Here Are the Best Coming-of-Age Films of the 21st Century According to Fans
Growing up is a universal journey, and movies have a unique way of capturing its highs and lows. From awkward teenage moments to profound self-discovery, coming-of-age films resonate with us by reflecting the messy, beautiful process of finding ourselves.
We’ve gathered a list of the top 16 coming-of-age films of the 21st century, as voted by NYT readers. These stories span cultures, genres, and emotions, each offering a fresh take on what it means to grow up. Let’s dive into the films that made the cut, starting from the bottom of the list.
16. The Holdovers (2023)
In ‘The Holdovers’ (2023), a grumpy history teacher, a rebellious student, and a grieving cook are stuck together at a New England boarding school over the Christmas break. Their unlikely bond unfolds with humor and heart, showing how connection can heal even the toughest moments.
Director Alexander Payne crafts a story that feels both nostalgic and timeless, with standout performances from Paul Giamatti, Dominic Sessa, and Da’Vine Joy Randolph. The snowy setting and sharp dialogue make this a warm, bittersweet tale of growth and understanding.
15. Mean Girls (2004)
‘Mean Girls’ (2004) is a sharp comedy about high school cliques and the chaos of fitting in. Cady, a teen navigating a new school, gets swept into the world of the Plastics, a group of popular girls, only to learn the cost of betrayal and conformity.
Written by Tina Fey and directed by Mark Waters, the film’s witty script and iconic lines, delivered by Lindsay Lohan and Rachel McAdams, have made it a cultural staple. It’s a fun yet biting look at teenage social dynamics that still feels fresh.
14. Boyhood (2014)
‘Boyhood’ (2014) follows Mason from age six to eighteen, filmed over 12 years to capture real-time growth. Director Richard Linklater’s ambitious project shows the quiet moments and big changes that shape a young life, from family struggles to personal dreams.
Ellar Coltrane’s performance, alongside Patricia Arquette and Ethan Hawke, feels raw and authentic. The film’s grounded storytelling and innovative approach make it a powerful reflection on how time molds us.
13. The Tree of Life (2011)
‘The Tree of Life’ (2011) is a poetic exploration of childhood, family, and existence itself. Through the eyes of a young boy in 1950s Texas, director Terrence Malick weaves a meditative story that blends personal memories with cosmic questions.
Brad Pitt and Jessica Chastain anchor the film as complex parents, while Sean Penn appears as the adult son reflecting on his past. Its bold visuals and emotional depth make it a unique coming-of-age journey.
12. The Florida Project (2017)
‘The Florida Project’ (2017) follows Moonee, a six-year-old girl living in a rundown motel near Disney World, as she finds joy in a tough world. Director Sean Baker captures her wild, carefree spirit against the backdrop of poverty and struggle.
Willem Dafoe’s compassionate performance as the motel manager complements newcomer Brooklynn Prince’s vibrant energy. The film’s vivid colors and raw honesty highlight the resilience of childhood in challenging circumstances.
11. Yi Yi (2000)
‘Yi Yi’ (2000) is a Taiwanese drama that follows a Taipei family through life’s joys and sorrows. Director Edward Yang explores growing up across generations, from a curious boy to a lovesick teen, all while grappling with adult regrets.
The film’s quiet pacing and rich characters, led by Wu Nien-jen and Elaine Jin, create a deeply human story. Its universal themes of family and self-discovery make it a timeless gem.
10. Little Women (2019)
‘Little Women’ (2019), directed by Greta Gerwig, reimagines Louisa May Alcott’s classic novel about the March sisters’ journeys into adulthood. Each sister—Jo, Meg, Amy, and Beth—faces love, ambition, and loss in Civil War-era America.
Saoirse Ronan, Emma Watson, Florence Pugh, and Eliza Scanlen shine in a vibrant, heartfelt adaptation. Gerwig’s fresh take on the story emphasizes independence and sisterhood, making it resonate with modern audiences.
9. Y tu mamá también (2001)
‘Y tu mamá también’ (2001) is a Mexican road-trip drama about two teenage boys and an older woman exploring life, love, and freedom. Director Alfonso Cuarón blends humor, sensuality, and tragedy to show how fleeting youth can be.
Gael García Bernal, Diego Luna, and Maribel Verdú deliver raw, magnetic performances. The film’s bold storytelling and cultural backdrop make it a striking coming-of-age tale.
8. Superbad (2007)
‘Superbad’ (2007) is a hilarious take on high school friendship, following two awkward teens chasing a wild night before graduation. Director Greg Mottola captures the chaos of teenage hormones and the fear of growing apart.
Jonah Hill, Michael Cera, and Christopher Mintz-Plasse bring laugh-out-loud chemistry, while Seth Rogen and Bill Hader add to the fun. It’s a raunchy yet heartfelt ode to youth and loyalty.
7. Little Miss Sunshine (2006)
‘Little Miss Sunshine’ (2006) follows a quirky family on a road trip to get their young daughter to a beauty pageant. Directors Jonathan Dayton and Valerie Faris craft a comedy-drama about dreams, failure, and family bonds.
The ensemble cast, including Abigail Breslin, Toni Collette, and Steve Carell, shines with warmth and humor. The film’s mix of absurdity and heart makes it a beloved coming-of-age story.
6. Call Me by Your Name (2017)
‘Call Me by Your Name’ (2017) is a tender romance about Elio, a teenager discovering love and identity in 1980s Italy. Director Luca Guadagnino creates a sun-soaked story of first love between Elio and an older student, Oliver.
Timothée Chalamet and Armie Hammer deliver raw, emotional performances. The film’s lush visuals and honest portrayal of longing make it a standout exploration of youth and desire.
5. Lady Bird (2017)
‘Lady Bird’ (2017), directed by Greta Gerwig, follows a rebellious teen navigating her final year of high school in Sacramento. Christine, or ‘Lady Bird,’ clashes with her mom while chasing dreams of independence and college.
Saoirse Ronan and Laurie Metcalf give powerful, nuanced performances as daughter and mother. The film’s sharp humor and relatable struggles make it a fresh, heartfelt coming-of-age classic.
4. Aftersun (2022)
‘Aftersun’ (2022) is a quiet, haunting story about a young girl, Sophie, and her father on a 1990s vacation. Director Charlotte Wells uses subtle storytelling to explore memory, love, and unspoken struggles through a child’s eyes.
Paul Mescal and Frankie Corio share a tender, authentic bond. The film’s delicate pacing and emotional weight make it a deeply moving reflection on growing up.
3. Moonlight (2016)
‘Moonlight’ (2016) traces the life of Chiron, a Black boy in Miami, across three stages of life—childhood, adolescence, and adulthood. Director Barry Jenkins crafts a powerful story of identity, love, and survival in a tough world.
Mahershala Ali, Trevante Rhodes, and Ashton Sanders portray Chiron’s journey with raw intensity. The film’s bold visuals and emotional honesty make it a landmark coming-of-age tale.
2. Everything Everywhere All at Once (2022)
‘Everything Everywhere All at Once’ (2022) is a wild, genre-bending story about a mother and daughter navigating family, identity, and alternate universes. Directors Daniel Kwan and Daniel Scheinert blend absurd humor with deep emotional stakes.
Michelle Yeoh and Stephanie Hsu deliver standout performances in a chaotic yet heartfelt tale. The film’s creative storytelling and themes of self-acceptance make it a unique coming-of-age epic.
1. Spirited Away (2001)
‘Spirited Away’ (2001), directed by Hayao Miyazaki, follows Chihiro, a young girl trapped in a magical spirit world, as she works to save her parents. This Studio Ghibli masterpiece blends stunning animation with a story of courage and growth.
The film’s rich world and Chihiro’s transformation from timid to brave resonate across cultures. Its timeless magic and emotional depth make it a top pick for coming-of-age fans.
Which coming-of-age film speaks to you most, or is there another gem we missed? Drop your thoughts in the comments!