If you loved the coming-of-age genre in The Perks of Being a Wallflower, you’ll definitely want to check out these 13 movies. Each of these films captures the essence of adolescence, self-discovery, and the complexities of growing up. Click here to learn more about The Perks of Being a Wallflower.
1. The Spectacular Now
The Spectacular Now follows the story of Sutter, a high school senior who lives in the moment, and Aimee, a shy, introverted girl. Starring Miles Teller and Shailene Woodley, this film explores the highs and lows of teenage life and the impact of relationships on personal growth.
2. Me and Earl and the Dying Girl
This touching film centers around Greg, a high school senior who spends his time making parodies of classic movies with his friend Earl. When Greg’s mother forces him to befriend a classmate diagnosed with leukemia, his life takes an unexpected turn. Starring Thomas Mann, RJ Cyler, and Olivia Cooke, this movie is a heartfelt exploration of friendship and loss.
3. The Fault in Our Stars
Based on the best-selling novel by John Green, The Fault in Our Stars tells the love story of Hazel and Gus, two teenagers who meet at a cancer support group. Featuring Shailene Woodley and Ansel Elgort, this film beautifully captures the bittersweet nature of young love and the resilience of the human spirit.
4. Paper Towns
Paper Towns follows Quentin, a high school senior who embarks on a road trip with his friends to find Margo, his enigmatic neighbor who has disappeared. Starring Nat Wolff and Cara Delevingne, this film is a journey of self-discovery and the search for true identity.
5. Love, Simon
Love, Simon is a heartwarming story about Simon Spier, a high school student who is grappling with his sexuality and the fear of coming out. With Nick Robinson in the lead role, the film is a poignant exploration of identity, acceptance, and the importance of being true to oneself.
6. The Edge of Seventeen
Starring Hailee Steinfeld, The Edge of Seventeen delves into the life of Nadine, a high school junior who feels out of place in her own world. This film captures the awkwardness and emotional turmoil of adolescence with humor and sincerity.
7. Lady Bird
Lady Bird is a coming-of-age story about Christine “Lady Bird” McPherson, a high school senior with dreams of escaping her mundane life in Sacramento. Starring Saoirse Ronan and Laurie Metcalf, this film is a heartfelt look at the complexities of mother-daughter relationships and the quest for individuality.
8. The Way Way Back
The Way Way Back follows 14-year-old Duncan as he navigates a summer vacation with his mother and her overbearing boyfriend. Starring Liam James, Steve Carell, and Toni Collette, this film is a touching and humorous exploration of finding oneself amidst family dynamics.
9. Adventureland
Set in the summer of 1987, Adventureland tells the story of James, a recent college graduate who takes a job at a local amusement park. Starring Jesse Eisenberg and Kristen Stewart, this film is a nostalgic look at the trials and tribulations of young adulthood.
10. The Kings of Summer
The Kings of Summer follows three teenage friends who decide to build a house in the woods and live off the land for the summer. Starring Nick Robinson, Gabriel Basso, and Moises Arias, this film is a whimsical and heartfelt exploration of friendship and independence.
11. Submarine
Submarine is a quirky coming-of-age film about Oliver Tate, a 15-year-old boy dealing with the trials of teenage life and his parents’ troubled marriage. Starring Craig Roberts and Yasmin Paige, this film is a unique and humorous take on growing up.
12. The Art of Getting By
Starring Freddie Highmore and Emma Roberts, The Art of Getting By tells the story of George, a high school senior who has managed to avoid doing any real work throughout his school years. This film explores the struggles of finding motivation and purpose in life.
13. Stuck in Love
Stuck in Love is a film about a family of writers grappling with love and loss over the course of a year. Starring Greg Kinnear, Jennifer Connelly, and Lily Collins, this movie is a poignant and heartwarming look at the complexities of relationships and the power of forgiveness.
