Ah, the exhilarating leap into adulthood! Turning 18 marks a pivotal moment in everyone’s life, filled with dreams, challenges, and newfound freedom. In this electrifying list, we present the top 9 movies that perfectly capture the thrills, complexities, and rollercoaster ride of entering the realm of adulthood. From unforgettable coming-of-age stories to daring adventures and heartfelt explorations, these films will ignite your spirit, make you reminisce, and perhaps even inspire you on your own journey towards self-discovery. Get ready to relish in the joys, uncertainties, and endless possibilities that await in this celebration of the exhilarating passage into adulthood!
American Pie
Release date: 1999-07-09
In “American Pie” (1999), a group of high school friends makes a pact to lose their virginity by prom night. This raunchy comedy follows their hilarious and often embarrassing attempts to fulfill their teenage desires. From the iconic pie scene to the memorable quote “This one time, at band camp,” this film is a wild ride of teenage antics and sexual exploration. With its relatable coming-of-age story and outrageous humor, “American Pie” earns its spot on the list of movies about turning 18. It perfectly captures the thrills and awkwardness of entering adulthood, reminding us of our own awkward teenage years. Whether you’re reminiscing about your own experiences or just looking for a laugh, “American Pie” is a must-watch for anyone seeking a nostalgic and hilarious trip down memory lane.
Superbad
Release date: 2007-03-20
In “Superbad” (2007), three high school seniors embark on a wild adventure to obtain alcohol for a party, leading them to hilarious and outrageous encounters along the way. This coming-of-age comedy explores the ups and downs of friendship, love, and the anxieties of growing up. From unforgettable moments like McLovin’s fake ID mishaps to Seth’s iconic declaration of friendship, “I love you, man!” – “Superbad” is a riotous ride filled with laugh-out-loud moments and endearing characters. With its raunchy humor and heartfelt moments, this film perfectly captures the excitement and recklessness of turning 18. “Superbad” is a must-watch for anyone looking for a hilarious and relatable take on the transition to adulthood. Its unique blend of comedy and heart makes it a standout film in the genre, making it a perfect addition to our list of movies that capture the thrills of turning 18. Get ready to laugh, cringe, and reminisce about your own wild teenage adventures with this comedy gem.
Clueless
Release date: 1995-07-19
In “Clueless” (1995), Cher Horowitz, a fashionable and popular high school student, navigates the complex world of adolescence as she approaches her 18th birthday. With her witty charm and impeccable fashion sense, Cher takes on the role of matchmaker, helping her friends find love while discovering the true meaning of friendship and self-discovery. From Cher’s iconic yellow plaid outfits to her memorable catchphrases like “As if!” and “Whatever,” “Clueless” is a delightful comedy filled with hilarious moments and unforgettable quotes. Cher’s journey of self-realization and her transformation from a shallow teenager to a compassionate and caring young woman will leave you inspired and entertained. “Clueless” is a must-watch movie about coming of age and the excitement of turning 18. Its timeless humor, relatable characters, and vibrant fashion make it a classic in the genre. Whether you’re reminiscing about your own teenage years or discovering this gem for the first time, “Clueless” will capture your heart and remind you of the joys and challenges of entering adulthood.
Lady Bird
Release date: 2017-09-01
In “Lady Bird” (2017), Christine “Lady Bird” McPherson navigates her final year of high school, filled with dreams of escaping her small town and attending college on the East Coast. This coming-of-age tale explores the complexities of mother-daughter relationships, first loves, and the pursuit of independence. Notable scenes include Lady Bird’s rebellious acts against her strict Catholic school, her hilarious and heartfelt conversations with her best friend, and her bittersweet moments with her loving but opinionated mother. The movie is also filled with memorable quotes like Lady Bird’s declaration, “I hate California, I want to go to the East Coast. I want to go where culture is, like New York.” Included in the list for capturing the thrills of adulthood, “Lady Bird” is a relatable and honest portrayal of the challenges and joys of transitioning into adulthood. It beautifully captures the universal desire for self-discovery and the longing for something bigger than the world we grew up in. Watch “Lady Bird” for a nostalgic and heartfelt journey that will resonate with anyone who has ever dreamed of breaking free.
Blockers
Release date: 2018-03-14
In “Blockers,” three parents embark on a wild and hilarious mission to stop their daughters from losing their virginity on prom night. As they frantically try to sabotage their daughters’ plans, they confront their own anxieties about letting go of their children and facing the challenges of adulthood. This coming-of-age comedy is filled with memorable moments, including a raunchy game of beer pong and an epic car chase. The standout performance from John Cena as an overprotective father adds to the film’s comedic value. “Blockers” is a must-see for anyone who has experienced the joys and anxieties of growing up. This film offers a fresh and funny take on the coming-of-age genre, and its themes of parental love and letting go make it a standout addition to our list of movies about turning 18.
Sixteen Candles
Release date: 1984-05-04
In “Sixteen Candles” (1984), Samantha’s sixteenth birthday is overshadowed by her sister’s upcoming wedding, leaving her feeling forgotten and invisible. As she navigates the ups and downs of high school life, Samantha discovers unexpected romance with Jake Ryan, the popular senior who becomes the object of her affection. Notable scenes include Samantha’s embarrassing encounter with her grandparents, the iconic final moments where Jake waits for her outside the church, and the hilarious and heartwarming interactions with her quirky family. Memorable quotes include Samantha’s lament, “I can’t believe I gave my panties to a geek,” and Jake’s swoon-worthy line, “I could get a piece of ass anytime I want. Shit, I got Caroline in the bedroom right now, passed out cold.” “Sixteen Candles” captures the essence of turning 18, with its relatable coming-of-age story and memorable characters. It explores the joys and challenges of adolescence, as Samantha learns to embrace her own unique journey. This classic John Hughes film is a must-watch for anyone seeking a nostalgic and heartfelt portrayal of the thrills and tribulations of entering adulthood.
Booksmart
Release date: 2019-05-24
“Booksmart” (2019) is a coming-of-age comedy that follows best friends Amy and Molly, who have always been focused on their studies. Determined to have one wild night before graduation, they embark on a hilarious adventure to attend a high school party. Along the way, they discover that there’s more to life than just books and realize the importance of friendship and embracing their true selves. Notable scenes include Amy and Molly’s wild night filled with unexpected encounters and outrageous antics. One iconic quote from the movie is when Molly says, “We have to go to the party. We spent our entire high school career being the ‘good’ girls. We’ve never broken a rule in our lives!” This line perfectly captures their desire for a taste of freedom and the excitement of stepping out of their comfort zones. “Booksmart” is included in the article because it beautifully captures the exhilaration and challenges of turning 18 and stepping into adulthood. It explores the complexities of friendship, self-discovery, and the importance of embracing new experiences. With its clever humor, relatable characters, and heartwarming moments, “Booksmart” is a must-watch for anyone looking for a hilarious and heartfelt coming-of-age story.
The Edge of Seventeen
Release date: 2016-11-18
“The Edge of Seventeen” (2016) follows the turbulent life of Nadine, a high school student navigating the challenges of adolescence. When her best friend starts dating her older brother, Nadine feels even more isolated. As she tries to find her place in the world, she forms an unexpected bond with her teacher, Mr. Bruner. This coming-of-age film captures the essence of teenage angst with its authentic portrayal of the struggles and insecurities faced during this pivotal stage of life. The movie features memorable scenes like Nadine’s hilarious and awkward encounters, as well as her heartfelt conversations with Mr. Bruner, who offers her guidance and support. “The Edge of Seventeen” is included in the list for its relatable and honest depiction of the challenges faced by teenagers transitioning into adulthood. With its sharp writing, strong performances, and heartfelt moments, this film is a must-watch for anyone looking to reminisce about the thrill and uncertainty of turning 18.
The Half of It
Release date: 2020-05-01
In “The Half of It,” released in 2020, high school senior Ellie Chu finds herself caught in a love triangle when a popular jock asks her to write love letters to his crush. As Ellie navigates her own feelings for the girl, she discovers the power of friendship and the complexities of love. Notable scenes include Ellie and Aster’s heartfelt conversations through the letters, where they explore their hopes and dreams. Iconic quotes like “You can’t write a letter about love without using the word ‘love'” resonate with viewers, capturing the essence of the movie’s exploration of love, friendship, and self-discovery. Included in the list of movies about turning 18, “The Half of It” showcases the journey of a young adult as she grapples with her identity and emotions. The movie’s refreshing take on teenage romance and its exploration of LGBTQ+ themes make it a must-watch for those seeking a heartfelt coming-of-age story that captures the thrills and challenges of adulthood.
