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.
The Black Man (2009)
A Coming-of-Age film in which the main protagonist told from a child's perspective, progressively inventive, mischievous and dazzling – all mixed in with bittersweet nostalgia.
No Letting Go (2015)
No Letting Go is a Coming-of-Age film which recounts the trials and tribulations of a young boy suffering from a bipolar disorder, following his life from infancy through adolescence.
The Angel Doll (2002)
For those looking for an easy going/feel good film, The Angel Doll will fit the bill perfectly.
Jojo Rabbit (2019)
Slightly controversial, yet hilarious, Taika Waititi's 2019 film Jojo Rabbit is a refreshing Coming-of-Age film, full of energy and emotion, that guarantees the viewer's enjoyment.
Foureyes (2013)
Foureyes is a convincing portrayal of an uncomfortable Coming of Age curiosity turning into agony for young Bobby.
Good Boys (2019)
In Good Boys, child actor Jacob Tremblay partners with other up-and-coming fresh-faced youngsters in order to do all kinds of mischief.
Parents (1989)
Parents is an excellent and unjustly neglected horror-comedy-Coming-of-Age film from a very talented director.
Interior (2018)
A tale about a single mother and her son – each looking for love of a different nature, and neither finding it.
Daniel fait face (2018)
Daniel, 10 years old, gets lost in the school corridors. He catches Marthe changing in the dressing room.
Between the two children a new relationship will be forged.
Under the Sun (2012)
Under the Sun (Bajo el Sol) offers an intriguing visual take on sibling rivalry.
Last Summer (2018)
Beautifully shot and immaculately acted, Last Summer relates the tale of four young boys whose lives change forever when a horrific tragedy uproots their childlike innocence.
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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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