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 Confirmation (2016)
The Confirmation is a new film which has the unmistakable feel of an independent Canadian production, slightly art-house - serious and with a narrative focusing on real-life issues.
The Children of Dynmouth (BBC Screen Two, 1987)
William Trevor's screenplay adaptation of his Whitbread Award-winning novel "The Children of Dynmouth" is simply stunning.
Bloody Kids (1979)
A dark story of a disturbed youth who persuades his easily-led school friend to take part in a prank that goes too far.
Møv og Funder (1991)
Despite its relatively short screen time, Møv og Funder's simple narrative is filled with nuances that make it intriguing and action that makes it intense and a joy to watch.
Oliver Twist (Disney, 1997)
A made for TV Disney movie of the classic Charles Dickens tale.
Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close (2011)
A story more complex than it appears on the surface featuring Thomas Horn in a remarkably lifelike depiction of a child on the autistic spectrum who is trying to cope with overpowering grief..and more.
My Family and Other Animals (2005)
The experiences of an eccentric British family's stay on Corfu (Greece) as seen through the eyes of its youngest family member.
My Life So Far (1999)
My Life So Far offers a splendid depiction of innocent childhood curiosity -- a perfect choice for a family's evening entertainment.
My Friend Percy’s Magical Gym Shoes (1994)
A Swedish Coming-of-Age film based on a youth novel by Ulf Stark that will be enjoyed by younger viewers and grown-ups will find heartwarming and touching.
The Boy (2015)
Newcomer Jared Breeze delivers an impressively authentic performance in The Boy, an intimate portrait of a 9-year-old sociopath's growing fascination with death.
To See The Sea (2014 )
To See the Sea is easy going and entertaining, yet manages to emit a surprising amount of significance.
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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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