Coming-of-age is perhaps the most alluring subgenre in film because it is so relatable to the stage of life that we millennials, and particularly the kids of the 1990s, are in Netflix.

Stories of children growing into teenagers or teenagers growing into adults, who essentially embody the same essence everywhere, are the genre’s universal appeal, despite cultural and geographic differences. Growing up is a period of discovery and everything seems new. It’s an age of firsts, and the transition is basically what it’s all about: the first kiss, the first relationship, the first heartbreak, the first sexual encounter or discovery, the first sense of responsibility, the first sense of leaving something behind. Fortunately for us, Netflix has a large selection of these movies, which further demonstrates the popularity of the genre. The films are all about growing up, from cult classics to deep dramas to lighthearted teen comedies.

1. Stand by Me (1986)

Rob Reiner’s “Stand by Me,” which is based on Stephen King’s novella “The Body,” follows four children—Gordie, Chris, Teddy, and Vern—as they set out to find a missing child named Ray Browner in 1950s Oregon.

Wil Wheaton, River Phoenix, Corey Feldman, and Jerry O’Connell play these children. Gordie, an adult who remembers the entire series of events, tells the story from her point of view. The children’s experiences dealing with their personal problems and how they treat them are addressed as they search for the boy. “Stand by Me” examines a variety of topics, including internal conflicts, betrayal, bullying, and a misunderstood parent. In the process, it offers viewers a unique coming-of-age film that has achieved cult status. It is available to view here.

2. Enola Holmes (2020)

The charming mystery-adventure movie “Enola Holmes,” which was directed by Harry Bradbeer, presents viewers with the adolescent sister of renowned detective Sherlock Holmes. Millie Bobby Brown excels in the role of Enola, the title character, who sets out to outsmart her well-known brother Sherlock (Henry Cavill) and locate her missing mother (Helena Bonham Carter). The movie combines humor, feminism, and mystery as Enola defies Victorian England’s social mores. A fresh and empowering take on the traditional Holmes universe, “Enola Holmes” appeals to a new generation of detective fans with its dynamic performances, captivating plot, and deft storytelling. The movie is available for viewing here.

3. To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before (2018)

“To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before” is a typical teenage mush, but it’s a very popular one, and if you like it, there’s nothing wrong with being that. The Netflix movie clearly had no intention of receiving a nomination for a film award, and it presents itself as such: largely amusing and harmless. In the movie, a teenage girl secretly writes letters to all the guys she has a crush on, only to find the letters alone. When the letters are posted and every boy she has ever dated confronts her about it, her romantic life is completely upended. The movie is available to view here.

4. The Fundamentals of Caring (2016)

In addition to being a fantastic travel movie that features almost all of the “life-changing” jokes of the subgenre, “The Fundamentals of Caring,” a film that lives up to its title, is based on Jonathan Evison’s 2012 book, “The Revised Fundamentals of Caregiving.” His care is provided by a retired writer named Ben, who is portrayed by the enduringly charming and nearly timeless Paul Rudd. The film’s plot revolves around the two of them going on an unplanned road trip, during which they discover a few things about one another and the basics of caring. years, this is a touching, humorous, and tender experience. The movie is available to view here.

5. The Kissing Booth (2018)

In the second installment of the standard Netflix romantic comedy series, “The Kissing Booth,” a teenage girl is forced to decide between her friend and their agreement that prohibits her from having feelings for each other’s siblings or her crush, with whom she shares a kiss at a kissing booth she sets up during the school carnival. The events as young Elle makes her way through high school romance are predictable and inevitable, as is the conclusion. If you have the right kind of taste, it’s a very passable movie at best. The film is available for viewing here.

6. After We Collided (2020)

The 2014 fictional novel of the same name by Anna Todd served as the inspiration for Roger Kumble’s romantic drama film “After We Collided.” Hardin Scott and Tessa Young, a passionately infatuated couple, decide to split up after their differences seem too great for any sort of reconciliation in the Josephine Langford and Hero Fiennes Tiffin film. But a month later, the latter’s inebriated phone calls result in an unpleasant altercation, and the two eventually have sex. The next morning, their complex relationship is in jeopardy as their old arguments regrettably resurface. You are welcome to view the film here.

7. To All the Boys: Always and Forever (2021)

“To All the Boys: Always and Forever” is a teen romantic comedy film starring Lana Condor, Noah Centineo, Janel Parrish, and Anna Cathcart, and it is based on Jenny Han’s 2017 fictional novel. Lara Jean, who is currently in her senior year and has just returned from her trip to Korea, is the subject of the third installment in the well-liked series. She now has to make a number of difficult decisions because of her complex relationship with Peter. In addition, Lara needs a clear career path in order to deal with her emotional problems and plan for college. The film is available for viewing here.

8. Through My Window (2022)

“Through My Window,” a teen romance film starring Julio Peña, Clara Galle, and Pilar Castro, is based on the same-titled novel by Ariana Godoy. Raquel, a young adult who is deeply in love with his next-door neighbor, is the main character of the film. He has not given up on her and is still secretly keeping a careful watch on her in spite of his family’s repeated warnings. His problems won’t be resolved if he never has the guts to strike up a conversation, but does he have the guts to win her heart and boldly express his feelings? The film is available for viewing here.

9. The Half of It (2020)

“The Half of It,” a coming-of-age teen drama film directed by Alice Wu, focuses on issues such as acceptance and the nature of love. Ellie Chu, a lonely student, makes some quick cash by helping her classmates with their homework in the Leah Lewis and Daniel Diemer film. Paul Munsky—the inarticulate football player who wants to use letters to show his love for his crush, Aster Flores—approaches the straight A-student. Although Ellie is more than willing to assist, she is in a state of perpetual conflict because she also develops feelings for Aster.

10. Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani (2013)

Ayan Mukerji is the director of this must-see coming-of-age drama in Hindi (Bollywood). The film centers on the free-spirited Bunny (Ranbir Kapoor) and his group of friends, which includes the quiet and submissive Naina (Deepika Padukone), as well as the equally frolicsome Aditi (Kalki Koechlin) and Avi (Aditya Roy Kapoor). With themes of family, friendship, love, dreams, and the very dynamic nature of life, the college-going friends’ separation when life calls and eventual reunion at Aditi’s wedding have been masterfully depicted, only to clash. “Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani” is a fantastic film with captivating performances and heartfelt music. It is available for streaming here.

11. Let It Snow (2019)

The Christmas romantic comedy film “Let It Snow,” which was produced by Dylan Clark and Alexa Faigen, is based on the same-titled novel by Maureen Johnson, John Green, and Lauren Myracle. The Luke Snellin-directed film centers on a small town in the Midwest that experiences a snowstorm on Christmas Eve. It just so happens that a number of high school students with plenty of free time come together to connect because of the bad weather. Some of them get closer as a result of the interactions that follow, while others have trouble finding love, and everything changes the morning after Christmas Eve.

12. Tall Girl (2019)

Nzingha Stewart is the director of the teen romantic comedy “Tall Girl,” which stars Paris Berelc, Sabrina Carpenter, Griffin Gluck, and Ava Michelle. As the title implies, the film revolves around Jodi, the tallest high school girl who has endured years of bullying and insecurities. But she falls deeply in love with a handsome foreign exchange student when she first sees her. Jodi, who has spent her entire life trying to avoid attention, eventually finds the confidence to speak up more about herself and discovers that her fears do not limit her in any way.

13. Alex Strangelove (2018)

Now, I just so happened to enjoy this teen comedy. The main character, Alex Truelove, from a delightful twist on the name from which the movie takes its title, is the ideal child, with a stellar academic record, a wonderful girlfriend, and a promising future until he meets a charming gay child and begins to explore his sexuality. It’s a freeing movie that knows what it’s doing but doesn’t take itself too seriously. It is endearing, humorous, and meets all the requirements for being a perfectly watchable teen romantic comedy.

14. Sierra Burgess is a Loser (2018)

It’s safe to say that both of these Netflix original romantic comedy films are in a similar vein, even though this one is a more conventional approach. Due to a case of mistaken identities, Sierra Burgess, who is viewed as a loser in school, is forced to cooperate with the most popular girl in high school in order to win over their crushes. Although I disagree with its polarizing conclusion, which seems to convey the wrong message, this movie did very well for Netflix when it was first released.

15. Dude (2018)

It’s safe to say that both of these Netflix original romantic comedy films are in a similar vein, even though this one is a more conventional approach. Due to a case of mistaken identities, Sierra Burgess, who is viewed as a loser in school, is forced to cooperate with the most popular girl in high school in order to win over their crushes. Although I disagree with its polarizing conclusion, which seems to convey the wrong message, this movie did very well for Netflix when it was first released.

16. Mixtape (2021)

“Mixtape,” a lovely coming-of-age drama directed by Valerie Weiss, depicts how a middle school girl meets her parents via a mixtape. When Beverly Moody (Gemma Brooke Allen) discovers the mixtape cassette among their possessions, she has it fixed after learning that mixtapes frequently conceal a message from the owner of the neighborhood record store. Beverly’s quest to hear the songs and discover whether her parents have left her a message starts there.

17. All Together Now (2020)

Brett Haley’s touching coming-of-age drama “All Together Now” is based on Matthew Quick’s book “Sorta Like a Rock Star.” The movie centers on Amber Appleton, played by the gifted Auli’i Cravalho, a strong and upbeat senior in high school who faces many difficulties, including homelessness. The ensemble cast includes Fred Armisen as Amber’s drama instructor and Carol Burnett as her encouraging mentor. “All Together Now” explores friendship, resiliency, and pursuing one’s dreams while presenting a heartwarming image of a young woman overcoming hardship with poise. The film is a moving and uplifting coming-of-age tale thanks to Haley’s direction and Cravalho’s outstanding performance.

18. Finding ‘Ohana (2021)

The coming-of-age adventure “Finding Ohana” combines the allure of Hawaii with a thrilling search for one’s identity. Against the breathtaking backdrop of Hawaii, director Jude Weng takes us on a journey with a group of children as they discover hidden treasures and family secrets. These young explorers learn the value of friendship, heritage, and self-discovery as they overcome the difficulties of the hunt. “Finding ‘Ohana’ is a delightful and meaningful cinematic journey for audiences of all ages, as it captures the essence of growing up with heart, humor, and a dash of cultural exploration.

19. The Last Summer (2019)

“The Last Summer,” which was directed by William Bindley, weaves together the lives of a diverse group of high school graduates in a colorful mosaic of coming-of-age. During the crucial summer before college, the ensemble cast—which includes K.J. Apa, Maia Mitchell, and Tyler Posey—sets out on a life-changing adventure full of friendship, love, and self-discovery. The movie explores the universal themes of embracing the uncertainties that come with growing up, creating an identity, and navigating change through a tapestry of realistic stories and relatable characters. The liminal space between youth and maturity is characterized by a bittersweet beauty that is vividly depicted in “The Last Summer.”

20. Along For The Ride (2022)

“Along for the Ride,” which is based on Sarah Dessen’s book, follows Auden (Emma Pasarow) as she spends her last summer before college with her estranged father (Dermot Mulroney) and his new wife (Kate Bosworth). Auden’s journey deviates from the conventional coming-of-age story by focusing on rediscovering her inner child rather than growing up. She was brought up in an academic environment and has always been mature and academically focused. Yet, Auden finally makes friends with her peers in the seaside town of Colby, welcoming novel experiences like dancing parties and learning to ride a bike. This marks the beginning of a life-changing summer filled with self-discovery and the delights of adolescence.

21. Boy Erased (2018)

Lucas Hedges plays Jared in “Boy Erased,” a film in which his parents send him to conversion therapy after he confesses his attraction to other young men. The film is loosely based on Garrard Conley’s memoir, but it also incorporates stories from other conversion therapy camps. Jared clearly understands during the terrifying journey that the program is essentially torture. Jared courageously asserts who he really is and fights for a free future when his mother supports him. “Boy Erased,” one of Netflix’s best coming-of-age dramas, is a powerful examination of self-discovery and resiliency that highlights the power of authenticity and the search for one’s own truth.

22. Moxie (2021)

In “Moxie,” Amy Poehler’s directing skills are powerful and leave a lasting impression. This empowering movie takes on high school sexism head-on, addressing everything from demeaning lists to some people’s unbridled privilege. As Vivian, played by Hadley Robinson, she discovers her Gen X mother’s feminist zines and is inspired to start her own underground zine. Working under pseudonyms, Vivian’s publication boldly challenges the sexism that permeates her school and ignites a movement against chauvinism and rape culture. Poehler skillfully tells a gripping story that appeals to audiences, turning “Moxie” into more than just a movie; it’s a celebration of grassroots change and a call to action against social injustices.

23. Hard Feelings (2023)

Growing up was never more perplexing. “Hard Feelings” centers on Paula (Cosima Henman) and Charly (Tobias Schäfer), two best friends and classmates who are going through a strange transformation that enables their genitalia to communicate with them. This transition, which is frequently referred to as puberty, is having a significant negative impact on their mental health since they are beginning to wonder about things they never would have before, including one another. How long must they put up with this? Well, we’re only beginning.

24. Not Friends (2023)

The Thai drama “Not Friends,” which was directed by Atta Hemwadee, is about a group of students who decide to make a short film. Pae (Anthony Buisseret) is in charge of the entire project. He chose to base the movie on a short story written by Joe (Pisitpol Ekaphongpisit), a kind man who passed away in an accident not long ago. As the crew navigates the highs and lows of filming, they come across Joe’s secret, which completely upends their worlds.

25. You Are So Not Invited to My Bat Mitzvah (2023)

Adam Sandler’s daughters, Sadie and Sunny Sandler, make their debut in the Sammi Cohen-directed film “You Are So Not Invited to My Bat Mitzvah.” Alongside his wife, Jackie Sandler, Sandler Sr. also appears in it. The movie centers on best friends Stacy (Sunny Sandler) and Lydia (Samantha Lorraine), who have organized their ideal bat mitzvahs together, and is based on the 2005 book by Fiona Rosenbloom (Amanda Stern’s pen name). But before Lydia has a chance to say anything, Stacy ends their friendship when she witnesses Lydia kissing her crush, Andy (Dylan Hoffman), at a house party. As a result, their friendship is tested, and Stacy’s adolescence reaches a new, emotionally taxing milestone when her parents become involved.

26. Kissufim (2023)

Kibbutz Kissufim is a deliberate community located in Kissufim, Israel’s Negev desert. The film, which is set between the 1973 Arab-Israeli War and the 1978 Camp David Accords peace deal between Israel and Egypt, centers on a group of friends who recently served in the armed forces and are celebrating their freedom, including sexual freedom. But the war and the fear of another one have left an underlying dread. Nechmad, who is praised for skillfully fusing themes of coming of age with the circumstances in Israel at the time, crafts a story that seems like a fantasy due to the way it is filmed as well as the constant reminders of reality.

27. Incoming (2024)

Dave and John Chernin are the directors of the coming-of-age teen comedy “Incoming.” The film focuses on four freshmen (Ramon Reed, Mason Thames, Bardia Seiri, and Raphael Alejandro) who plan to throw a wild party at their first high school event, doubling down on high school fetishes. But they have no idea what they are getting into, or how many different ways it will affect them. “Incoming” is designed for teenagers who require a humorous reality check amid intense emotions, intoxicating substances, and dissociative states.

28. Apollo 10½: A Space Age Childhood (2022)

Is growing up like visiting the moon? Both experiences are overwhelming, unexpected, frightening, thrilling, novel, unknown, surreal, beautiful, and challenging, among other things. Combining these two adventures, director Richard Linklater creates a stunning animated story that is told from the perspective of a child growing up in Houston, Texas, in the 1960s. He is prepared by scientists to visit the moon while remaining silent about it in front of his loved ones after being hired by NASA for a space program. “Apollo 10½: A Space Age Childhood,” which features Milo Coy, Glen Powell, Zachary Levi, and Jack Black as voice actors, retells the first Moon landing story from a fantastical point of view.

29. We Grown Now (2023)

“We Grown Now,” which was directed by Minhal Baig, takes place in the 1990s in the Cabrini-Green housing complex in Chicago, Illinois. The movie depicts how two young children, Eric and Malik, deal with the harsh realities of their neighborhood, which is obviously unprepared for their naivete. Their neighborhood has its tragedies, and they have their dreams. Their ground has its crimes, but they have fun. With race and class at the forefront, “We Grown Now” gives viewers a simplistic perspective on difficult times by demonstrating how the children unintentionally mature in experiences rather than age. “We Grown Now,” which stars Blake Cameron James as Malik and Gian Knight Ramirez as Eric, as well as Lil Rel Howery and S. Epatha Merkerson, is a must-see.

30. 37 Seconds (2019)

The focus of the Japanese drama “37 Seconds,” which was directed by Hikari, is Yuma Takeda, a 23-year-old girl who wants to become a manga artist. She expresses herself despite the fact that her cerebral palsy may appear to be a barrier to others. Yuma’s need for expression depends on her interaction with the outside world and everything it has to offer, but her mother is strict and prevents her from doing so because she thinks it will hurt her. Mei Kayama’s portrayal of Yuma Takeda in “37 Seconds,” a coming-of-age drama, is stunning and poignant. It tells the story of how the quest for self-discovery transcends disability.