As mentioned, most movie themes encompass universal experiences, and few experiences are more universal than that of growing up with all the awkward, angsty and otherwise awful events and emotions that go along with it.
No matter where a person lives, what their obstacles are or how they deal with them, the coming of age story2 is one that many people can relate to regardless of their personal unique circumstances. But as with many movie themes, the coming of age story can be told in a variety of ways, such as through humor, drama, flashback, ensemble or a single protagonist’s point of view.
Writer Shayne Anderson discusses the role that this theme played in his work: “When writing my script, I was aware of a theme. It was apparent early on the story I wanted to tell revolved around a family. Not only a biological one but a family at the school. Friendship as family.”
Examples: Boyz in the Hood, The Breakfast Club, Lady Bird, The Outsiders, Rebel Without a Cause, Stand By Me, Superbad.