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.
14+ (2015)
An accurate portrayal of what it is like to be a teenager nowadays, presented in a thoughtful and honest manner.
Snake Bite (2016)
A suspenseful short film, Snake Bite grabs one’s interest and holds it throughout – all the way to its original ending.
The Perks of Being a Wallflower (2012)
An excellent Coming-Of-Age drama/romance that does almost everything right. Highly recommended!
The Demons (2015)
As a coming-of-age drama, The Demons, is not light entertainment, it is a realistic perspective of the world of the guiltless and the guilty.
The Liverpool Goalie (2010)
First-love, friendship, bullying, self-acceptance and respect, The Liverpool Goalie shares the characteristics of many Coming-of-Age films, but without clichés. A fun filled, refreshing cinematic experience.
Changes (2014)
A Coming-of-Age story touching on topics such as bullying, racism, individualism vs group mentality and self-acceptance.
Just a Dream (2002)
An excellent film with a real message in its story, Just a Dream deserves to be seen and enjoyed.
Low Tide (2012)
The story of a real family, Low Tide movie gives us an opportunity to participate in the life of a boy and his mother -- not in a voyeuristic way, but as a companion.
Tom Brown’s Schooldays (2005)
From the novel of the same name, Tom Brown's Schooldays is a remarkably powerful story set in Victorian England.
Paperhouse (1988)
A female Coming-of-Age movie that tried hard to capture a child's imagination and deal with issues such as grief, compassion, memories, and friendship, but largely fails to do so.
The Dynamiter (2011)
The Dynamiter is a Coming-of-Age drama about brotherhood and spiritual leadership creating hope out of hopelessness.
A Bloody Tale (1969)
A Bloody Tale is an impactful, harsh and well-acted film that is wholeheartedly recommended.
Explore more titles
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.
Advertisement