The 63 Best Teen Movies of All Time, from ‘Clueless’ to ‘Hunger Games’
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The best teen movies stay with us a lot longer than a 90-minute sitting. And no wonder; adolescence, and all of its ups and downs—be it falling in love, navigating new settings or finding your identity—is rife to explore in cinema. It's why I've grown attached to so many coming-of-age films, from timeless classics like The Breakfast Club to charming adaptations like Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret. (The bust exercise gets me every time.)
Whether you're looking to relive those high school days or help your kids navigate those tricky years, I've rounded up 63 of the best teen movies, including musicals, romantic comedies, thrillers and dramas. And the best part? All are available to watch on streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, Max and more. Get your popcorn ready.
The 83 Best Family Movies of All Time
1. Suncoast (2024)
Eric Zachanowich/ 20th Century Studios
Who's in it? Laura Linney, Nico Parker, Woody Harrelson
Run time: 109 minutes
Genre: Comedy, Drama
Laura Chinn's semi-autobiographical film revolves around Doris, a teenager who tries to navigate high school and support her brother, who suffers from brain cancer. When he's moved to a specialized facility, she quickly befriends a young activist who's protesting a famous medical case. Not only does the film pose interesting questions about religion, but it also explores mortality and loss of innocence.
2. Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret (2023)
Lionsgate
Who's in it? Abby Ryder Fortson, Rachel McAdams, Kathy Bates
Run time: 106 minutes
Genre: Drama, Comedy
As I've mentioned in my 5-star review, this adaptation of Judy Blume's novel totally exceeded my expectations—and this is coming from someone who read the book growing up. When sixth grader Margaret Simon moves to New Jersey, she starts to grapple with doubts about the existence of God while navigating puberty and trying to adjust to a new environment.
3. See You on Venus (2023)
Pitt Street Productions
Who's in it? Virginia Gardner, Alex Aiono, Rob Estes
Run time: 95 minutes
Genre: Romance, Drama
When 18-year-old Mia embarks on a mission to find her biological mother, she crosses paths with Kyle, a troubled teen who agrees to join her on the journey. During the road trip, they fall in love and learn an important life lesson along the way.
4. You Are So Not Invited to My Bat Mitzvah (2023)
Who's in it? Idina Menzel, Jackie Sandler, Adam Sandler, Sadie Sandler
Run time: 103 minutes
Genre: Comedy
This feel-good comedy follows 12-year-old Stacy, who's crushed when she discovers that her best friend has betrayed her while trying to plan the perfect bat mitzvah. Rachel Gulmi, PureWow's Director of Special Projects, said, "It made me feel like I was that age again with all the drama and friendship circles and party invites. It was so cute and hit on all the right notes."
5. Lisa Frankenstein (2024)
Michele K. Short /2024 FOCUS FEATURES
Who's in it? Kathryn Newton, Cole Sprouse, Liza Soberano, Henry Eikenberry, Joe Chrest, Carla Gugino
Run time: 101 minutes
Genre: Horror, Comedy
The comedy horror stars Sprouse as a resurrected corpse who develops a relationship with Lisa—a troubled girl who's dealing with her mother's recent murder. Directed by Zelda Williams, Lisa Frankenstein is set in the same universe as cult-classic horror film, Jennifer's Body.
A24
6. Lady Bird (2017)
Who's in it? Saoirse Ronan, Laurie Metcalf, Tracy Letts, Lucas Hedges
Run time: 94 minutes
Genre: Comedy, Drama
This coming-of-age flick directed by Greta Gerwig and starring Saoirse Ronan has it all: brilliant writing, stellar performances and all the nostalgia (the main character is a high school senior in 2002). No wonder it garnered five nominations at the 90th Academy Awards including one for Best Director (Gerwig becoming only the fifth woman ever to do so).
Paramount Pictures
7. Clueless (1995)
Who's in it? Alicia Silverstone, Stacey Dash, Brittany Murphy, Paul Rudd
Run time: 97 minutes
Genre: Comedy
Loosely based on Jane Austen’s Emma, this funny teen classic set in Beverly Hills is a must-see for its iconic ’90s fashion, quotable dialogue (“as if”) and killer soundtrack. Revisit Cher Horowitz as she takes the "tragically unhip" newbie, Tai under her wing and gives her the makeover of a lifetime.
Warner Bros. Pictures
8. The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants (2005)
Who's in it? Amber Tamblyn, America Ferrera, Blake Lively, Alexis Bledel
Run time: 119 minutes
Genre: Comedy, Drama
We love this sweet story about magical jeans (it makes sense in the movie, we promise) and friendship almost as much as we love the fact that its four stars have stayed super close since then.
Associate Editor Chelsea Candelario said, "The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants is such a great coming of age movie. I remember reading the books and falling in love with the characters. It’s such a great friendship film! I wish I could share jeans with my friends. Imagine that!"
Disney
9. Mulan (2020)
Who's in it? Yifei Liu, Donnie Yen, Tzi Ma, Jason Scott Lee
Run time: 115 minutes
Genre: Fantasy, Action
Fans of the original 1998 classic will love this modernized, live-action version. Yifei Liu stars as Mulan, a brave girl who disguises herself as a man so she can serve in the Imperial Army.
Screen Gems
10. Easy A (2010)
Who's in it? Emma Stone, Penn Badgley, Amanda Bynes
Run time: 92 minutes
Genre: Comedy
If The Scarlet Letter is on your teen’s school curriculum, then this witty flick starring the very talented (and hilarious) Emma Stone is a must-watch. And Philip Mutz, PureWow's VP of Entertainment and News, certainly agrees. He said, "Easy A made Emma Stone a star and it's a genuinely funny and smart movie (and I'm kind of obsessed with Lisa Kudrow as the guidance counselor)."
Fox Searchlight Pictures
11. The Secret Life of Bees (2008)
Who's in it? Queen Latifah, Dakota Fanning, Jennifer Hudson, Alicia Keys
Run time: 110 minutes
Genre: Drama
Lily Owens visits a small South Carolina town in an attempt to learn more about her late mother. While there, she meets the Boatwright sisters, who take her in and teach her about beekeeping.
Fine Line Features
12. Hoop Dreams (1994)
Who's in it? William Gates, Arthur Agee
Run time: 171 minutes
Genre: Sports, Documentary
Follow two inner city kids from Chicago as they dream of basketball glory in this riveting documentary that tackles race and class issues.
Netflix
13. Crazy Beautiful You (2015)
Who's in it? Kathryn Bernardo, Daniel Padilla
Run time: 114 minutes
Genre: Drama
Jackie is less than thrilled to be accompanying her mom on a medical mission—that is, until she meets Kiko. Aside from exploring teenage love, this touching drama also deals with themes like the importance of forgiveness and family.
Fox Searchlight Pictures
14. Juno (2007)
Who's in it? Elliot Page, Michael Cera, Jennifer Garner
Run time: 96 minutes
Genre: Comedy, Drama
Pop culture references abound in this quirky and critically acclaimed film about a pregnant teenager. The soundtrack is just as brilliant as Elliot Page’s wisecracking yet sensitive performance.
Fox Searchlight Pictures
15. Bend It Like Beckham (2002)
Who's in it? Parminder Nagra, Keira Knightley, Jonathan Rhys Meyers
Run time: 112 minutes
Genre: Sports, Comedy
Jess’s strict parents won’t let her play soccer. When she secretly joins a semi-pro team, she creates a web of lies to hide her whereabouts.
Paramount Pictures
16. Like A Boss (2020)
Who's in it? Tiffany Haddish, Rose Byrne, Jennifer Coolidge
Run time: 83 minutes
Genre: Comedy
When someone offers to buy out their cosmetics company, Mia and Mel’s friendship is put to the test, due to their different goals. Per usual, Coolidge is a gem, and though it's not focused on teenagers, it tackles themes that are sure to resonate with teens, like teamwork, integrity and living authentically.
Sony Pictures Classics
17. An Education (2009)
Who's in it? Carey Mulligan, Peter Sarsgaard, Alfred Molina
Run time: 100 minutes
Genre: Drama
Carey Mulligan’s breakout role in this drama set in 1960 taps into every teenage girl’s desire to be treated like an adult. This Oscar-winning script navigates heartbreak, consequences and what it means to grow up.
Columbia Pictures
18. Annie (2014)
Who's in it? Jamie Foxx, Quvenzhane Wallis, Rose Byrne
Run time: 118 minutes
Genre: Comedy
Allow me to introduce the modern-day version of the story we all know and love. It follows an orphan whose hard-knock life is changed for the better when she’s taken in by a lonely billionaire.
Associate Editor Destinee Scott said, "Annie is my favorite, and it's not only because I have a small crush on Jamie Foxx. The movie is funny, uplifting and so inspiring. I always feel warm and fuzzy after watching it, and everyone knows the plot, but for me, it's all about finding love in the places you least expect it."
Walt Disney Studios
19. Aladdin (2019)
Who's in it? Will Smith, Mena Massoud, Naomi Scott
Run time: 128 minutes
Genre: Comedy, Musical, Adventure
Everyone knows the lovable street urchin, but they’ve never seen him like this. Relive the classic story with Disney’s live-action adaptation, which follows Aladdin as he teams up with a genie to defeat the evil sorcerer, Jafar.
IFC Films/Good Machine
20. Y Tu Mama Tambien (2001)
Who's in it? Maribel Verdú, Gael García Bernal, Diego Luna
Run time: 106 minutes
Genre: Drama
This art-house movie follows two Mexican teenage boys on a spontaneous road trip with an older woman. Rated R, this one’s best for the older set. No giggling, kids.
Paramount Pictures
21. Mean Girls (2004)
Who's in it? Lindsay Lohan, Rachel McAdams, Tim Meadows
Run time: 97 minutes
Genre: Comedy, Drama
Written by Tina Fey and starring Rachel McAdams and Lindsay Lohan (plus Amy Poehler as the “cool mom”), this move is so fetch. (Translation: smart, funny and an instant classic.) When you finish this gem, check out the 2024 musical comedy, starring Angourie Rice and Reneé Rapp.
Warner Bros.
22. Rebel Without a Cause (1955)
Who's in it? James Dean, Natalie Wood, Sal Mineo
Run time: 111 minutes
Genre: Drama
Starring the original teenage heartthrob, James Dean, this coming-of-age classic follows a trio of troubled teens as they try to navigate their own issues and family drama.
PureWow Executive Editor Alexia Dellner said, "I was obsessed with Rebel Without a Cause when I was younger. The teen angst, the '50s fashion and L.A. backdrop...it's all so good. But the main draw, of course, is how damn cool James Dean is in the movie."
Netflix
23. To All the Boys I've Loved Before (2018)
Who's in it? Lana Condor, Noah Centineo, Janel Parrish
Run time: 99 minutes
Genre: Romantic Comedy
Things get complicated for high school junior Lara Jean Covey when five of her secret love letters get mailed out to their recipients—including her friend Josh, who happens to be dating her older sister Margot. She quickly enlists the help of Peter Kavinsky to fake a romance in order to convince Josh that her letter meant nothing.
PureWow's Associate SEO Editor, Marissa Wu, said, "To All the Boys made my heart completely melt. The premise is crazy, the sister dynamics are fantastic, and Lana Condor is amazing! Plus, [I love] the chemistry between Lara Jean and Peter. I am not a movie person, but I WATCHED THE WHOLE TRILOGY!"
20th Century Fox
24. Love, Simon (2018)
Who's in it? Nick Robinson, Josh Duhamel, Jennifer Garner
Run time: 110 minutes
Genre: Romantic Comedy
Young love can be tough, especially for 17-year-old Simon Spier who hasn't told his family or friends that he's gay. And that's not all—Simon falls for one of his classmates online but has no idea who this person is. Assistant Editor Delia Curtis calls the movie "romantic, comedic and very true to a lot of queer experiences."
Columbia Pictures
25. Superbad (2007)
Who's in it? Jonah Hill, Michael Cera, Seth Rogen
Run time: 113 minutes
Genre: Comedy
Sure, the plot seems like your run-of-the-mill male teen movie (hormone-fueled high schoolers on a quest to buy booze so that they can get laid). Still, it’s surprisingly funny and endearingly sweet.
Columbia Pictures
26. 13 Going On 30 (2004)
Who's in it? Jennifer Garner, Mark Ruffalo, Judy Greer
Run time: 98 minutes
Genre: Comedy, Fantasy
This feel-good rom-com transports 13-year-old Jenna into adulthood, thanks to some clever birthday wish magic. But being a grown-up isn’t quite as fun as she thought it would be—good thing her old pal Matt is there to help.
Wu said, "I 100 percent see the appeal of Jennifer Garner. The depiction of media life is hilarious, and I'm pretty sure I think of the "thriller" dance scene at least once a month. Also, I love the happy ending."
SANJA BUCKO/WARNER BROS
27. The Hate U Give (2018)
Who's in it? Amandla Stenberg, Regina Hall, Russell Hornsby
Run time: 133 minutes
Genre: Crime, Drama
Based on Angie Thomas's YA novel of the same name, this powerful coming-of-age film follows 16-year-old Starr Carter, who decides to take a stand after she witnesses the murder of her friend at the hands of a police officer. This poignant tale explores identity, police brutality, racism and the Black Lives Matter movement.
Lionsgate Films
28. Hunger Games (2012)
Who's in it? Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson, Liam Hemsworth
Run time: 142 minutes
Genre: Drama, Action
For a dose of fantasy that's a little more badass, look no further than this dystopian science fiction-adventure flick. Jennifer Lawrence plays Katniss Everdeen, the brave member of the 12th district who volunteers to take her younger sister's place in the Hunger Games—an annual fight to the death.
A24/ Sundance Institute Pro
29. Eighth Grade (2018)
Who's in it? Elsie Fisher, Daniel Zolghadri, Fred Hechinger
Run time: 94 minutes
Genre: Comedy, Drama
Watch 13-year-old Kayla navigate the challenges of early adolescence (including social media and constant phone use) as she makes her way through the last week of middle school. This teenage movie is awkward, sweet and will give you all the feels.
Paramount Pictures
30. Ferris Bueller's Day Off (1986)
Who's in it? Matthew Broderick, Mia Sara, Alan Ruck
Run time: 103 minutes
Genre: Comedy
Another John Hughes classic, this time starring Matthew Broderick as Ferris, a whipsmart high schooler who calls in sick, borrows a Ferrari and takes his friends on an epic one-day adventure around Chicago. But will the principal catch him before the day is over?
Per Mutz, "It's Matthew Broderick at his best. Such a fun and funny movie that provides all the '80s nostalgia (especially the fun fashion)."
Walt Disney Pictures/Buena Vista Pictures
31. Freaky Friday (2003)
Who's in it? Jamie Lee Curtis, Lindsay Lohan, Harold Gould
Run time: 96 minutes
Genre: Comedy, Fantasy
Don't you sometimes wish your kid could see the world from your perspective (and vice versa)? Enter this sweet flick that stars Jamie Lee Curtis and Lindsay Lohan as a mother and daughter whose bodies are switched thanks to a magical Chinese fortune cookie. (P.S., Lindsay Lohan confirmed that a Freaky Friday sequel is in the works, so stay tuned for even more of Tess and Anna.)
BoulderLight Pictures
32. The Wrath of Becky (2023)
Who's in it? Lulu Wilson, Seann William Scott
Run time: 83 minutes
Genre: Action, Thriller
In this sequel to the 2020 film Becky,
Three years after escaping a terrifying attack on her family, 16-year-old Becky tries to get a fresh start by living with an older woman named Elena. However, when a group of attackers break into their home and kidnap their dog, Becky is forced to go to great lengths to protect herself.
Touchstone Pictures
33. 10 Things I Hate About You (1999)
Who's in it? Julia Stiles, Heath Ledger, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Larisa Oleynik
Run time: 97 minutes
Genre: Romantic Comedy
In this modern twist on Shakespeare's The Taming of the Shrew, quick-witted and super-smart Kat Stratford is totally uninterested in the boys at school. But her younger sister, Bianca, isn't allowed to date until Kat has a boyfriend. So, Bianca and nice guy Cameron join forces so that Kat meets handsome and rebellious Patrick Verona. And well, you'll just have to watch to see what happens next.
United Artists Releasing
34. Booksmart (2019)
Who's in it? Kaitlyn Dever, Beanie Feldstein, Jessica Williams, Jason Sudeikis
Run time: 105 minutes
Genre: Comedy
Directed by Olivia Wilde, this charming comedy about two best friends is the ultimate feel-good Friday night flick. When Amy and Molly realize how much they missed out on in high school because they were busy studying, they decide to make the most out of the night before graduation.
Toho
35. Your Name (2017)
Who's in it? Ryunosuke Kamiki, Mone Kamishiraishi
Run time: 107 minutes
Genre: Drama, Anime
This beautiful Japanese film follows two teenagers—one in Tokyo and the other in a rural village—who suddenly begin to switch bodies. The duo fall in love and try to find each other even though they've never actually met or even know each other's names.
Walt Disney Pictures/Buena Vista Pictures
36. The Princess Diaries (2001)
Who's in it? Anne Hathaway, Héctor Elizondo, Heather Matarazzo, Mandy Moore
Run time: 115 minutes
Genre: Comedy
Anne Hathaway's breakout role as Mia Thermopolis, a regular girl who finds out that she's the Princess of the fictional country of Genovia. But being royalty isn't quite as fun as you think.
Wu said, "I just love the transformation for Mia. Not physically (though that's fun), but over the course of the two films, she learns how to be a leader and stand up for her values—that's automatic queen status for me."
Warner Bros. Pictures/New Line Entertainment
37. 17 Again (2009)
Who's in it? Zac Efron, Leslie Mann, Thomas Lennon, Michelle Trachtenberg
Run time: 106 minutes
Genre: Comedy, Drama
A middle-aged man gets the chance to rewrite his past when he somehow finds himself back in his 17-year-old body. Things seem great at first but being seventeen isn't so easy. So yeah, basically the opposite of 13 Going on 30.
Paramount Pictures
38. Grease (1978)
Who's in it? John Travolta, Olivia Newton-John, Stockard Channing
Run time: 110 minutes
Genre: Romantic Comedy, Musical
This classic musical may be set in the 1950s, but the soundtrack is as good as ever. Plus, seeing Danny and Sandy's budding summer romance never gets old. (P.S., when you finish the movie, do yourself a favor and watch the prequel, Grease: Rise of the Pink Ladies.)
Richard P. Ulivella/Universal Pictures
39. Pitch Perfect (2012)
Who's in it? Anna Kendrick, Skylar Astin, Rebel Wilson
Run time: 112 minutes
Genre: Romantic Comedy
For more killer tunes (but contemporary ones this time) check out this pop-perfect flick about an all-female a cappella group as they try to make their way back to the top. Mutz said, "The Pitch Perfect finale megamix is one of those movie musical moments that you can watch on repeat (and that will easily be stuck in your head)."
Buena Vista Pictures
40. Dead Poets Society (1989)
Who's in it? Robin Williams, Robert Sean Leonard, Ethan Hawke, Josh Charles
Run time: 128 minutes
Genre: Drama, Comedy
Bring on the tissues. This moving story about a conservative New England prep school for boys is a tearjerker in its own right, but Robin Williams’s performance as an unconventional English teacher will really pull at your heartstrings.
Sony Pictures Classics
41. The Diary of a Teenage Girl (2015)
Who's in it? Bel Powley, Alexander Skarsgård, Christopher Meloni
Run time: 102 minutes
Genre: Drama, Comedy
Refreshing and laugh-out-loud funny, this adaptation of Phoebe Gloeckner's autobiographical novel takes an honest look at a teen’s complicated journey into womanhood. Parental advisory: The themes in this one are definitely more mature, so make sure you know your audience.
Fox Searchlight Pictures
42. Little Miss Sunshine (2006)
Who's in it? Greg Kinnear, Steve Carell, Toni Collette, Paul Dano
Run time: 102 minutes
Genre: Drama, Comedy
Follow the dysfunctional Hoover family as they road trip to California to support the youngest member of their clan in her bid to win the Little Miss Sunshine contest. Funny, touching and totally original.
Universal Pictures
43. The Breakfast Club (1985)
Who's in it? Molly Ringwald, Emilio Estevez, Paul Gleason, Judd Nelson
Run time: 97 minutes
Genre: Drama, Comedy
We could have picked any film from director John Hughes’s canon, but this one reigns supreme. Five high schoolers—the jock, the punk, the geek, the popular girl and the outcast—bond over one day’s detention, and realize that maybe they’re not so different after all.
Summit Entertainment
44. The Perks of Being a Wallflower (2012)
Who's in it? Logan Lerman, Emma Watson, Ezra Miller
Run time: 103 minutes
Genre: Drama, Comedy, Romance
Adapted from a novel of the same name, this sensitive film follows a young high schooler with clinical depression as he navigates school, friends and his first love (Emma Watson).
PureWow Assistant Editor Karelle McKay said, "I absolutely LOVED the book and the movie is just as good. I still have to keep a box of tissues handy whenever I watch them. So good!"
New Line Cinema
45. Now and Then (1995)
Who's in it? Christina Ricci, Rosie O'Donnell, Thora Birch, Melanie Griffith, Gaby Hoffmann
Run time: 100 minutes
Genre: Romance, Comedy
In Now and Then, our longtime friends reunite and bond over childhood memories as one of them prepares to give birth. Watch this one with your teen—it’s pure childhood nostalgia. A beautiful story of friendship, adventure and Devon Sawa.
Columbia Pictures
46. Almost Famous (2000)
Who's in it? Billy Crudup, Frances McDormand, Kate Hudson
Run time: 122 minutes
Genre: Drama, Comedy
This charming coming-of-age story about a 15-year-old boy going on the road with an up-and-coming rock band in the 1970s is required viewing for every budding musician and/or journalist. (Fun fact: the movie is semi-autobiographical. Cameron Crowe, who wrote and directed the film, did his first cover story for Rolling Stone at just 16 years old.)
Sony Pictures
47. Persepolis (2007)
Who's in it? Chiara Mastroianni, Catherine Deneuve
Run time: 96 minutes
Genre: Drama
An animated adaptation of a graphic-novel memoir, this may feel like a very different childhood existence to the one you had (or the one your teen is experiencing), but nonetheless this coming-of-age movie set during the Islamic Revolution and told from a young girl’s point of view is a definite must-see.
Refugee Films
48. Fast Times At Ridgemont High (1982)
Who's in it? Sean Penn, Jennifer Jason Leigh, Judge Reinhold, Phoebe Cates
Run time: 90 minutes
Genre: Drama, Comedy
Sean Penn’s best performance. Yep, we said it. This classic high school comedy takes a peak into the lives of multiple high schoolers trying to figure out the whole growing up thing in the ‘80s. Oh, and Matthew McConaughey’s there, too.
20th Century Fox
49. Breaking Away (1979)
Who's in it? Dennis Christopher, Dennis Quaid, Daniel Stern
Run time: 101 minutes
Genre: Drama, Comedy
Remember that weird but momentous summer you had right after you graduated high school? This charming (and totally underrated) film follows four friends during that time, as they figure out their next step into adulthood. A fun flick that will make you feel pretty damn great at the end (and also possibly considering taking a bike tour of Italy).
Warner Bros.
50. The Outsiders (1983)
Who's in it? Matt Dillon, Ralph Macchio, Patrick Swayze, Rob Lowe, Emilio Estevez, Tom Cruise
Run time: 91 minutes
Genre: Drama
A coming-of-age drama directed by Francis Ford Coppola that tells the story of the ongoing gang rivalry between the Greasers and the Socs in rural Oklahoma. This book adaptation features a stellar cast that includes Matt Dillon, Patrick Swayze, Rob Lowe, Emilio Estevez and Tom Cruise. Stay gold, guys.
A24
51. American Honey (2016)
Who's in it? Sasha Lane, Shia LaBeouf, Riley Keough
Run time: 163 minutes
Genre: Drama
When Star runs away from home, she becomes friends with a group of teenagers, who aren’t the best influence. This one will tug at your heartstrings, but viewer discretion is advised due to serious themes, including smoking, alcohol and sexual content.
Walt Disney Pictures/Pixar
52. Inside Out (2015)
Who's in it? Amy Poehler, Phyllis Smith, Richard Kind, Bill Hader
Run time: 95 minutes
OK, so this Disney Pixar flick may be aimed at a younger audience, but viewers of all ages will fall in love with its sweet message, relatable emotions and lovable characters. PureWow Editor-in-Chief Jillian Quint said, "If there's a better explanation of pre-adolescent emotions, I don't want to see it. I weep every time I watch, and I honestly think it helps my kids talk about their feelings."
Summit Entertainment
53. Twilight (2008)
Who's in it? Kristen Stewart, Robert Pattinson, Billy Burke, Peter Facinelli
Run time: 121 minutes
Genre: Drama, Fantasy, Romance
When it comes to teenage fantasy films, this vampire saga is the ultimate viewing experience. Watch with your kid and then discuss whether you're Team Edward or Team Jacob for the next six hours.
According to PureWow Associate Editor Chelsea Candelario, "Twilight is not the best movie, but it definitely defined my teenage years. I was team Edward all the way and I read the books a million times. I was definitely a diehard."
Archive Photos/Getty Images
54. Heathers (1989)
Who's in it? Winona Ryder, Christian Slater, Shannen Doherty
Run time: 103 minutes
Genre: Dark Comedy
This dark comedy follows popular girl at school Veronica and her new boyfriend, J.D. who devise a plot to kill all the cool kids. According to PureWow's Senior Food Editor, Katherine Gillen, "Heathers is the perfect mix of camp and witty cynicism and manages to avoid the corny stereotypes of many other '80s teen movies. (Plus there are so many good one liners.)"
Fox Searchlight Pictures
55. Roll Bounce (2005)
Who's in it? Shad Moss/Bow Wow, Nick Cannon, Meagan Good, Brandon T. Jackson
Run time: 104 minutes
Genre: Comedy, Drama, Romance
Set in 1970s Chicago, Roll Bounce follows 16-year-old Xavier and his friends, who have a passion for roller skating. When their go-to spot shuts down, they're forced to move to an upscale roller rink, where they enter a contest in hopes of maintaining their reputation.
GWAVE Productions
56. Let It Shine (2012)
Who's in it? Tyler James Williams, Coco Jones, Trevor Jackson
Run time: 104 minutes
Genre: Drama, Musical
Williams stars as 15–year-old Cyrus, a skilled choir director who has a hidden talent for writing rap lyrics. But when his best friend steals his work to get with Cyrus's crush, he has to step up and prove his skills to win her heart.
Candelario—a self-proclaimed DCOM kid, said, "Before Abbot Elementary, Tyler James Williams was killing it in this movie. The original songs were bangers and the story was so wholesome. Also, Coco Jones is fantastic."
CBS Films/Lionsgate
57. Five Feet Apart (2019)
Who's in it? Haley Lu Richardson, Cole Sprouse, Moisés Arias
Run time: 116 minutes
Genre: Romance, Drama
You'll want to keep a box of tissues nearby for this tearjerker about two teens with cystic fibrosis who want to be together, but can't. In fact, they have to stay five feet apart at all times.
58. Center Stage (2000)
Columbia Pictures
Who's in it? Amanda Schull, Zoe Saldana, Susan May Pratt
Run time: 115 minutes
Genre: Romance, Drama
Curious to learn about the stressful world of dance? Check out this drama, which follows a group of ambitious teens as they undergo vigorous training at the prestigious American Ballet Academy. PureWow's Executive Editor, Dara Katz, said, "I'd argue that there is no better movie finale than Center Stage, where Jodie Sawyer goes all 'punk,' fouetteing around in a *shocking* red tutu to "Canned Heat." There's a part of my heart that will forever be a little in love with bad boy Cooper Nielsen."
Paramount Pictures
59. Freedom Writers (2007)
Who's in it? Hilary Swank Imelda Staunton, Patrick Dempsey, Scott Glenn
Run time: 122 minutes
Genre: Drama
Based on Erin Gruwell's The Freedom Writers Diary, this moving film revolves around a dedicated teacher named Erin Gruwell, who goes above and beyond to ensure her students plan for the future. Swank delivers an unforgetable performance here.
MGM
60. The Longshots (2008)
Who's in it? Ice Cube, Keke Palmer, Dash Mihok, Tasha Smith
Run time: 95 minutes
Genre: Comedy, Drama
Ice Cube stars as a former football player becomes coach of the Pop Warner team. His secret weapon? His niece Jasmine, who happens to be a skilled quarterback.
Columbia Pictures
61. The Karate Kid (1984)
Who's in it? Ralph Macchio, Noriyuki "Pat" Morita, Elisabeth Shue, William Zabka
Run time: 127 minutes
Genre: Action, Drama
When Daniel enrolls in a new school, he becomes the prime target of a group of bullies. In an attempt to defend himself, he enlists Mr. Miyagi, a repairman who just so happens to be a martial arts master.
Columbia Pictures
62. Scream (2022)
Who's in it? Melissa Barrera, Mason Gooding, Jenna Ortega, Jack Quaid
Run time: 114 minutes
Genre: Horror, Slasher
Fans of the original will enjoy this nail-biting remake, which follows a new masked killer terrorizing a group of teens. Take it from Mutz, a bonafide Scream fan, who said, "This new version has all the makings of a Scream hit: the self-referential jokes, the unveiling of the ‘rules’ if you want to survive and the foolish newbies who know not to split up but seriously can’t help themselves."
Universal Pictures
63. Little (2019)
Who's in it? Regina Hall, Issa Rae, Marsai Martin
Run time: 109 minutes
Genre: Comedy, Fantasy
Jordan is a badass businesswoman. That is, until she magically transforms into a 13-year-old version of herself. Sassy attitude included. (Fun fact: It was this movie that earned Martin her historic title as the youngest executive producer in Hollywood history.)
From Badminton to Wrinkle Reduction, These 9 Trends Will be Huge For Teens in 2024
