Immerse yourself in the sun-soaked nostalgia of 1973 with Paul Thomas Anderson’s film Licorice Pizza, a charming portrayal of adolescence unfolding in the San Fernando Valley. Following the delightfully spirited journey of young Gary Valentine, a teen actor, and Alana Kane, a photographer’s assistant in her twenties, we’re treated to the pair’s flourishing friendship and waterbed business venture. The film brilliantly captures their evolving connection, enhanced by wonderfully crafted on-screen dialogues, as they navigate the trying and often amusing challenges posed by the dubious film industry. Alongside an impressive cast, including the likes of Sean Penn, Tom Waits, and Bradley Cooper portraying producer Jon Peters, the movie paints a vivid picture of the era, complete with period-authentic style and real-life Hollywood personas. Below are six more coming-of-age films that whisk you back with their wistful ambiance.
Mid90s
Jonah Hill takes a dip into his own past with mid90s, a comedic and touching look at Los Angeles in the 90s. We follow 13-year-old Stevie as he flees the turmoil of his home life to join a group of skaters, forming friendships that redefine his youth. As the skater boys introduce him to a world of thrills and freedom, we watch Stevie open up like a flower in the sun, sharing in their camaraderie. The film mixes nostalgic skateboarding scenes with moments where its characters bask in the golden hour, all while exploring the deep, contemplative side of their teenage dreams.
The Perks of Being a Wallflower
In a heartfelt adaptation of Stephen Chbosky’s novel, The Perks of Being a Wallflower invites us into the world of Charlie, grappling with loss and loneliness. Through soul-baring journal entries, we experience Charlie’s inner turmoil as he finds solace and acceptance among new friends during his high school journey. The stark contrast of Charlie’s solitary musings against the backdrop of teenage rebellion and celebration makes the tale a poignant tapestry of youthful optimism and the shadows that often accompany growing up.
Lady Bird
In Greta Gerwig’s Lady Bird, we explore the tenuous yet deeply-rooted bond between Christine “Lady Bird” McPherson and her mother. Set against the backdrop of Sacramento and imbued with a spirit that is both passionate and rebellious, the film beautifully captures the humor and drama of teenage aspirations and anguishes. Through her yearning for new horizons and the push-and-pull with her mother, Lady Bird’s journey resonates with the warm glow of yesteryears, painting a picture of that delicate cusp between adolescence and adulthood.
Flipped
From the insightful mind of Rob Reiner comes Flipped, a tale spun from the pages of Wendelin Van Draanen’s novel. In this tender narrative of first love, Juli and Bryce navigate divergent paths from childhood to teenage years, offering an intimate glance into their evolving perspectives. The film gracefully carries us through their formative moments, showcasing the clashing ideologies of their families. Set in an idyllic suburbia, Flipped explores the innocence of youth and the layers of nuance found within the heart.
Boogie Nights
In another San Fernando Valley saga, Paul Thomas Anderson’s Boogie Nights dances through the vibrant and seedy underbelly of the 70s adult film scene. As the high school dropout-turned-adult star, Eddie Adams finds fame, love, and loss. This film basks in the disco-infused revelry of an era while not shying away from the grittier side of chasing dreams by night. Boogie Nights is nothing short of a stylish, evocative trip down a memory lane lined with neon lights and towering ambitions.
Almost Famous
Embark on a rock and roll odyssey with Cameron Crowe’s Almost Famous. Through the eyes of 15-year-old William Miller, an aspiring journalist, we get a backstage pass to the turbulent world of ’70s rock. Surrounded by the sounds of a bygone era and bustling with the fervor of youth, William’s journey teeters between longing for recognition and the tenderness of a boy on the brink of manhood. Every scene, relished with the warmth of the past, cements its place as a cinematic ballad to the bygone days of summer vibes and rock legends.