Coming-of-Age Films That Capture Growing Pains | Cinemaworld
Coming-of-age films serve as mirrors, reflecting our own fears, dreams, and growing pains. They validate our emotions, reminding us that we’re not alone in our struggles. From fan favourites such as Lady Bird (starring Saoirse Ronan), Moonlight, The Perks of Being a Wallflower (Emma Watson), and Eighth Grade—all which resonate deeply because they reflect universal struggles about identity, love, family conflicts, and the search for belonging. This July, CinemaWorld invites you to step into the shoes of our young protagonists’ growth, their relatable struggles and emotional catharsis that echo our pivotal life experiences.
All The Songs We Never Sang (2023)
Part of the Official Selection of the 2024 Osaka Asian Film Festival, All The Songs We Never Sang follows the young Natsumi as she reconnects with her mother’s past through the art of traditional pearl diving (ama). A slickly-made and warm-hearted family drama buoyed up by ama culture and 80s City Pop ensues, don’t miss All The Songs We Never Sang.
Particles (2019)
When a group of friends notice a strange phenomena happening all around them, their whole world begins to shift. Little do they know that right beneath their feet stands a powerful particle accelerator that is trying to recreate the conditions of the Big Bang. Mirroring the disorienting transition from adolescence to adulthood, they witness how the world around them fractures, just like their friendships. A 2019 Cannes Golden Camera Nominee, don’t miss this coming-of-age, sci-fi debut masterpiece, Particles!
3 Meters Above The Sky (2010)
Falling in love and the ache of teenage heartbreak—isn't this a familiar rite of passage to adulthood? CinemaWorld’s crowd favourite movie is making a comeback in July. 3 Meters Above The Sky is the 2010 Spanish Box Office Hit that follows the passionate romance of first loves Hugo (Mario Casas) and Babi (Maria Valverde). Be prepared to be swept off your feet with this whirlwind romance packed with action, angst and impulse.
I Have Electric Dreams (2022)
16-year-old Eva is at her teenage prime. She wants to live with her estranged father—the “cool dad” who lets her drink and smoke cigarettes. Costa Rica’s 2024 Official Oscar Entry, I Have Electric Dreams is a raw and unnerving exploration of difficult familial relationships and teenagehood.
Train Driver’s Diary (2016)
Statistics say that during their professional career every train driver unintentionally kills 15 to 20 people. Ilija is a 60-year-old train driver, who holds the infamous record of 28 kills committed during his career. Ilija’s 19-year-old adopted son Sima follows in his father’s footsteps. He’s terrified, unwilling to become a killer. Serbia’s Official Submission in the 2017 Oscars, Train Driver’s Diary is a dark comedy that takes a heartwarming turn, proving that growing up isn’t about avoiding the absurdity of fate—it's about the courage to redefine it.
Elaha (2023)
Does my virginity define my worth as a woman? This question hangs in the balance for 22-year-old Elaha. As a Kurdish-German woman, Elaha is torn between family expectations and her heart’s desires. Her climactic choice between emancipation and appeasing cultural tradition is a piercing look at the cost of authenticity.
Coming-of-age films endure because they remind us that growth is messy, painful, and beautiful. They teach us that the struggles of youth—heartbreak, identity crises, family conflicts—are not just obstacles but essential steps in becoming who we’re meant to be.
Catch these international films on CinemaWorld and CinemaWorld On Demand this July. 🎬
Want more exclusive behind-the-scenes content, international premieres, and box-office hits? Join our community of film lovers today!
Subscribe to CinemaWorld now for the best of international cinema!
