These are five of the best coming of age movies, to help you prepare for the long anticipated film adaptation of “Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret”.
Eighth Grade (2018)
Looking for a movie that’ll take you right back to those cringe-worthy teenage years? Look no further than “Eighth Grade,” the directorial debut of comedian Bo Burnham. Follow 13-year-old Kayla as she struggles to fit in and make it through her final week of middle school. Kayla deals with all the anxiety and social awkwardness that come with being a teenager, but she finds a way to cope by creating self-help videos that give her the confidence to face her fears head-on. The movie is based on Burnham’s own experiences with anxiety. Plus, if you’re a fan of “Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret,” you’ll see some similarities in the themes of both stories – think identity, self-discovery, and trying to fit in. They both feature young girls dealing with the complexities of adolescence and trying to figure out their place in the world. These universal themes make both movies relatable and enjoyable for viewers of all ages.
Stand By Me (1986)
If you are searching for a timeless coming-of-age movie that encapsulates the trials and tribulations of adolescence, look no further than “Stand By Me.” Based on a novella by Stephen King, the movie tells the story of Gordie and his friends as they embark on a mission to locate a missing boy’s body. Through their journey, the characters encounter a myriad of adolescent struggles, including conflicts with friends, familial issues, and the ever-present reminder of mortality. The film delves into the themes of identity and self-discovery, which are universally relatable. Fans of “Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret” will find similarities between the two movies, as both stories explore the themes of friendship, loss, and mortality amidst the backdrop of adolescence. Ultimately, the film captures the experiences of growing up and the significance of interpersonal relationships during their journey.
The Edge of Seventeen (2016)
If you’re seeking a coming-of-age movie that captures the trials and tribulations of transitioning from adolescence to adulthood, then “The Edge of Seventeen” is a must-see. Directed by Kelly Fremon Craig in 2016, this film offers an introspective portrayal of the challenges of adolescence, while also exploring themes of identity, friendship, and heartache. The story follows Nadine and Krista, two teenage girls who experience a falling out after Krista starts dating Nadine’s brother. Nadine is left struggling to find her place in the world and grappling with feelings of isolation.
The similarities between “The Edge of Seventeen” and “Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret” lie in their candid depictions of the growing pains that come with adolescence. Both movies authentically explore the universal themes of love, friendship, and loss that define the coming-of-age experience. These stories are relatable and resonate with viewers of all ages who have experienced the bittersweet journey of growing up. They also share a director!
To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before (2018)
“To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before” is a movie on Netflix from 2018. It’s about a high school student named Lara Jean who writes love letters to her crushes but never plans to send them. When the letters accidentally get sent, Lara Jean’s life changes as she tries to figure out her romantic relationships.
Both “To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before” and “Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret” explore the challenges of teenage love and relationships. Both stories show the worries and doubts that come with dealing with romantic feelings during adolescence, as the main characters navigate crushes and their own emotions. Both stories also deal with the themes of self-discovery and finding one’s true identity, as the characters face the pressures of family and society.
Lady Bird (2017)
“Lady Bird” is a movie from 2017 by Greta Gerwig. It’s about a high school senior named Christine, who everyone calls Lady Bird. She wants to go to college on the east coast and leave her hometown of Sacramento. As she finishes up her last year of high school, Lady Bird struggles with family, relationships, and figuring out who she really is.
Both “Lady Bird” and “Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret” explore the challenges of growing up and themes of self-discovery and identity. Both stories are about young women who are trying to figure out who they are and where they fit in. They also deal with family relationships, acceptance, and fitting in. These are important themes that many people can relate to, no matter their age.
These were five of the best coming of age movies to watch in the wake of “Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret”. What is your favourite coming of age movie? Let us know in the comments below.