63 Coming-of-Age Movies About High School and College
62 titles
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BooksmartMovie · 2019 · 102m · ComedyOn the night before graduating high school, two top academic students have a realization: they've spent too much time studying and not enough time having fun. Resolved to make up for lost time and avoid feeling behind, the girls embark on a plan to experience four years' worth of enjoyment in a single night.IMDb 7.1TMDB 7.0 - 2
Mean GirlsMovie · 2004 · 97m · Drama, ComedyCady Heron quickly gains popularity with the popular "Plastics" clique at her new high school. However, her life changes when she develops feelings for Aaron Samuels, who is also the ex-boyfriend of the Plastics' leader, Regina George.IMDb 7.1TMDB 7.2 - 3
Pretty in PinkMovie · 1986 · 97m · Romance, DramaA teenage romantic drama about high school cliques and first loves, blending elements of "Sixteen Candles" and "Pretty in Pink." Andie, an introverted girl, finds comfort with her unusual friends: her older boss at the record store and a classmate who secretly likes her. When she unexpectedly attracts the attention of Blane, a popular student, Andie explores the difficulties of crossing social lines and embracing a new romance. The film gently examines themes of finding yourself, being accepted, and the struggles of building relationships in a society with clear divisions.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.7 - 4
Legally BlondeMovie · 2001 · 96m · Comedy, RomanceElle Woods is the perfect sorority girl, but her dream is to marry Warner Huntington III. He breaks up with her to attend Harvard Law School. Determined to win him back, Elle follows him there and discovers a strength and intelligence she never knew she possessed.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.8 - 5
CluelessMovie · 1995 · 97m · Comedy, RomanceCher is a popular, wealthy high school student in Beverly Hills who enjoys manipulating the social lives of her teachers. When she tries to makeover the new, unpolished student Tai, she unexpectedly finds her own world changing.
As Tai gains popularity, Cher questions her own friendships and relationships. She reflects on past criticisms from her ex-stepbrother about her self-centeredness. Amidst the superficiality of her life, Cher discovers that genuine happiness comes from real connections, not from status or possessions.
This comedy explores themes of vanity and personal growth, prompting viewers to consider the value of empathy and transformation in a society that often prioritizes appearances.IMDb 6.9TMDB 7.3 - 6
Not Another Teen MovieMovie · 2001 · 89m · ComedyDriven by a dare, a star football player at John Hughes High decides to transform an unassuming, studious girl into a prom queen. This is a humorous take on classic teen movies from the 1980s and 1990s.IMDb 5.8TMDB 5.8 - 7
Pitch Perfect 2Movie · 2015 · 115m · Comedy, MusicThe Bellas are back and determined to reclaim their place. After a public setback involving the President, the team is removed from the national competition. To restore their reputation, they must achieve an unprecedented feat: winning an international aca-singing championship. The Bellas will need to strengthen their unity and showcase their talent to succeed. With new allies and familiar rivals joining them, the team hopes to make their dreams a reality.IMDb 6.4TMDB 6.8 - 8
Risky BusinessMovie · 1983 · 98m · Romance, Comedy, DramaJoel Goodson is a high school senior who seems to have it all together – good grades, busy with activities, and always responsible. When his parents go on vacation, he’s left with the house and their Porsche, and his carefully constructed sense of responsibility begins to crumble.
He enjoys newfound freedom with friends, but a minor accident with the Porsche leaves him short on money for repairs. He decides to take a risk and start a business to earn the funds, pushing himself beyond his comfort zone.
Joel’s experience becomes a story about growing up and questioning societal expectations. The film balances humor with moments of self-reflection, showing one young man's journey toward independence.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.6 - 9
EuroTripMovie · 2004 · 92m · ComedyScott discovers his online friend from Berlin is a beautiful young woman. He and his friends then travel throughout Europe.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.6 - 10
Ghost WorldMovie · 2001 · 111m · Comedy, DramaTwo unconventional, skeptical teenagers grapple with their futures after graduating high school. Following a prank on an odd, middle-aged record collector, one of them develops a friendship with him, creating tension between the two girls.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.1 - 11
Donnie DarkoMovie · 2001 · 114m · Fantasy, Drama, MysteryFollowing a close call in a strange accident, a troubled teenager begins experiencing vivid visions of a giant rabbit. The rabbit seems to control him, leading him to commit a series of crimes.IMDb 8.0TMDB 7.8 - 12
Love & BasketballMovie · 2000 · 125m · Comedy, Drama, RomanceMonica Wright and Quincy McCall have known each other their whole lives, growing up in the same neighborhood. They fall in love as they become adults, sharing a deep passion for basketball. As Quincy and Monica navigate their relationship, they pursue separate paths in high school and college basketball, both hoping to achieve professional stardom.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.3 - 13
Me and Earl and the Dying GirlMovie · 2015 · 105m · Drama, ComedyGreg is drifting through his senior year, deliberately staying out of the spotlight and only connecting with his best friend, Earl, through their odd filmmaking projects. This carefully constructed quiet life is disrupted when his mother insists he befriend a classmate who has leukemia.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.5 - 14
Everybody Wants Some!!Movie · 2016 · 117m · ComedyThis comedy centers on a group of friends learning to handle the joys and challenges of being truly independent.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.4 - 15
The Princess DiariesMovie · 2001 · 115m · Comedy, Family, RomanceFifteen-year-old Anaïs, a smart but socially awkward girl living with her mother in San Francisco, learns a startling truth: her father, who she thought was dead, was actually the crown prince of Genovia. With his passing, she is now the country's rightful heir. Torn between her ordinary life and the responsibility of becoming a princess, Anaïs must decide whether to embrace her destiny or remain in San Francisco.IMDb 6.4TMDB 7.0 - 16
Mean Girls 2Movie · 2011 · 96m · ComedySenior Jo tries to avoid the usual high school drama, but she can't ignore when she witnesses the popular Mandi and her followers bullying the shy Abby. Jo unexpectedly sides with Abby, sparking a hilarious and intense battle for social dominance that shakes up the entire school.IMDb 4.1TMDB 5.3 - 17
Jennifer's BodyMovie · 2009 · 107m · Horror, ComedyJennifer, a beautiful and alluring cheerleader, unleashes a terrifying evil when she is possessed by a malevolent demon. Her best friend must now race against time to halt Jennifer's destructive actions.IMDb 5.6TMDB 6.0 - 18
The Perks of Being a WallflowerMovie · 2012 · 103m · DramaIn Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 1991, shy freshman Charlie observes life from a distance. His world changes when two seniors, Sam and her stepbrother Patrick, take him under their wing. They guide him toward friendship, music, and the experience of first love.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.8 - 19
JunoMovie · 2007 · 96m · Comedy, Drama, RomanceWhen a teenage girl, Juno MacGuff, unexpectedly becomes pregnant at sixteen, she decides on an unconventional path for her baby.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.1 - 20
Fast Times at Ridgemont HighMovie · 1982 · 90m · Comedy, RomanceFast Times is set in a bright Southern California high school and draws on real-life stories by Cameron Crowe. The film follows Stacy Hamilton and Mark Ratner as they experience the ups and downs of first love, with advice from older students: Linda Barrett for Stacy and Mike Damone for Mark. A key part of the story involves Jeff Spicoli, a laid-back surfer who frequently uses marijuana. His clashes with the strict Mr. Hand, who believes his students are constantly high, form a major element of the film.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.8 - 21
HairsprayMovie · 2007 · 117m · Comedy, Romance, DramaTracy Turnblad, a cheerful teenager, auditions for the popular dance program, "The Corny Collins Show," and gets a coveted spot. Using her newfound popularity, she's driven to fight for equality, aiming to help her friends and dismantle the show's segregation policies.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.7 - 22
Some Kind of WonderfulMovie · 1987 · 95m · Romance, ComedyWatts is a spirited teenager who prefers sports and her male friends to typical teenage concerns like fashion or dating. Her world shifts when her best friend Keith starts dating the school's most popular girl, prompting Watts to question her own feelings for him. The film explores the complexities of friendship and first love as Watts navigates confusing emotions and struggles to define the boundaries between the two. It’s a relatable story about the joys and challenges of adolescence, told with honesty and sensitivity.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.9 - 23
SuperbadMovie · 2007 · 113m · ComedyTwo deeply reliant high school seniors struggle with the emotional fallout after their attempt to throw a party with alcohol goes wrong. They find themselves grappling with intense separation anxiety as their carefully laid plans fall apart.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.3 - 24
BullyMovie · 2011 · 92m · Documentary, DramaEach year, more than 5 million American children experience bullying – at school, online, on the bus, at home, through their cell phones, and in their communities. This film, *The Bully Project*, explores how bullying affects us all, whether as victims, those who bully, or bystanders. It argues that the world we experience as adults is shaped by childhood experiences. The film begins on the first day of school, a day filled with anxiety for the millions of children who will be bullied in the United States this year. As school buses carry students across the country, *The Bully Project* offers a look into the challenges and uncertainties of growing up.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.2 - 25
The DUFFMovie · 2015 · 100m · Romance, ComedyBianca's life changes when she discovers her high school classmates call her a "DUFF"—Designated Ugly Fat Friend. Determined to shed this label, she teams up with a friendly athlete and her supportive teacher. Together, they confront the school's popular bully and aim to show everyone that everyone has someone who sees them as a "DUFF"—and that's perfectly okay.IMDb 6.4TMDB 6.8 - 26
Pass the LightMovie · 2015 · 112m*Pass the Light* follows Steve Bellafiore, a 17-year-old high school senior who runs for Congress to defend his deeply held religious beliefs.IMDb 4.6TMDB 6.4 - 27
ChronicleMovie · 2012 · 84m · Science Fiction, Drama, ThrillerThree high school students stumble upon a remarkable discovery that awakens strange, uncontrollable powers within them. As they struggle to master these abilities and exploit them, their lives become increasingly chaotic, and their inner darkness begins to emerge.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.8 - 28
BrickMovie · 2006 · 110m · Drama, MysteryA solitary teenager infiltrates a high school criminal organization to uncover the truth behind his ex-girlfriend's vanishing.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.8 - 29
Bring It OnMovie · 2000 · 99m · ComedyThe Rancho Carne High School Toro cheerleading squad in San Diego is known for their energy and award-winning routines – they're aiming for their sixth national championship in a row. However, when Torrance, the newly elected captain, uncovers a secret, their path to victory becomes complicated. She discovers that their championship routines were not original, but stolen.IMDb 6.2TMDB 6.3 - 30
American PieMovie · 1999 · 95m · Comedy, RomanceFour high school students navigate the ups and downs of teenage life, exploring friendship, romance, and sexuality as they approach graduation. Discovering they are all virgins, they make a pact to lose their virginity before prom. Each friend faces personal challenges in their pursuit of love or overcoming fears.
The film blends humor and heartfelt moments to examine themes of trust, personal growth, and the unexpected paths to happiness. Through their experiences, they learn that relationships are more important than achieving milestones. It's a reminder that connection with others often matters more than any accomplishment.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.6 - 31
AfterMovie · 2019 · 106m · Drama, RomanceTessa Young is a diligent student, a caring daughter, and devoted to her boyfriend of years. When she starts college, Tessa's sheltered life changes when she encounters Hardin Scott, a captivating but troubled young man. He challenges everything Tessa believes about herself and what she desires.IMDb 5.3TMDB 7.1 - 32
Can't Hardly WaitMovie · 1998 · 100m · Comedy, RomanceHuntington Hills High School's graduation day is set for an unforgettable party. Students prepare for the ultimate celebration after donning their caps and gowns. The typically shy students transform into confident socialites, while the athletes face surprising embarrassment. Long-held crushes among the freshmen develop into real relationships, signaling the end of high school and the start of something new. This comedy captures the humorous and heartwarming experiences of young adulthood during graduation, showcasing the energy and spirit of this milestone.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.2 - 33
High StrungMovie · 2016 · 96m · Music, Romance, DramaA hip hop violinist performing in the New York City subway meets a classical dancer on a scholarship at the Manhattan Conservatory. They connect, and with the support of a hip hop dance group, they work to find shared artistic ground while preparing for a competition that could be life-changing.IMDb 6.3TMDB 7.0 - 34
High School MusicalMovie · 2006 · 98m · Comedy, Drama, FamilyA popular athlete and a bright academic student land parts in the school play, sparking a friendship that challenges the established social hierarchy at East High.IMDb 5.7TMDB 6.5 - 35
Road TripMovie · 2000 · 93m · Comedy, AdventureAn Ithaca College student films a one-night stand with a sorority girl. He then learns a friend mistakenly mailed the resulting homemade sex tape to his girlfriend in Austin. Desperate to prevent the tape from reaching its destination, he borrows a car and embarks on a frantic road trip to intercept it.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.2 - 36
American GraffitiMovie · 1973 · 110m · Comedy, DramaThe film follows two friends on their final night of freedom before starting university. High school graduates, filled with a sense of adventure and nostalgia, they want to savor their last moments together. They revisit the familiar strip where they've spent many nights with friends, sharing laughter and memories. One last time, they cruise along this route with their close group, cherishing each moment aware of the changes ahead as they prepare to go their separate ways for college. The movie explores friendship, transition, and the poignant feeling of endings as these young adults begin a new phase of life.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.0 - 37
The Spectacular NowMovie · 2013 · 95m · Comedy, Drama, RomanceSutter, a social butterfly, unexpectedly encounters the reserved Aimee after waking up on someone's lawn. As Sutter navigates personal challenges and Aimee considers her post-graduation plans, an unforeseen romance develops between them.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.7 - 38
Dead Poets SocietyMovie · 1989 · 129m · DramaThis new series offers young viewers more than just entertainment. It combines music, movement, and interactive learning to help children develop cognitively and improve their social skills. Featuring a friendly Bear and other lovable characters, the show introduces important ideas like cooperation, teamwork, and exploration in an enjoyable way. By using sound, visuals, and activities, the series helps children learn and grow in many different ways.IMDb 8.1TMDB 8.3 - 39
Pitch Perfect 3Movie · 2017 · 93m · Comedy, MusicFollowing their world championship victory, the Bellas face disbandment and struggle to find opportunities performing together. However, a USO tour abroad offers them a chance to reunite. This close-knit group will make music and navigate some unconventional situations together for one final performance.IMDb 5.8TMDB 6.5 - 40
High School Musical 2Movie · 2007 · 111m · Comedy, Drama, FamilyThe East High Wildcats get exciting summer jobs at the Lava Springs Country Club, owned by Sharpay and Ryan's family. Sharpay has one goal: win Troy over. As Troy experiences a life of luxury he's never known, will he choose privilege over his friends and girlfriend, Gabriella?IMDb 5.3TMDB 6.5 - 41
American Pie Presents: Band CampMovie · 2005 · 94m · ComedyEveryone has moved on, except for Sherman and Jim Levenstein’s understanding father. Little Matt Stiffler wants to join his older brother Steve's business. After hearing about it from Jim's wife, a band-geek, he plans to return to band camp and make a video of his own.IMDb 5.0TMDB 5.5 - 42
Better Luck TomorrowMovie · 2002 · 101m · Crime, Drama, RomanceA group of high-achieving Asian-American seniors become emboldened by a sense of control as they become involved in illegal activities outside of school.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.3 - 43
The Edge of SeventeenMovie · 2016 · 105m · Comedy, DramaBest friends in high school, two girls' lives become complicated when one begins dating the other's older brother – a guy who has always been at odds with his sister.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.2 - 44
American Pie 2Movie · 2001 · 111m · Comedy, RomanceA year after drifting apart, a group of friends rents a beach house with the intention of having an unforgettable summer. Their plans are complicated by the presence of the girls in their lives. Packed with lively parties, surprising secrets, and even a visit to band camp, they realize that everyone is evolving. Ultimately, the summer tests their friendships and reveals the importance of staying connected.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.2 - 45
HeathersMovie · 1988 · 103m · Comedy, CrimeA teenage girl's desperate attempt to gain acceptance from popular classmates leads her to a dangerous friendship with a rebellious outsider. He reveals a way to disrupt the school's social order through extreme actions targeting the most popular students. As she becomes more involved in this escalating game, she grapples with the repercussions of her choices and questions the difference between ambition and cruelty. This realistic drama explores the difficult realities of adolescence and the darker aspects of social pressures and friendships.IMDb 7.1TMDB 7.3 - 46
FameMovie · 1980 · 133m · Drama, MusicIn a near-future, a chilling mystery unfolds as the elderly Bernard Quatermass investigates his granddaughter's disappearance and the rise of a strange cult. He navigates a confusing world of secrets and lies, uncovering disturbing truths that blend science fiction with real danger. The film masterfully combines suspense, drama, and mystery as Quatermass searches for his granddaughter and tries to understand the cult's hidden motives. The story explores themes of aging, family, and the battle against evil, creating a gripping and suspenseful cinematic experience.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.4 - 47
Rebel Without a CauseMovie · 1955 · 111m · DramaMoving to Santa Clarita, troubled teenager Jim Stark seeks a fresh start. Adjusting to a new school and life, he befriends Plato, a classmate dealing with emotional problems, and develops a relationship with local girl Judy. Their romance is complicated by Judy's connection to Buzz, the neighborhood's tough guy. Conflict escalates between Jim and Buzz after a violent incident leads to a dangerous drag race, endangering both their lives.
As Jim tries to build new relationships and escape his past, he faces the realities of adapting to a new environment. This story explores friendship, love, and growing up, set against a backdrop of teenage rebellion and danger.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.5 - 48
The Riot ClubMovie · 2014 · 107m · DramaTwo freshman at Oxford University become members of an exclusive secret society and discover that their futures are at stake during a single night.IMDb 6.0TMDB 5.9 - 49
Dazed and ConfusedMovie · 1993 · 102m · Comedy, DramaSummer 1976. A group of Texas high school seniors face their last day of classes and the start of something new. The story centers on Randall Floyd, a talented athlete popular with different groups of students. As graduation approaches, Floyd struggles to reconcile his love for football with his use of recreational drugs when his coach requires him to sign a promise to stay clean. This coming-of-age story explores the bonds of friendship and the challenges of finding oneself when the world is changing.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.3 - 50
17 AgainMovie · 2009 · 102m · Comedy, Fantasy, DramaFeeling lost at 30, Mike O'Donnell dreams of a second chance. He unexpectedly gets one when he wakes up as his 17-year-old self. Now with an adult mind in a teenage body, Mike can change past choices. But he begins to question if those choices were really mistakes.IMDb 6.4TMDB 6.3 - 51
LOL (Laughing Out Loud)Movie · 2009 · 103m · ComedyLola is a beautiful teenager eager for the freedom and sexual experiences of adulthood, but her mother keeps her from it.IMDb 6.3TMDB 6.5 - 52
Pitch PerfectMovie · 2012 · 112m · Comedy, Music, RomanceBeca, a college student who resists fitting in, is surrounded by a diverse group of women when she starts school. These women, ranging from popular to quirky, discover a shared passion for singing. Beca challenges them to break from conventional arrangements and explore innovative harmonies as they compete for success in college music competitions.IMDb 7.1TMDB 7.3 - 53
The First TimeMovie · 2012 · 95m · Drama, Comedy, RomanceTwo teenagers from different high schools unexpectedly connect at a party, and a growing attraction develops between them.IMDb 6.8TMDB 7.0 - 54
Easy AMovie · 2010 · 93m · ComedyOlive, an unremarkable high school student, unexpectedly gains attention when she starts manipulating school gossip to improve her popularity. This backfires as her classmates turn hostile and the school board expresses concern – even her favorite teacher and guidance counselor are worried. With the help of her quirky parents and a longtime crush, Olive tries to control her fabricated image and stop the rumors.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.8 - 55
Better Off Dead...Movie · 1985 · 97m · Comedy, RomanceLane Meyer, a thoughtful high schooler, experiences a severe decline into suicidal depression after his girlfriend ends their relationship to be with popular skier Roy Stalin. While dealing with this emotional crisis, Lane also faces typical teenage issues: his eccentric family, a persistent paperboy, and a bothersome neighbor whose mother hosts a friendly French exchange student named Monique. As he confronts these situations, Lane slowly begins to find ways to heal, grow, and form surprising connections within the ups and downs of adolescence.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.6 - 56
Revenge of the NerdsMovie · 1984 · 90m · ComedyAt Adams College, the Alpha Beta fraternity holds all the power. A group of students who don't fit in with any of the existing groups decide to start their own fraternity to protect their friends. This action unexpectedly sparks a fierce rivalry with the Alpha Betas. This comedy follows these outcasts as they try to challenge the established social order and find acceptance in college life. The film explores friendship, self-discovery, and the struggle to belong.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.5 - 57
ElectionMovie · 1999 · 103m · Comedy, DramaThis drama follows Tracy Flick, a high school student who appears destined to win the student election. Her path to victory is disrupted when Jim McAllister, a teacher with his own reasons, intervenes.
Jim, feeling a complicated mix of feelings toward Tracy, encourages Paul Metzler, a popular football player, to run for president. This creates a fierce competition, forcing Tracy to confront unexpected challenges and reconsider her own ambition.
The film examines power, teenage desire, and how adults influence young people. As tensions build between Tracy and Paul, it presents a compelling look at high school politics, balancing humor with emotional depth.
The story also explores Jim McAllister's personal struggles and motivations, adding complexity to the narrative. Through these characters, the movie examines ambition, honesty, and the lengths people will go to achieve their aims.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.9 - 58
Say Anything...Movie · 1989 · 100m · Romance, Comedy, DramaLloyd, an optimistic high school student, tries to win the affection of Diane, a quiet and brilliant classmate. Surprisingly, Diane returns his feelings, and they begin a romance. But Diane's father, who is divorced, strongly disapproves and tries to control her life. Lloyd and Diane must overcome their father's opposition to see if their love can endure.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.0 - 59
GreaseMovie · 1978 · 110m · Romance, ComedySet in the lively 1950s, this story follows Sandy, a kind Australian girl, who falls for Danny, a rebellious greaser. Their summer romance appears doomed when they face separate high schools. But fate brings them back together when they unexpectedly enroll in the same one.
Reuniting isn't easy as they navigate teenage social circles and deal with their unique friends. Sandy and Danny learn about growing up, accepting who they are, and realizing true love goes beyond what others expect.
Through laughter, sadness, and joy, they try to recapture their summer magic while facing the challenges of adolescence. With memorable characters and a timeless love story, this film captures the heart of young love for audiences of all ages.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.4 - 60
High School Musical 3: Senior YearMovie · 2008 · 117m · Comedy, Romance, DramaHigh school seniors Troy and Gabriella grapple with the prospect of college separating them. To confront their feelings about the future – their hopes and anxieties – they and their fellow Wildcats organize a spring musical.IMDb 5.1TMDB 6.5 - 61
The Princess Diaries 2: Royal EngagementMovie · 2004 · 113m · Comedy, Drama, FamilyMia Thermopolis, recently graduated college, travels to Genovia to begin her duties as princess. With her friend Lilly, Mia continues learning the traditions of royalty, including riding and archery. Her life becomes more complicated when she's unexpectedly named queen, and also meets a captivating new man.IMDb 5.9TMDB 6.7 - 62
Project XMovie · 2012 · 88m · ComedyThree high school seniors host a party hoping to gain notoriety. The night escalates quickly as news of the event spreads.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.9
