Pivotal passages: A look at coming-of-age movies of the past
Every generation, it seems, has its own favorite coming-of-age movies. And though tastes change, as does the definition of “coming of age†— including everyone from preteens to young adults in their 20s — these five films are among the ones that have stood the test of time and inspired generations of filmgoers.
“American Graffiti.†George Lucas’ 1973 ode to cars and cruising set in a small California town in the 1960s. Its cinematic style defined a new kind of American naturalism, and its celebration of youthful aspirations — and dashed dreams — made a lasting impact.
“Dazed and Confused.†Richard Linklater’s 1993 cult favorite is a loose yet insightful portrait of Texas teens finding their way in the 1970s, in a world of football, recreational drugs, mean girls and class differences. It’s a good-natured salute to aimless youth.
“To Kill a Mockingbird.†This 1962 classic directed by Robert Mulligan and based on the Harper Lee novel is an indictment of racism in the South in the 1930s. But its also a tale of how young Scout and Jim learn life lessons from their heroic father, Atticus, played by Gregory Peck.
“Sixteen Candles.†Writer-director John Hughes’ iconic 1980s coming-of-age films were beloved by young audiences and influenced later generations of filmmakers. This 1984 gem starring Hughes favorite Molly Ringwald provided a welcome female perspective on this often male-dominated genre.
“Stand by Me.†Rob Reiner directed this 1986 film based on a story by Stephen King. Combining humor, pathos and horror, it’s often held up as the movie that defines the coming-of-age genre. Though made in the 1980s, it harkens to a more bucolic America of the 1950s.
Only good movies
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