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Rockaway (2017)

Rockaway, a 2017 Coming-of-Age drama directed and written by John J. Budion, depicts the tale of two brothers, Anthony and John, who go through a difficult upbringing with an abusive father.

The story of the film takes place over the summer of 1994, and it takes us on a journey that involves friendship, resiliency, a quest for retaliation and ultimately sacrifice.

The cinematography is one of the film’s strongest aspects. Slow-motion scenes, close-ups, and a variety of camera perspectives successfully conjure a sense of nostalgia contributing to the enhancement of the Coming-of-Age themes that are at the heart of the tale.

The nostalgic visuals create a strong boyhood charm, making Rockaway feel like a homage to classic Coming-of-Age films, such as Stand By Me and The Sandlot.

Maxwell Apple and Keidrich Sellati in Rockaway (2017)
Maxwell Apple and Keidrich Sellati in Rockaway

Despite dealing with grim themes, including domestic abuse, the film remains accessible and captivating for audiences. Its engaging narrative and well-rounded characters contribute to a thought-provoking and poignant exploration of resilience and brotherly love. 

The acting in Rockaway is a prominent component of the film, particularly when it comes to the performances of the young cast members. Maxwell Apple offers a nuanced portrayal of young John, capturing the character’s introversion and fragility, while Keidrich Sellati shines as Anthony, delivering a believable portrait of a youngster navigating a tumultuous family situation.

The connection between Apple and Sellati is natural and endearing, making their brotherly bond all the more convincing and intriguing.The supporting cast is similarly remarkable, with performers like Colin Critchley and James DiGiacomo infusing life into their particular roles and providing complexity to the entire tale. 

Unfortunately, despite the good performances of the young cast,  the film falls short in terms of evoking a more personal emotional impact. The reason for that could be hidden in the directing or the fact that the performance of the adult cast is not on par with that of the young actors, which is not that infrequent in Coming-of-Age narratives. 

The soundtrack of the movie combines rock and urban rap, which intensifies the atmosphere and provides an interesting and vivid background for the plot.

Fans of the Coming-of-Age genre will appreciate the dynamic exchanges among the youthful ensemble, maybe evoking nostalgic memories of their own childhoods. In a nutshell, Rockaway is an enthralling Coming-of-Age story that addresses challenging topics while retaining a feeling of hope and nostalgia.

Rockaway (2017)
In short
Rockaway is an enthralling Coming-of-Age story that addresses challenging topics while retaining a feeling of hope and nostalgia.
Character/Acting
Score/Soundtrack
Cinematography
Storyline/Screenplay
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Direction
Reader Rating0 Votes
3.7
Our rating

Bjarne: The 10-Year-Old Sensation Captivating Germany on The Voice Kids

It is not the first time that we have been extremely impressed by an incredibly talented young vocalist from Germany.  Back in 2013, RJ Mendera wrote an article introducing a young performer from Offenburg, Germany: Mike Singer.  Though it feels like only yesterday, Mike has come a long way since his break through performance on The Voice Kids Germany. Since those early days, he has blossomed into a promising young artist, transforming his raw talent into a burgeoning singing career. 

Bjarne the voice kids
Bjarne – The Voice Kids

The Voice Kids Germany has once again brought forth an extraordinarily talented young performer – the remarkable 10-year-old Bjarne. Possessing a voice that transcends his age, Bjarne has the unique ability to touch the souls of his listeners with every heartfelt note. At the blind auditions, he performed Someone You Loved by Lewis Capaldi. Stepping onto the stage with a toy rabbit in hand, Bjarne’s unassuming presence quickly gave way to a jaw-dropping performance that showcased a vocal range and emotional depth well beyond his years. His blind audition on The Voice Kids Germany in March 2024 immediately garnered attention, establishing him as a rising star in the competition.

With his impressive vocal abilities and charming demeanor, Bjarne has already amassed a dedicated following on social media (more than 94 thousands followers on Instagram, including the author of this article, plus over 100 million views of his performance on TikTok). This young talent’s infectious enthusiasm and genuine passion for music continues to inspire viewers both in Germany and around the globe (I found out about his performance on X).  As the competition on The Voice Kids Germany continues to heat up, all eyes are on Bjarne to see just how far his incredible voice and captivating presence will take him. One thing is for certain: Bjarne is a name to remember, as this young sensation continues to make waves in the world of music.

This article seeks to offer a glimpse into the remarkable talent that Bjarne possesses — a gift that leaves a lasting impression on all who experience it. Young artists like Bjarne have the power to inspire and uplift, enriching the lives of those fortunate enough to encounter their extraordinary abilities. By sharing his story, we celebrate the promise of his bright future and the joy that his music brings to fans around the globe.

Rounding First (2005)

Rounding First is a Coming-of-Age film that follows the adventures of three young boys in American suburbia. Set against a backdrop of classic 1980s and 1990s nostalgia, the movie explores the universal themes of friendship, family, and growing up.

The film’s strongest assets are its trio of likable and distinct protagonists. Their individual personalities, engaging dialogues, and interactions provide a solid foundation for the story. Each character brings a unique perspective, allowing viewers to connect with their experiences and challenges.

One standout aspect of Rounding First is its use of nostalgic elements, such as bike rides, baseball games, and arcade machines. These details effectively transport the audience to a simpler time and create an immersive environment.

However, the film suffers from slow pacing and a lack of depth in certain areas. While the characters are well-developed, the overall story feels drawn-out and fails to maintain consistent momentum. The final scenes and ending may leave viewers feeling somewhat confused and unsatisfied.

In conclusion, Rounding First presents an interesting and nostalgic tale with sympathetic characters, but its pacing and story development hold it back from being a truly great Coming-of-Age film. Fans of the genre may still find aspects to enjoy, but more casual viewers might struggle to stay engaged throughout the entire movie.

Trailer

Vicarious: A Parable (2024)

Vicarious is a short film with good intentions, aiming to deliver an inspirational message about selflessness and sacrifice. Set in a small American school in the early 1900s, the film creates an authentic atmosphere through its cinematography and production design.

However, the movie falls short in several areas. The decision to keep the story contained within a single schoolroom feels limiting and contributes to a sense of confinement. The acting, while visually appealing, feels rehearsed and lacks depth, which could have been improved with more improvisation. Incorporating improvisation into the acting could have added a sense of spontaneity and authenticity to the performances, allowing the actors to truly inhabit their characters and respond to each other in the moment. This would have brought a fresh energy and naturalness to the film, enhancing the overall viewing experience.

Additionally, the rapid editing style feels out of place in a period film, creating a disconnect between the visuals and the narrative. While the overall message is admirable, the execution leaves much to be desired. In the end, Vicarious is a well-intentioned but ultimately lackluster short film that struggles to make a lasting impact.

Perl oder Pica (2006)

Perl oder Pica (Little Secrets) is a delightful Coming-of-Age film set in post-war Luxembourg. Based on an autobiographical novel, the movie follows the adventures of Norbi, a 12-year-old boy navigating the complexities of growing up in a rapidly changing world.

With its relatable characters, immersive setting, and heartfelt storytelling, Perl oder Pica offers a charming addition to the Coming-of-Age genre.

As an altar boy, Norbi is expected to maintain a pious and innocent demeanor, but his curiosity and mischievous nature often lead him into various escapades. Throughout the movie, Norbi grapples with the challenges of fitting in at school, understanding his father’s values, and making sense of the world around him.

His adventures and relationships help paint a vivid picture of life in post-war Luxembourg, as Norbi learns valuable lessons about growing up, friendship, and family.

The contrast between Norbi’s role as an altar boy and his hidden rebellious streak is especially intriguing. While he dons the garments of an angelic figure, Norbi secretly indulges in his own form of rebellion, using the money he earns as an altar boy to buy cigarettes.

This dichotomy between Norbi’s outward appearance and his true nature not only adds depth to his character but also serves as a metaphor for the societal tensions and contradictions prevalent in post-war Luxembourg. By presenting a protagonist who simultaneously embodies both the angelic and the devilish, the film encourages viewers to consider the complexity of human behavior and the ways in which individuals navigate and resist societal expectations.

Perl oder Pica Trailer 

One of the most intriguing aspects of Perl oder Pica is its origin as an adaptation of an autobiographical novel by Jhemp Hoscheit. What makes this connection even more fascinating is that the lead protagonist in the movie, Norbi, is portrayed by Ben Hoscheit, who is the son of the author. This unique combination adds a layer of authenticity and personal connection to the story, as the audience witnesses the narrative brought to life by someone with a direct link to the original source material. The interplay between the written word and its cinematic interpretation, coupled with the familial connection, makes Perl oder Pica a truly distinctive and compelling Coming-of-Age film.

Ben Hoscheit as Norbi in Perl oder Pica ( 2006)

Perl oder Pica excels in creating a relatable and authentic portrayal of a young boy’s experiences. The film’s first-person narrative allows the audience to connect with Norbi on a personal level, while the documentary footage interspersed throughout the movie enhances the historical context.

One of the film’s most notable strengths is its exploration of universal themes such as curiosity, rebellion, and the search for identity. These themes are thoughtfully woven into the narrative, making Norbi’s journey both engaging and emotionally resonant. The movie’s attention to detail in set design and costumes helps to create an immersive atmosphere. This dedication to historical accuracy reinforces the film’s themes and adds depth to the overall storytelling.

While Perl oder Pica may not break new ground in the Coming-of-Age genre, its honesty and heart make it a standout addition. Fans of the genre will appreciate the film’s adherence to classic tropes, while those new to Coming-of-Age films will find it an accessible and enjoyable entry point.

Perl oder Pica (2006)
In short
Based on an autobiographical novel, Perl oder Pica follows the adventures of Norbi, a 12-year-old boy navigating the complexities of growing up in a rapidly changing world.
Character/Acting
Score/Soundtrack
Cinematography
Storyline/Screenplay
Production
Direction
Reader Rating1 Vote
3.9
Our rating

Someone You Love (2014)

In Someone You Love, director Pernille Fischer Christensen tells the heartfelt story of Thomas Jacob, a renowned musician who returns to his Danish hometown to reconcile with his estranged family. As Thomas embarks on a journey of personal growth and reflection, he forms an unexpected bond with his grandson, set against the backdrop of music and family drama.

While Someone You Love centers around the intergenerational relationship between Thomas and his grandson, it’s also worth noting that the film contains a Coming-of-Age narrative that challenges traditional notions of the genre. Coming-of-Age stories usually focus on adolescents navigating the trials and tribulations of growing up. However, in this film, the characters’ personal growth and self-discovery transcend age, reminding us that Coming-of-Age can occur at any stage of life.

Sofus Rønnov as Noa in Someone You Love (2014)

Mikael Persbrandt as Thomas delivers an extraordinary performance in a complex yet relatable role. At the same time, the role of Sofus Rønnov as Thomas’s grandson, Noa, is more of a supporting one as the narrative prioritizes Thomas’s personal journey over the growth and depth of the relationship between its central characters.

Music takes center stage in Someone You Love, serving as a diegetic score that reflects the characters’ emotional journeys. While the film touches on the healing power of music, this theme could have been explored more deeply to further enhance the narrative’s emotional resonance. However, the use of songs sung by Thomas adds an intimate and emotional layer to the story. 

One particularly powerful scene in Someone You Love moved me to tears, showcasing the film’s ability to evoke strong emotions through its compelling narrative and performances. In my mind, if a film can make me feel something, that’s often a sign of its quality. 

With its emphasis on personal growth, learning from past mistakes, and complex, relatable characters, Someone You Love stands out as a unique and engaging Coming-of-Age film. While the final scenes may not be as strong as the rest of the narrative, the film’s overall message and emotional impact make it a worthwhile watch. Though I would have appreciated a more realistic and less idealized resolution, Someone You Love remains a memorable and thought-provoking cinematic experience that showcases the importance of music, family, and self-discovery.

Someone You Love (2014)
In short
"Someone You Love" is a poignant and evocative cinematic journey that masterfully weaves together the transformative power of music, the intricate bonds of family, and the beauty of self-discovery.
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Reader Rating0 Votes
0
Our rating
IMBD

Thank God We Have Each Other (2022)

With its unique and captivating storyline and a talented ensemble cast of young actors, Anne Giafferi‘s 2002 film Thank God We Have Each Other (Heureusement qu’on s’a)  offers a refreshing take on the Coming-of-Age family drama genre.

In this case the term “family drama” can be taken quite literally as one such drama unfolds on screen.  The viewer observes the ways in which the characters affected deal with it and, as in life itself, no easy solutions are found and decisions lead to unforeseen consequences . 

Oscar Pauleau, who plays the role of Vincent, a thirteen-year-old boy, is the protagonist of this drama. Vincent is compelled to take care of his younger brother and sister when their mother makes an attempt to take her own life. 

 

Adding to the obstacles they face, the film’s teenage protagonist and his younger siblings are forced to rely on their father, who ultimately proves to be irresponsible and self-centered. It is interesting to note that the terms “immature,” “selfish,” and “irresponsible” define not the teenage image of Vincent, but rather the father once admired by his son.

Oscar Pauleau delivers a powerful performance, capturing the emotional journey of his character with authenticity and depth. His ability to convey complex emotions through subtle facial expressions is truly remarkable. His eyes, in particular, serve as windows into his character’s soul, revealing a depth of emotion that is both captivating and relatable for the audience. 

A co-production between France and Belgium and released as TV movie, Thank God We Have Each Other shares similar thematic elements with Edward Berger’s 2014 German drama Jack , Dardenne Brothers’ 2011 movie The Kid with a Bike, Philippe Claudel’s A Childhood, as well as the 2004 Japanese film Nobody Knows. All these films focus on abandonment and Coming- of-Age in a contemporary setting with strong young leads.

With its insightful exploration of adolescence and the complexities of family dynamics, Thank God We Have Each Other is a heartwarming and poignant film that will resonate with audiences of all ages.

Thank God We Have Each Other (2022)
In short
With its insightful exploration of adolescence and the complexities of family dynamics, Thank God We Have Each Other is a heartwarming and poignant film that will resonate with audiences of all ages.
Character/Acting
Score/Soundtrack
Cinematography
Storyline/Screenplay
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Direction
Reader Rating3 Votes
5
Our rating
IMBD

The Blue Butterfly (2004)

Ten-year-old Pete (Marc Donato) faces the hardships of a terrible brain tumor that has left him confined to a wheelchair, his sense of balance badly affected. Aware of his short time on this Earth, Pete clings to a great affinity for butterflies, with the blue morpho being the ultimate specimen he hopes to capture.

In a wonderful gesture, his devoted mother, Teresa (Pascale Bussières), seeks the expertise of the initially harsh entomologist, Alan (portrayed by William Hurt), to help realize Pete’s final wish.

Together, this odd trio embarks on a dramatic expedition into the depths of the jungle, seeking to make Pete’s dream a reality.

Marc Donato as Pete Carlton
Marc Donato as Pete Carlton

The film takes on an emotional note right from the first scene. The story becomes much more compelling when one realizes that the narrative is inspired by the true story of a terminally ill 10-year-old boy. At this point, I was expecting a heart-wrenching drama similar to what I’d seen in other Coming-of-Age films about cancer and the struggle for survival. (Oscar and the Pink Lady, The Cure, Matching Jack, Ways to Live Forever) – but it turned out that this was not the case with this film. 

Embracing the wonders of nature and the joy of discovery are important themes in the film. The cinematography of Pierre Mignot (who fans of the Coming-of-Age genre might know from the short film, Alone with Mr. Carter)  creates the impression of a documentary, with close-up shots of numerous insects and creatures found in the Costa Rican rainforest. It brought to mind Lamont Johnson‘s 1974 film, Visit to a Chief’s Son, which likewise has abundant animal and nature scenes. 

Much of the story is told in third the person, yet there are a few touching instances when Pete recounts his thoughts and impressions in the first person, allowing the audience to get a better insight into his character. Marc Donato`s acting is good enough to make his character believable and engage one with his story. 

William Hurt and Marc Donato in The Blue Butterfly (2004)
William Hurt and Marc Donato in The Blue Butterfly (2004)

The main themes of the film are hope and friendship (however unlikely the latter might be). Granted, the story might seem implausible to most adult viewers, yet some of them (including me, having fought and still fighting a cancer of my own) will be more than willing to forgo some disbelief in the name of hope (for it is said hope dies last). 

The ending came as a surprise and, while the viewer may, at times, feel they’re being manipulated emotionally (as is the case with most serious dramas with similar plots), it makes the watching experience somewhat more emotive. The Blue Butterfly does not have such an ending and, what’s more, it inspires hope.  We need more films like that.

Trailer 

The Blue Butterfly (2004)
In short
The Blue Butterfly is a film inspired by the true story of a terminally ill 10-year-old boy who's last wish is to capture the ultimate species of butterfly -- a blue morpho.
Character/Acting
Score/Soundtrack
Cinematography
Storyline/Screenplay
Production
Direction
Reader Rating1 Vote
3.8
Our rating
IMBD

A Minor Animal ( 2010)

The 2010 short film from Brazil, A Minor Animal, captivates audiences with its unpredictable plot twists and thought-provoking ending. It tells the story of a woman who finds herself trapped inside a well without knowing how she got there. The only person she has contact with is a boy, whose kindness and willingness to assist her are brought into question as the help he pledges never arrives.

As the woman’s desperation grows, she begins to suspect that the boy may not be as innocent as he initially seemed. The film explores themes of trust, betrayal, and the dark side of human nature, leaving viewers questioning the true intentions of both characters and eagerly awaiting the resolution of their mysterious predicament.

The tension is ever-present as one gathers insights into the personalities of the two protagonists from their dialogues. The dynamic nature of their interactions gives dimension to their characters, creating a gripping mood despite the fact that most sequences are shot either from the woman’s viewpoint looking up or from the boy’s viewpoint gazing down the well. These camera angles effectively convey the powerful dynamics at play between the woman and the boy, highlighting their contrasting positions in the narrative. Additionally, the use of these perspectives adds a sense of claustrophobia and unease, further immersing viewers in the suspenseful atmosphere of the film.

Recomended !

You can watch the entire film with English subtitles on its official webpage 

Dope Mister Dee (2020)

The short film Dope Mister Dee, written and directed by Juliet DeVette, deals with topics such as loss, sadness, and self-reliance with a strong Coming-of-Age overtone. The story, told in just nine minutes, follows the struggle of a young boy who is dealing with loss and accepting reality.

Characterized by well-shot underwater scenes, Dope Mister Dee does not lack the touch of mystical realism (as in hallucinations) needed to convey the inner world of the child protagonist. The carefully crafted sound effects and immersive soundtrack work seamlessly together to create a captivating auditory experience. It adds depth and emotion to the narrative, elevating the overall impact of the storytelling. 

Young Carson Severson, who plays the lead role of the distressed teenaged Dizzy, delivers a believable and touching performance that is both nuanced and emotionally resonant, adding depth and authenticity to the overall narrative.

The film is available for free on Vimeo.

The Wolf and the Cat (2023)

In Jean-Sebastien Bernard‘s 2023 short film, titled  The Wolf and the Cat, Loup (Dylan Hawkes) and his mother (Juliet Lemonnier) embark on a summer vacation at a campsite.

Throughout the film, their close bond is disrupted by the various events and happenings closely tied to the maturation and the loss of innocence of the boy — turning the film into a great, if potentially controversial, piece of Coming-of-Age cinema. 

The cinematography of the film is executed with exceptional precision, employing camera focus techniques that effectively capture visually stunning moments, thus accentuating the emotional states of the characters shown on screen.

Certain parts in the film employ close-up shots that focus on seemingly mundane tasks, such as slicing a melon, but that convey underlying meanings and subtle implications. 

It is important to pay attention to the opening scenes since they provide a lot of insight into the characters and help explain the subsequent acts they take as the plot develops. The use of masks to represent the duality in one’s identity is a deft move that adds a touch of ingenuity to the presentation.

Since Loup (the primary character) is a little boy who is deaf, and who communicates his thoughts and feelings through the use of sign language and facial expressions, these aspects of the narrative are stressed more than they would usually be in a movie about a character with normal hearing.

For example in the picture (above), either the acting ability of Dylan Hawkes or Jean-Sebastien Bernard‘s direction (or both), are responsible for the great emotional impact shown by the boy.

In terms of depicting intricate relationships, one can establish connections between The Wolf and the Cat and the French Coming-of-Age movie Murmur of the Heart from 1971, the 1972 film Night Hair Child, Secret World published in 1969, and the more contemporary Bringing Up Bobby from 2011.

Dylan Hawkes
Dylan Hawkes

The Wolf and the Cat presents a straightforward narrative that is yet daring and thought-provoking, unafraid to delve into themes of lost innocence and the accompanying perplexity that might arise during a particular stage of life. 

The visual aesthetics of the narrative and the subtle insinuations interwoven within the storyline have been a source of great enjoyment for me. The amalgamation of these elements, together with the proficient performances and adept direction, renders The Wolf and the Cat a cinematic masterpiece that warrants a resounding endorsement to aficionados of the genre of Coming-of-Age films.

IMDB page

Before I Change My Mind (2022)

In a refreshing and bold exploration of contemporary themes, Trevor Anderson`s 2022 movie with the peculiar title, Before I Change My Mind, weaves together themes of adolescence and the quest for authentic connection. The title is peculiar since it has one meaning to a viewer before seeing the film and a completely different and deeper meaning afterward.

The official synopsis of the film’s narrative featured on its IMDB page reads: “1987: While the other students wonder if new kid Robin is a boy or a girl, Robin forges a complicated bond with the school bully, making increasingly dangerous choices to fit in.” A lovely melodramatic comedy with a strong Coming-of-Age undertone, the film even has a glamorous vibe.  

When it comes to production design, the attention to detail is commendable. Before I Change My Mind effectively transports viewers to the 1980s through various vintage props such as floppy disks, outdated phones, and period-accurate clothing and hairstyles. Additionally, the clever incorporation of VHS and Polaroid montages further enhances the signature style of the era. 

Robin (Vaughan Murrae) and Carter (Dominic Lippa) in Before I Change My Mind (2022)
Robin (Vaughan Murrae) and Carter (Dominic Lippa) in Before I Change My Mind (2022)

The film’s characters, just like the narrative, are dynamic, although they often feel somewhat underdeveloped. Far from being memorable, they are interesting and quirky enough to capture and hold one’s attention – and one could even associate with them occasionally, which is guaranteed to awaken that nostalgic itch. 

bittersweet tension
bittersweet tension

That itch and the bittersweet tension in most scenes make up the viewing experience. Suspense and plot twists are also present, as are stereotypes in characters and plot development. 

There are sufficient Coming-of-Age themes and nuances to justify my film recommendation to fans of the genre. From bullying to youthful sexuality, confusion, peer pressure, and all the nuances of trying to fit in, it’s all there, only this time we have a non-binary character. If you have not read about that in this or some other review or description of the film, you may not even notice. I am well aware that people who identify as non-binary may dislike my observation – but in my book, the fact that one can appreciate the emotional and social challenges of the characters without being overly concerned with their genre is beneficial for the film and the overall watching experience. 

Two Coming-of-Age films emit somewhat similar vibes to those of Before I Change My Mind: Disney’s Better Nate Than Ever and Charles Busch‘s Coming-of-Age drama A Very Serious Person. All three films require an open mind to appreciate their stories, although unlike many other reviewers, I will skip assigning the LGBT label to any of them.

Although youthful sexuality plays a significant role in the film, the narrative is not controversial. Nevertheless, those bigoted individuals who took issue with Lukas Dhont‘s previous film, Close, may also find reasons to dislike this one.

Before I Change My Mind (2022)
In short
Before I Change My Mind weaves together themes of adolescence and the quest for authentic connection In a refreshing and bold exploration of contemporary themes.
Character/Acting
Score/Soundtrack
Cinematography
Storyline/Screenplay
Production
Direction
Reader Rating4 Votes
4.3
Our rating
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