Best Teen Films of All Time
Growing up... without
a doubt, the bumpiest ride of our lives! Arguably, the most confusing and
baffling period of our life that we all, unfortunately, have to endure.
However, each one of us waited in anticipation to finally become an adult,
unaware of the obstacles that we will have to face along the way. The teenage
years are best described as an emotional rollercoaster, not only for girls, but
for boys too. Therefore, what makes a good ‘teen’ film, is its ability to capture
the sexual awakening, accompanied by awkwardness that is associated with
puberty, in a manner that will keep the young viewers entertained, while at the
same time, teaching them that it is okay to be different and most importantly,
that it is okay to be yourself. I have
never been a fan of ‘teen films’, well, certainly not the films that were aimed
at my age group at the time. While others were filled with excitement watching
High School Musical, I was simply cringing at ever scene and waiting for the spontaneous
sing along to end HA! However, throughout the years, my perspective on teen
films has changed, as the film industry is filled with outstanding films
portraying the hardship of growing up; without making the film cringe filled,
overdramatic, or simply boring. What I love about ‘teen’ films is their ability
of portraying growing up from different perspectives. Of course, there are
certain characteristics that as an audience we associate with such films. Sexuality,
abuse, drug and alcohol use, love, acceptance are among the most reoccurring
themes in teen films. Only now, looking in retrospect, can we see that each one
of us made some mistakes in our teenage years, some which may have had a
significant impact on our adult lives. So, I have chosen my top 8 favourite
teen films that I have been able to watch, which I admire for the honest, but
often humorous portrayal of young adults trying to make it in the big adult
world. Whether a film makes you laugh, or cry, the main message of teen films
is self-love, self expression and self acceptance; the crucial parts of life
that almost all young adults lack.
 |
| Nicholas Ray, 1955. |
I think it is
only fair to start the list with an all time classic that Rebel Without a Cause,
is! Without a doubt, I am the biggest James Dean fan ever! I simply adore the
icon that he was and still remains, however the reason why this film is crucial
for the teen community, is the fact that not only does it portray the struggle
of growing up, but it also allows its audience to see a historical
representation of the teenager! Rebel Without a Cause, follows the story of a
young teenage boy who is struggling to find himself, the dilemma of manhood
makes him question what it means to become a man. Many argue, that it was in
fact James Dean who invented the ‘teenager’, as during the 50s there was no
clear division between childhood and adulthood, and the idea of the rebellious
teenager was blurred and misunderstood. Dean and the film simply ooze coolness!
The film is regarded as one of the first teen films/ coming of age films in the
history of cinema. James Dean was chosen as the main lead due to the persona
that the Warner Bros helped to construct; the nonconformist with the good
looks. Along with Nicholas Ray, James Dean established the idea of a teen. Ray
cleverly uses the mise en scene to portray the creation of the teenager, as the
characters transition from miniature adults dressed in serious suits to the
cool kids in blue jeans and white shirts. Not only is the film beautifully made
in regards to its cinematography and soundtrack, the film is great due to its
honest and innovative take on the exposure of what it means to be a young
adult, especially during the 50s. The boys are at constant war to establish who
the real man is, while the girls are swept off their feet by the bad boys with
the good looks, yeah Rebel has it all.
Not only did Ray aim to show the fashion, lifestyle and behaviour of
young people, he also focussed of the dynamic between the teen and its parents,
which as we all know can often be tricky. Rebel, is fuelled with emotion and
desperation form the young people trying hard to fit in, be liked, but yet,
trying to please their parents, making decisions that lead to serious consequences.
 |
| Marielle Heller, 2015. |
Moving on, let’s
talk 70s dude! The Diary of a Teenage Girl, is one of the best, if not the best
films portraying young female sexuality. During the initial promotion campaign,
I fell in love with the idea behind the film, and I simply could not wait to
finally see it! The film is set in San Francisco during the adventurous 70s, which
arguably was the most colourful and sexually revolutionary decade! The
narrative of the film focuses on a young girl living with her party loving mum,
her mum’s boyfriend, whom she begins an affair with, and her little annoying
sister. The cast of the film includes the wonderful Bel Powely, Kristen Wiig
and of course, one of the most handsome men in Hollywood, Alexander Skarsgard.
What initially drawn me to the film was the setting. Just like Rebel Without a
Cause, this film allows its audience to see the transition of child to adult
from a different historical perspective. From start to finish, the Diary of the
Teenage Girl had me captured with its breathtaking cinematography, along with
the comic like animated sequences, which add to the story telling technique of
a diary written by a young girl, and also adds humour! Minnie represents the
typical teenage girl, full of self-doubt, low self esteem, but a wandering,
curious mind. When her body begins to change, she cannot accept herself and
starts comparing herself to other ‘typically beautiful girls’, certainly having
an outgoing mother, who claims she was ‘quite the catch’ in her teenage years
does not help in Minnie’s low self-esteem. While Minnie is becoming more
curious about her body, her sexuality and the perks of adulthood (sex, drugs
and alcohol) along comes Monroe, who becomes interested in Minnie and they
begin their sexual adventure behind Minnie’s mother’s back. The Diary of a
Teenage Girl, exposes the curiosity of young females and the dangers, along
with consequences, that await for them. The film is captivating, humorous and
most importantly, an honest portrayal of sexuality among girls. The film sends
out a crucial message to teenage girls, showing them that just like boys, they
will too, have a growing interest in sex and they should not be ashamed or
embarrassed to explore their sexuality and build their adult personality and
outlook on life. The film is critically acclaimed and is a must see for all!
 |
| Mark Waters, 2004. |
Next, how
could this list even exist without the mentioning of Mean Girls... Before
watching the film I assumed it was going to be the typical melodramatic, pink
painted, girl hating chick flick, but I was so wrong! Many would argue that
Mean Girls is the holy grail of all teen films. The film is iconic for its star
filled cast, the quotable dialogue along with its cinematography and editing. Although,
Mean Girls certainly takes a lighter and more humorous approach to puberty,
than the films that I have already mentioned, it certainly exposes the world of
overdramatic teenage girls, queer guys and of course the bad boys. Although, it
is a heavily entertaining film, and a perfect pick for a Friday night with the
girls, it certainly carries a strong message along the way as not only does the
film make us laugh, it also teaches its audience that the stereotypical ideology
of coolness is so overrated. As a girl, or a boy, you do not have to try so
hard to be liked, accepted or loved, you can be a maths geeks (or a Maths Olympic
champion ... You go Glen CoCo) an emo, or a gay dude, as being cool is about
accepting one another and simply being your true self. What makes the film so
great is the ability it has to make us laugh, while at the same time tackling
issues such as bullying, homophobia and even body dimorphic disorders, as after
all, the period of transitioning into an adult is filled with a lot of
struggles and the ongoing chase of acceptance. Mean Girls, is without a doubt,
a film for everyone and even after watching it numerous times, it never fails
to make me laugh.
 |
| Stephen Chbosky, 2012. |
The Perks of
being a Wallflower, is not only a magnificent teen film, but also one of my all
time favourite films. The film is heartfelt and moving, while the film is aimed
at the teen age group, it certainly is a film that conveys a deep message to
all age groups. The narrative of the film focuses on an awkward teenage boy
played by Logan Lerman, he is an outsider who does not participate in the
stereotypical social life of a person his age; he lives his life observing from
the side. Up on meeting new friends he begins a journey of self discovery. Growing
up means many ‘first times’, whether it’s a sexual experience, love, or even
friendship, what we experience in our teenage years, acts as a base for our
future adult relationships. Not only is the film well made in terms of the editing,
cinematography and a fastastic soundtrack consisting of David Bowie along with The Smiths and many more, the overall narrative follows swiftly to
represent the journey faced by the awkward, yet blooming boy. The Perks of
Being a Wallflower, manipulates the audiences emotions by exposing the hurt and
joy of the first heartbreak, the pain of not belonging as well as the joy of
life. The film transmits honest wisdom about life. Although the film is rather
entertaining, it still manages to tackle issues of depression which is a
consequence of not belonging and the drastic changes that occur during this
specific time; the film captures the raw and honest emotions that often are not
taken seriously by adults regarding teenagers. The Perks of Being a Wallflower
was a big hit without a doubt, but if you have not yet had the pleasure of
watching it I really suggest you do. The Perks of Being a Wallflower, manages
to capture the beauty of life, while at the same time exposing the truth behind
a broken heart, rejection and mental health issues.
 |
| Gia Coppola, 2013. |
With a star
filled cast from the likes of James Franco and Emma Robert, Gia Coppola brings
us the phenomenal Paolo Alto. Compared to the films that I have previously
mentioned the film certainly is richer in the dramatic atmosphere, as the mood
of the film is rather depressing, yet very authentic in its portrayal of young
adults. The film can be interpreted as a desperate scream for help, or the need
of love and attention that many young people lack, as without it often people
engage in dangerous behaviours without considering the consequences. One of the
highlights of the film is definitely James Franco in the role of the Mr. B.
Many recognise Franco from humour driven films, however he is a magnificent
actor which is able to take on any role. Paolo Alto, focuses on some rather
taboo subject such as sexual relations between a pupil and a teacher; Coppola
manages to explore the dynamic between the pupils and the ongoing competition
among them, while also concentrating on the reasons as to why, some young
people engage in such behaviours like a relationship with a teacher. The film
portrays young people as hopeless and often self-destructive individuals, who
are simply lost and desperate to be found. While Paolo Alto will not make you
cry with laughter, it will evoke an emotional response. The film stands out due
to the overall mood, along with the authentic feel which aids in establishing a
bond between the characters and the audience. The plot structure of Paolo Alto
is loose and focuses on individual events, the structure does not follow the
typical conflict: resolution: climax ratio meaning that the story of its
characters is left open to interpretation; the film only represents a chapter
in the lives of the youths, therefore an explicit ending is not used to signify
the that life carries on, and what we do in our youth, is a life lesson and not
a life sentence.
 |
| Richard Linklater, 1993. |
When I think
of Mathew McConaughey, the first thing that comes to my mind is his manly
looks, tanned skin and of course a beautiful body, but most importantly a
respected number of astonishing performance in a variety of films (or maybe
just him wearing a G-string in Magic Mike... I’m not even sorry). So how about
a film starring young baby faced Mathew, with blonde hair and an awkward moustache
for a change... I’m totally in! Dazed and Confused, is another teen classic,
and of course, a must see. The narrative of the film follows the story of a
group of teenage friends celebrating the last day of high school in the late
70s. Arguably, the film is rather stereotypically ‘American’ as the audience
get to see the raucous teens engaging in parties, hazing and of course as the
title suggests, drug use. Not only do we
get to see a different look of Mathew McConaughey, Ben Affleck also makes a notable
appearance in the role of a crazy senior bully, desperate to haze his fellow
younger students. The films humour, is at times distinctive, which signifies
the age group it was targeted at.
Overall, the film provokes positive ‘vibes’ portraying a variety of
different characters which all belong to a certain subculture group that teens
are associated with, however what more to expect from Linklater, who arguably
is among the best directors, exploring the world of young adults. Dazed and
Confused, marks the importance of finishing high school, in the process of
becoming an adult. What makes Dazed and Confused a brilliant coming of age film,
is the portrayal of preteens and the already ‘legally established’ young adults
and the dynamic among them; while the freshmen boys try to escape a hazing they
find rescues and friendship among the older cooler guys. Of course, as any teen
film on this list, the idea of the ‘ first times’ also plays a major role in
the story, whether it’s a first kiss, first sex or a first blunt, Dazed and
Confused has it all. While watching teen films which focus on different time
periods, the audience get to see that the idea of a teenage has not changed,
and the process is just as awkward as it will ever be, unfortunately... Perhaps
now society is more technologically advanced, but the teens are and will be the
ever so curious, rebellious awkward creatures, looking for fun!
 |
| Gil Junger, 1999. |
‘Don’t let
anyone ever make you feel like you don’t deserve what you want’. Yes, another
timeless teen classic must be on this list! 10 Things I hate About You, is
among the most well know teen films, not only has it managed to gain a major fan
base it has been well received by critics. On the outside, the film appears to
be another chick flick about the relationships between adolescent boys and
girls, however the film offers much more than a few gags and a few teen
parties. The 90s certainly were the years for the ultimate teen films, as
everyone wanted to be so cool; the perfect teen girl with her gadgets and the
cool guy with gel in his hair and dreams of becoming a boy band member. There
are simply limitless reasons as to why I love this film, one of them definitely
is the cast, Heath Ledger with his boyish charm and a mesmerising smile,
alongside baby faced Joseph Gordon Lewitt, make one of the best teen duos!
While Ledger portrays the cool, yet distant and rebellious outsider, Lewitt
plays the role of the young romantic, in love with the prettiest and most
popular girl. The film is rather humorous in the portrayal of what teen boys or
girls would do for ‘love’ ... I mean Lewitt’s character learns to speak French
just to help the girl in her studies, if that isn’t love, then I don’t know
what is! While at first, the worlds of the four main characters seem so distant
and contrast drastically, the events that drive the plot result in the creation
of new, unexpected friendships and even relationships. The film informs its
audience, that young people have the tendency to construct their personas, many
try to live up to other people’s expectations by being pretty, or popular,
while other put up a ‘front’ that screams don’t approach me! 10 Things,
certainly is a mixture of humour and young love. What seems to be a reoccurring
theme among all films on this list, and teen films in general is the journey of
self-discovery and finding your belonging; underneath the stereotypical themes of
teen films, there is wisdom and valuable life lessons to be discovered. The
main focus of the film lies upon Ledger’s edgy character, and the ultimate cold-hearted,
unapproachable bitch played by Julia Stiles, this duo is an unlikely one and
the obstacles they face drive the plot, however their story tells the audience
that the idea of love, and in this instance ‘first love’, has the ability to
change people, or in fact bring the best in them. This film is also notable for
the sweet musical performance of Ledger! What girl would not want a guy like
him singing for them?
 |
| John Hughes, 1985. |
Out of all the
films on this list, The Breakfast Club is one of the most recent films that I
have had the chance to watch. The Breakfast Club was always on my list of must
see films, but I never got the chance to see the film until recently. Of
course, once again the film contains the typical ‘teen film stereotypes’ which
can be seen while looking at the characters, the setting of the film as well as
the overall dynamic between characters. Throughout the years, the film has
almost certainly gained a cult following. So what is it about this film that
makes it worth your time, well let’s find out. The narrative of the film
focuses on a group of school kids coming from different backgrounds socially,
economically and culturally, due to varying reasons, they must attend detention
on a Saturday morning. The whole film is set in a typical American school and
the characters also resemble the stereotypical American youths; the popular girl,
the geek, the emo, the jock, and of course, the trouble maker that most stay
away from. The film exposes what happens, when a group of young people, are
almost forced to spend time together. The mood of the film seems quite light-hearted
and certainly suits the overall codes and conventions of the teen flick,
however as the narrative progresses and the characters form bonds the
atmosphere changes as the characters go on a journey of self-discovery. The
film is, of course, very entertaining due to the contrasting personalities of
the characters, their troublemaking tendencies and due to their constant
bickering with the principal. Through the course of approximately 6/8 hours
spent together, the audience along with the characters learn a variety of
things about one another. The films dialogue changes with the mood, and through
their mischievous acts, the characters reveal their ‘true selves’; why they
strive to be the pretty girl, why they scare people away, or lack bravery when
it comes to self defence against bullies. The message of the film is rather
strong, as not only does the film entertain, it manages to portray the
misunderstood group of young people as intelligent, curious yet lost creatures.
What makes The Breakfast Club, an essential film in the understanding of teens,
is the portrayal of adults and the relations these young people have with them.
The characters all come from different families, and its clear to see how their
parents/ family life have shaped them. Additionally, the teachers who act as
role models for the youths, have a major impact on them in terms of self esteem
and confidence; often instead of helping the lost teens find faith in
themselves, they strip them off their identity and punish them being different.
The Breakfast Club, is a cult film without a doubt, it’s not only a film, but a
life guide for young people struggling to fit in. Who would have though, that
the most beautiful and popular girl, will have anything in common with a geek
or a bad boy? Well they certainly do. The Breakfast Club enables the audience
to see that rebellion is not the only thing teenagers have in common, as they
also share the same struggles, yet are too scared to open up. Not only did this
film surprise me in the manner the narrative progressed, it made me hopeful,
yet, a little emotional, knowing that so many young people are told they will
never achieve their dreams, simply because of the background they come from.
So here we
have my top 8 picks for the best ‘coming of age’ films. I must admit, that it
has taken me some time to choose the best of the best, as there are simply so
many remarkable films exposing the truth of adolescence. Whether you are an
adult, or a teen, such films can have a crucial influence on the way we
perceive ourselves and the world around us. After all, we all once searched, or still are searching for
acceptance, love and understanding, so perhaps even as an adult we have more in
common with these ‘teens’ than we think. Which film is your all-time favourite
teen film? Let me know!
Anna Gaszkowska
