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.
James (2015)
Inventively mixing elements of fantasy and real life, James offers a unique insight into the mind of a youngster dealing with bullies and family issues.
Out of the Darkness (1985)
This made-for-television film from the 1980s has been described as possibly the greatest kids' horror film ever made.
Believe (2013)
A waste of a good idea. I can hear Sir Matt Busby turning in his grave at this insult of a tribute.
The Kitchen Toto (1987)
A film focusing on particularly turbulent times during the British colonial rule of Kenya and the Kikuyu tribe uprising that sparked the aspirations of independence for the African nation.
Before I Wake (2016)
Before I Wake is a rare Coming-of-Age horror movie featuring some good suspenseful scenes and a surprising plot twist at the end.
Cup Fever (1965)
A film worth a look for any soccer fan in a historical context, but the strong storyline and direction give it universal appeal. Vintage family fun with a historical twist.
Shok (2015)
Shok offers a poignant Coming-of-Age narrative focusing on the friendship between two young Albanian boys during in war-torn Kosovo.
Crazy Love (1987)
A film in three acts, following its protagonist from childhood through adulthood. Shocking at times, it's none-the-less recommended.
The Kissing Place (1990)
An intriguing little film about a little boy who discovers a chilling secret about his “parents”.
Night Hair Child (AKA What the Peeper Saw) (1972)
A film with a cleverly written screenplay, daring themes, and an ending that possesses one of the most shocking final twists of its era.
This is England (2006)
This is England is British cinema at its best: gritty realism, biting observation and the revelation of uncomfortable truths. While not always easy to watch, the rewards are well worth the effort.
Fragile (2014)
Australian Writer/Director Juliet Juliana Mango's tale of an eight-year-old transgendered child featuring a solid acting performance by young Alex Bryans.
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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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