The classic “Coming-of-age” genre gains a fresh take in portraying a new stage of life. As the idea of emerging adulthood becomes centered around young adults, we see more movies reflect that.
Emerging adulthood happens between ages 18 to 29 and symbolizes an “in-between” phase of a person’s life, where lingering factors of adolescence begin to feel the weight of adult responsibility. Because of social and economic changes in Western society, this phase is becoming more apparent.
From “The Outsiders” to “Lady Bird,” stories that focus on the transition between adolescence and adulthood have become a favorite for audiences of all ages. As a part of a human’s natural development, this milestone is bound to happen to us all, making for relatable plotlines that can take many different routes.
However, this kind of maturation can happen later for some for a multitude of reasons. Solely looking at age in human development does not take into account other factors that affect levels of maturity, such as home dynamics, trauma or simply not knowing what you want in life.
Coming-of-age for young adults may seem like an oxymoron, but in the context of the following films, it makes sense.
Frances Ha (2012)
This film has been considered a classic in the mumblecore genre, which places emphasis on authentic dialogue. Directed by Noah Baumbach, the film follows Frances, played by Greta Gerwig, a 27-year-old New Yorker who is somewhat of a dancer and trying to stay afloat. Frances’s peers are getting married, establishing their careers and traveling, while she’s just being Frances– single, stagnant and slightly stubborn.
Funny in nature, this film may just seem like a near hour and a half of a woman spiraling into her own inexperienced delusion. However, her maturation brings comfort to those unsure what life will look like after college.
The King of Staten Island (2020)
Scott Carlin, played by Pete Davidson, is a 24-year-old aspiring tattoo artist who is a high school drop-out, lives with his mother and has never held a girlfriend. His immaturity can be traced back to the childhood loss of his father in the line of duty as a firefighter, which left him emotionally stunted.
Directed by Judd Apatow and loosely based on the life of Davidson, the film is a perfect example of how trauma can derail a person’s development. Yet, his eventual “coming-of-age,” accompanied by Kid Cudi’s “Pursuit of Happiness,” makes this comedy unexpectedly emotional and is a testament to everything being okay with time.
The Worst Person in the World (2021)
In this Norwegian film directed by Joachim Trier, Julie is pushing 30 years of age and cannot land on what her life is meant to be. She has a troubled love life, and her career path becomes limited as she switches from studying medicine to psychology before finally landing on photography.
This film highlights the beauty of taking agency in life. Julie’s maturation is notable by the peace she makes with her decisions, regardless of whether they are right or wrong.
“Priscilla” (2023)
Sofia Coppola’s most recent film tells the story of Priscilla Beaulieu-Presley, the 14-year-old turned Elvis Presley’s bride. It chronicles Priscilla’s entire relationship with Elvis, who served as both a lover and father figure to her.
Once Priscilla finally realizes that her long-term relationship does not serve her, she is free to become a person of her own at age 28. Based on the bestselling memoir “Elvis and Me,” this film emphasizes late maturation due to a dire circumstance.