
The coming-of-age story is a timeless genre -- often poignant, usually powerful, and sometimes funny -- and movies with this theme can be a great way to expose kids to important life lessons. These movies are some of our favorites. They span decades, but each leaves an impact that feels very fresh. Use these films as jumping-off points for talking to kids about the issues explored in the movies.
Musical king-of-the-beasts blockbuster is powerful, scary.
Inspiring drama about a champion speller; OK for tweens.
Tearjerker is one of the best early Disney dramas.
Excellent subtitled Iranian coming-of-age story.
One-of-a-kind high school comedy for the family.
Superb tale of a girl's struggle for her dreams.
Inspiring, intense story of a teacher and his students.
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