The Funniest Coming of Age Movies
The best coming of age comedy movies are extremely relatable. They hilariously capture the awkwardness of adolescence, making us feel like someone else understands the struggles and issues that young people deal with. Funny movies about growing up give us characters who seem like us, dealing with situations we have probably dealt within our own lives. And they do this while making us laugh ourselves silly. The greatest ones, like Ferris Bueller's Day Off and Clueless, have become certified classics.
It's time to determine the funniest coming of age comedy so be sure to vote up your top picks. If you notice any awesome bildungsroman comedies that have been left out, add them to the list so that other users can weigh in.
- 1Jonah Hill, Michael Cera, Christopher Mintz-Plasse
This uproarious film follows two socially awkward teenagers who desperately try to make their last high school party memorable by purchasing alcohol for the event. As they embark on a wild and chaotic journey, the friends navigate through bizarre encounters, the law, and their own adolescent anxieties. Audiences have adored this movie for its humorous portrayal of teen friendship and the often absurd struggles that accompany growing up.
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- 2Jason London, Wiley Wiggins, Sasha Jenson
Set in the 1970s, this cult classic captures the essence of teen life during the era, complete with its unforgettable fashion, music, and lingo. The movie follows various groups of students, from incoming freshmen to outgoing seniors, as they celebrate the last day of school while navigating teenage rivalries, crushes, and parties. With its ensemble cast and relatable situations, the film has endured with fans of all ages who appreciate its ability to capture the spirit of adolescence.
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- 3Emilio Estevez, Molly Ringwald, Judd Nelson
Five students with seemingly nothing in common are forced to spend a Saturday in detention together in this iconic John Hughes film. As the hours pass, the teens begin to break down their social barriers and connect through shared experiences, confessions, and laughter. With its realistic portrayal of adolescent struggles and witty humor, this classic has endeared itself to generation after generation.
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- 4Jason Biggs, Shannon Elizabeth, Alyson Hannigan
A group of high school friends make a pact to lose their virginity by prom night in this hilarious and raunchy film that has become a cultural phenomenon. The movie follows each friend's unique journey toward that goal, featuring unforgettable characters and iconic scenes involving pies, webcams, and the infamous Stifler's mom. Despite its crude humor, the film offers a glimpse into the pressures and insecurities teenagers face as they reach the end of their high school years.
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- 5Heath Ledger, Julia Stiles, Joseph Gordon-Levitt
In this modern adaptation of Shakespeare's Taming of the Shrew, a high school student attempts to woo a feisty feminist to win a bet and help his friend date her younger sister. Along the way, the characters learn valuable lessons about love, self-worth, and the pressures of fitting in. Known for its witty dialogue and memorable performances, this film has earned a beloved place in the hearts of audiences everywhere.
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- 6Sean Penn, Jennifer Jason Leigh, Judge Reinhold
Taking a candid look at the lives of California teenagers, this iconic film explores the ups and downs of high school, from burgeoning romances to part-time jobs and everything in between. With memorable characters like Spicoli and Damone, the film delivers a hilarious – and often brutally honest – portrayal of adolescence in the early 1980s. Fans appreciate its relatable situations, sharp wit, and stellar ensemble cast.
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- 7Alicia Silverstone, Stacey Dash, Brittany Murphy
This modern adaptation of Jane Austen's Emma follows a wealthy and superficial high school girl as she navigates the social hierarchy of Beverly Hills. Along the way, she faces unexpected friendships, romantic entanglements, and revelations about her own character. With its witty dialogue, colorful characters, and iconic fashion, this movie has become a beloved classic in the genre.
- 8Elliot Page, Michael Cera, Jennifer Garner
An unexpectedly pregnant teenager decides to give her baby up for adoption in this clever and poignant film. Filled with quirky characters, witty dialogue, and heart-warming moments, the movie showcases the protagonist's journey as she navigates the complexities of her situation and forms an unlikely bond with the adoptive parents. This film's unique blend of humor and sincerity has resonated with audiences, securing its status as a beloved modern classic.
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- 9Lindsay Lohan, Rachel McAdams, Tina Fey
When a teenager raised in Africa enters an American high school, she's quickly drawn into the cliques and social games that come with it. As she rises to popularity among the school's "mean girls," she begins to lose sight of her true identity. This sharp-witted film has become a cultural touchstone for its memorable one-liners, relatable themes, and iconic characters.
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- 10Molly Ringwald, Jon Cryer, Andrew McCarthy
Another beloved John Hughes film, this movie follows a working-class girl torn between her childhood friend and a wealthy admirer as she navigates the complexities of high school social dynamics. With its memorable fashion, iconic soundtrack, and heartfelt performances, the film has become a touchstone for fans of the genre. Its exploration of class, friendship, and young love continues to resonate with audiences decades after its release.
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- 11Steve Carell, Toni Collette, Allison Janney
A shy 14-year-old finds solace and friendship at a local water park during a summer vacation with his mother and her overbearing boyfriend. The film's gentle humor and heart-warming moments showcase the challenges of finding one's place in the world while dealing with the pressures of family dynamics. With its endearing characters and touching story, this movie holds a special place in the hearts of audiences.
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- 12Emma Stone, Penn Badgley, Amanda Bynes
Inspired by The Scarlet Letter, this sharp-witted film follows a high school girl who pretends to be promiscuous in order to boost her social standing. However, the plan backfires, leading her to learn valuable lessons about gossip, reputation, and self-respect. This film's clever dialogue, strong performances, and humorous take on high school life have made it a standout in the genre.
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- 13Jesse Eisenberg, Kristen Stewart, Martin Starr
Set in the 1980s, this dramedy features a recent college graduate who takes a summer job at a run-down amusement park to escape his uncertain future. There, he forms new friendships, learns about love, and comes to terms with his own shortcomings. The film is widely praised for its nostalgic atmosphere, relatable characters, and engaging mix of humor and heart.
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- 14Molly Ringwald, Anthony Michael Hall, Michael Schoeffling
John Hughes' directorial debut focuses on a teenager whose family forgets her sixteenth birthday amidst the chaos of her sister's wedding, leading her to navigate the trials of adolescence on her own. Along the way, she deals with unrequited love, embarrassing encounters, and unexpected friendships. This flick has charmed generations with its timeless portrayal of the hopes, fears, and dreams that accompany turning sixteen.
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- 15Jon Heder, Jon Gries, Aaron Ruell
Featuring an endearingly bizarre protagonist, this quirky film chronicles the life of an awkward high schooler as he navigates the trials and tribulations of small-town Idaho life. Filled with idiosyncratic characters, offbeat humor, and unforgettable dance moves, the movie has become a cult classic in its own right. Fans adore its unique charm, quotable lines, and unabashed embrace of the outsider.
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- 16Kaitlyn Dever, Beanie Feldstein, Jessica Williams
Two high-achieving best friends realize they've missed out on the typical high school experience, so they decide to cram four years' worth of fun into one wild night. As they navigate a series of misadventures and unexpected encounters, they learn about the limits of their friendship and the importance of living in the moment. This fresh and intelligent film showcases both the hilarity and the emotional depth that can arise during such a pivotal time in life.
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- 17Hailee Steinfeld, Haley Lu Richardson, Blake Jenner
In this brutally honest and witty film, a high school junior grapples with the loss of her best friend, who starts dating her older brother. As she tries to navigate the loneliness and challenges that follow, she forms an unconventional friendship with an equally awkward teacher. Audiences appreciate this movie for its candid portrayal of adolescent struggles, relatable dialogue, and heartfelt moments.
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- 18Saoirse Ronan, Laurie Metcalf, Timothée Chalamet
Set in early 2000s Sacramento, this film follows a strong-willed and opinionated teenager as she navigates her senior year of high school, applying to colleges and clashing with her equally strong-willed mother. The movie blends humor and poignancy as it captures the protagonist's journey of self-discovery, first loves, and the strains of familial relationships. Its authenticity and grounded performances have earned it widespread praise and ardent fans.
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- 19Winona Ryder, Christian Slater, Shannen Doherty
Set in a darkly satirical version of high school life, this film follows a popular girl who grows disillusioned with her clique of mean-spirited friends, leading her into dangerous territory with a mysterious new student. The film's razor-sharp wit, unforgettable one-liners, and biting social commentary have made it a cult classic. Despite its dark subject matter, the movie remains lauded as a unique and memorable portrayal of teenage life.
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- 20Anthony LaPaglia, Rory Cochrane, Johnny Whitworth
Set in an independent record store, this ensemble dramedy follows a group of quirky employees as they bond, bicker, and navigate the challenges of young adulthood. Filled with memorable characters, great music, and heartfelt moments, the film offers a nostalgic look at the 1990s alternative scene. Its enduring cult status is a testament to its unique appeal and timeless exploration of friendship and self-discovery.
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- 21Patrick Dempsey, Amanda Peterson, Courtney Gains
A nerdy high school student pays a popular cheerleader to be his girlfriend in hopes of boosting his own social status in this endearing and entertaining film. As the unlikely pair navigate their fake relationship, they learn valuable lessons about love, acceptance, and the pitfalls of superficiality. Though released decades ago, the movie's blend of humor, heart, and relatable themes has continued to resonate with audiences.
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- 22Tom Guiry, Mike Vitar, Patrick Renna
A group of young baseball enthusiasts navigates the ups and downs of friendship and growing up in this beloved film. Memorable characters, humorous situations, and the iconic phrase "You're killing me, Smalls!" have solidified its status as a classic. With its heartwarming story and nostalgic setting, this movie has become an enduring favorite for fans of all ages.
- 23John Cusack, Ione Skye, John Mahoney
In this iconic romantic comedy, a lovable underachiever pursues his high school valedictorian after their unlikely romance blossoms at graduation. Filled with memorable moments, witty dialogue, and heartfelt performances, the movie has become a beloved classic that explores the complexities of young love, social expectations, and the challenge of following one's heart. Its enduring appeal can be attributed to its timeless themes, engaging characters, and its unforgettable boombox serenade.
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- 24John Cusack, Diane Franklin, David Ogden Stiers
In this darkly comedic film, a teenager becomes convinced that taking his own life is the only solution to his myriad problems, which include unrequited love and a persistent paperboy. However, various comedic misadventures and an unexpected romance teach him that there's more to life than teenage heartbreak. With its offbeat humor, memorable characters, and unique take on the coming-of-age genre, this movie has earned a devoted following.
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- 25Pete Davidson, Griffin Gluck, Jon Cryer
A teenager develops a close friendship with his older sister's charming but wayward ex-boyfriend, learning lessons about friendship, responsibility, and growing up along the way. This coming-of-age tale is filled with emotionally resonant moments and laugh-out-loud humor, making it a standout in the genre. With strong performances and authentic character dynamics, this film strikes a chord with audiences of all ages.
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- 26Billy Crudup, Frances McDormand, Kate Hudson
Set in the early 1970s, this semi-autobiographical film follows a teenage journalist as he goes on tour with an up-and-coming rock band, chronicling their adventures and navigating his own coming-of-age. Featuring a memorable ensemble cast, unforgettable music, and poignant storytelling, the movie has earned cult status as an evocative and bittersweet ode to youth. Its emotionally resonant exploration of adolescence, fame, and the love of music has endeared it to generations of fans.
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- 27Jacob Tremblay, Keith L. Williams, Brady Noon
This raucous comedy centers around three sixth-grade boys who embark on a wild adventure to replace a broken drone and learn about adolescent rites of passage along the way. Hilarious misadventures, outrageous situations, and endearing friendships make this film an entertaining romp that explores the challenges of growing up. Its blend of crude humor and heartfelt moments has resonated with audiences, making it a standout entry in the genre.
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- 28Tom Hanks, Elizabeth Perkins, Robert Loggia
A 12-year-old boy makes a wish to be "big" and wakes up as a 30-year-old man in this heartwarming and hilarious film. As he navigates the adult world, he learns important lessons about responsibility, friendship, and the value of childhood innocence. With its clever premise and endearing protagonist, this movie has become a beloved classic that still resonates with audiences today.
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- 29Sunny Suljic, Lucas Hedges, Na-kel Smith
This nostalgic drama, set in 1990s Los Angeles, follows a 13-year-old boy who finds solace and camaraderie among a group of skateboarders. As he immerses himself in their world, he learns about friendship, loyalty, and the challenges of growing up. With its authentic depiction of '90s skate culture and poignant coming-of-age story, the film has struck a chord with audiences and critics alike.
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- 30Richard Dreyfuss, Ron Howard, Paul Le Mat
Set in the early 1960s, this nostalgic film chronicles one night in the lives of a group of teenagers as they cruise around town, flirt, and ponder their futures. Featuring a star-studded ensemble cast and a memorable soundtrack, the movie offers a charming glimpse into a bygone era. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its relatable themes, engaging performances, and warm, nostalgic atmosphere.
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