his first review — uncovering new layers of fear, beauty, and loss in Philip Ridley’s haunting coming-of-age masterpiece.
Griffin in Summer (2024)
Griffin in Summer is an American independent film in which Griffin’s story delivers a thoughtful, well-acted, and unique Coming-of-Age journey, with enough charm and subtlety to linger in your mind long after the credits roll.
A Father for Charlie (1995)
A Father for Charlie may be a made-for-TV film, but its emotional honesty speaks louder than any big production. With heartfelt performances and a story that touches on themes of morality and compassion, it’s a quietly powerful film.
Secret Delivery (2025)
Set in the final months of World War II, Secret Delivery follows a Czech boy who sneaks across the border into the German Reich to spend time with a German friend. Whenthey come across a wounded French pilot, an adventure begins.
Marshmallow (2025)
Marshmallow (2025) begins with atmospheric horror and psychological intrigue but loses momentum in its slow middle act. While the film is saved somewhat by a clever and imaginative ending, it struggles to justify its feature-length runtime.
The Good Son (1993)
The Good Son follows Mark Evans (Elijah Wood), a boy sent to live with his cousin Henry (Macaulay Culkin) after a family tragedy, only to uncover Henry’s sinister nature beneath a facade of charm.
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