The 40+ Best New & Recent Teen Movies, Ranked
Photo: Netflix / Warner Bros. Pictures / Netflix

The 40+ Best New & Recent Teen Movies, Ranked

Ranker Film
Updated May 17, 2024 78.3K views 45 items
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28.4K votes
3.3K voters
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Vote up your favorite new teen movies that were released on or after January, 1 2021.

Latest additions: Turtles All The Way Down, Lifemark, The Archies
Most divisive: Missing
Over 3.3K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of Must-See New Teen Movies

The best new teen movies dig deep into the rites of passage, the trials, and tribulations of adolescence, as they resonate with viewers through stories of growth, connection, and self-discovery. Recent movies for teens continue to reflect the breadth and diversity of young adult experiences, tackling everything from the pangs of first love to the complexities of identity formation and the exhilarating freedom of coming of age.

Contemporary teen cinema introduces compelling narratives that appeal to both young audiences and the young at heart. With a focus on authenticity and relatable plotlines, these movies offer a balance of humor, drama, and the all-important life lessons that often accompany the transformative teenage years.

Among these new offerings, we witness a multitude of stories: the comedic adventures of high school misfits aiming for musical glory, the poignant journeys of self-acceptance against societal norms, and the thrilling escapades of teenagers confronting otherworldly threats. These films, such as Metal Lords, The Fallout, and Kids vs. Aliens, exemplify the genre's evolving landscape - one where inclusivity, representation, and modernity are as crucial as the timeless themes they portray.

Each film tells a unique tale yet is united by the universal thread of youth. So, immerse yourself in the emotional rollercoasters of young adulthood through the latest teen movies, and find that, regardless of the storyline, these narratives echo the enduring spirit of what it means to be a teenager.

  • To All the Boys: Always and Forever
    1

    To All the Boys: Always and Forever

    Noah Centineo, Lana Condor, Janel Parrish
    282 votes

    To All the Boys: Always and Forever concludes the endearing story of Lara Jean Covey and Peter Kavinsky with a heartwarming exploration of the challenges and uncertainties faced by teens on the cusp of adulthood. The film skillfully employs the trope of long-distance relationships to examine the competing interests of love and ambition, highlighting the importance of personal growth in the context of teenage romance. Lana Condor and Noah Centineo's palpable chemistry anchors the narrative, imbuing even the most clichéd moments with earnest authenticity. As captivating as its predecessors, To All the Boys: Always and Forever culminates in a resonant farewell to a beloved teen romance saga.

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  • Fear Street: 1994
    2

    Fear Street: 1994

    Kiana Madeira, Olivia Scott Welch, Benjamin Flores
    151 votes

    Fear Street: 1994 expertly balances the thrilling horror of a slasher flick with the emotional depth of a teen drama, immersing viewers in a sinister world where young protagonists must confront their fears and face their pasts. The film pays homage to classic horror tropes while subverting expectations, resulting in a captivating and unpredictable narrative that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats. The ensemble cast of relatable and compelling characters imbues the story with authenticity, tackling themes such as friendship, trust, and survival amidst the adrenaline-pumping terror. Fear Street: 1994 stands out as a unique and engaging addition to the teen movie canon, seamlessly blending horror and coming-of-age elements to deliver a chilling and evocative experience.

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  • Fear Street Part Two: 1978
    3

    Fear Street Part Two: 1978

    Sadie Sink, Emily Rudd, Ryan Simpkins
    140 votes

    Fear Street Part Two: 1978 returns to the sinister world of Shadyside, this time delving into the chilling events that transpired decades earlier at a fateful summer camp. Like its predecessor, this installment expertly balances thrilling horror with compelling teen drama, utilizing the backdrop of a cursed town to explore themes of friendship, family, and survival. The ensemble cast's strong performances bring depth and nuance to their relationships, grounding the supernatural narrative in relatable human emotion. A worthy sequel, Fear Street Part Two: 1978 not only satisfies fans of the first film, but also stands on its own as an engaging and chilling entry in the teen horror genre.

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  • The Fallout
    4

    The Fallout

    Jenna Ortega, Maddie Ziegler, Niles Fitch
    70 votes

    The Fallout tackles the difficult subject of trauma and healing in the aftermath of a school shooting, as it follows a young survivor who grapples with her emotions and builds connections with fellow students to cope. The film sensitively examines themes like grief, resilience, and empathy while highlighting the unique challenges of adolescence in an era marred by tragedy. Jenna Ortega delivers a powerful performance as Vada, and the supporting cast, including Maddie Ziegler and Niles Fitch, infuse the narrative with depth and humanity. In shining a light on the darker aspects of adolescence, The Fallout emerges as a powerful and timely addition to the teen movie canon.

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  • Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret
    5

    Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret

    Rachel McAdams, Abby Ryder Fortson, Elle Graham
    13 votes
    Eleven-year-old Margaret moves to a new town and starts to contemplate everything about life, friendship and adolescence. She relies on her mother, Barbara, who offers loving support, and her grandmother, Sylvia, who's coming to terms with finding happiness in the next phase of her life. Questions of identity, one's place in the world, and what brings meaning to life soon brings them closer together than ever before.
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  • Totally Killer
    6

    Totally Killer

    Kiernan Shipka, Olivia Holt, Julie Bowen
    10 votes
    Thirty-five years after the shocking murders of three teens, an infamous killer returns on Halloween night to claim a fourth victim. When 17-year-old Jamie comes face-to-face with the masked maniac, she accidentally time-travels back to 1987. Forced to navigate the unfamiliar culture, Jamie teams up with her teenage mother to take down the psycho once and for all.
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  • Turtles All The Way Down
    7

    Turtles All The Way Down

    Isabela Merced, Cree Cicchino, Felix Mallard
    5 votes
    A teenager tries to solve a mystery surrounding a fugitive billionaire.
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  • You Are So Not Invited to My Bat Mitzvah
    8

    You Are So Not Invited to My Bat Mitzvah

    Idina Menzel, Jackie Sandler, Adam Sandler
    13 votes
    Stacy and Lydia are BFFs who've always dreamed about having epic bat mitzvahs. However, things start to go comically awry when a popular boy and middle school drama threatens their friendship and their rite of passage.
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  • The Kissing Booth 3
    9

    The Kissing Booth 3

    Joey King, Joel Courtney, Jacob Elordi
    117 votes

    The Kissing Booth 3 concludes the beloved trilogy with a heartfelt and bittersweet tale that captures the trials and tribulations of early adulthood as Elle faces tough decisions about her future. The film balances humor and emotion as it explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and personal growth, showcasing the growth of each character and the bonds that have sustained them throughout their journey. Joey King's engaging performance once again serves as the emotional centerpiece of the narrative, supported by a talented cast that brings depth and humor to their roles. As a satisfying conclusion to a popular teen movie franchise, The Kissing Booth 3 leaves viewers feeling nostalgic, hopeful, and wistful for the adventures of their own youth.

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  • Metal Lords
    10

    Metal Lords

    Jaeden Martell, Isis Hainsworth, Joe Manganiello
    40 votes

    Metal Lords embraces the unapologetic spirit of teenage rebellion and the transformative power of music, as it follows a trio of high school outcasts who form a heavy metal band against all odds. The film thoughtfully explores themes of camaraderie, self-expression, and perseverance, showcasing the importance of staying true to oneself and forging meaningful connections. The engaging and diverse cast brings heart and humor to the narrative, championing the idea that embracing one's passions can lead to personal growth and lasting friendships. As a celebration of individuality and the power of music, Metal Lords strikes a chord with audiences and stands out as a rousing entry in the teen movie canon.

  • Moonshot
    11

    Moonshot

    Zach Braff, Cole Sprouse, Mason Gooding
    41 votes

    Moonshot presents an imaginative and heartfelt exploration of human connection, as two young adults embark on a space-bound journey to reunite with their loved ones. The film thoughtfully weaves together elements of romance, sci-fi, and coming-of-age drama, using the vast expanse of space as a backdrop for the protagonists' emotional growth. Lana Condor and Cole Sprouse deliver captivating performances that capture the vulnerability and resilience of their characters. By transcending the boundaries of Earth, Moonshot offers a unique and moving portrait of adolescence that soars beyond convention.

  • Teen Wolf: The Movie
    12

    Teen Wolf: The Movie

    Tyler Posey, Tyler Hoechlin, Orny Adams
    4 votes
    A terrifying evil has emerged, and the wolves howl once again. Only a Werewolf like Scott McCall can gather both new allies and reunite trusted friends to fight back against what could be the most powerful and deadliest enemy.
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  • Missing
    13

    Missing

    Storm Reid, Joaquim de Almeida, Ken Leung
    6 votes
    When her mother disappears while on vacation in Colombia with her new boyfriend, June's search for answers is hindered by international red tape. Stuck thousands of miles away in Los Angeles, June creatively uses all the latest technology at her fingertips to try and find her before it's too late. However, as she digs ever deeper, her digital sleuthing soon raises more questions than answers.
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  • Hero Mode
    14

    Hero Mode

    Chris Carpenter, Mira Sorvino, Sean Astin
    44 votes

    Hero Mode embraces the challenges and passions of teenage life through the exciting realm of video game design, as a young prodigy attempts to save his family's company by creating an innovative new game. The film thoughtfully delves into themes of ambition, creativity, and teamwork, showcasing the transformative power of collaboration and innovation in overcoming adversity. Sean Astin and Chris Carpenter lead a talented cast that brings humor and heart to the narrative, ensuring that the story resonates with audiences of all ages. By blending elements of comedy, drama, and a love for gaming, Hero Mode establishes itself as an engaging and relatable entry in the teen movie genre.

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  • Mean Girls
    15

    Mean Girls

    Angourie Rice, Reneé Rapp, Auli'i Cravalho
    19 votes
    New student Cady Heron gets welcomed into the top of the social food chain by an elite group of popular girls called the Plastics, ruled by the conniving queen bee Regina George. However, when Cady makes the major misstep of falling for Regina's ex-boyfriend, she soon finds herself caught in their crosshairs.
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  • He's All That
    16

    He's All That

    Addison Rae, Tanner Buchanan, Rachael Leigh Cook
    80 votes

    He's All That puts a modern twist on the classic '90s hit She's All That, as a high school influencer accepts a bet to turn an unpopular classmate into prom king. The film adeptly explores themes of self-discovery, authenticity, and the power of social media while offering a fresh take on the teen movie makeover trope. Addison Rae and Tanner Buchanan excel in their roles, bringing charm and depth to the archetypal characters they inhabit. In its celebration of individuality and genuine connections, He's All That emerges as a delightful and timely spin on the familiar teen rom-com format.

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  • Mixtape
    17

    Mixtape

    Gemma Brooke Allen, Julie Bowen, Audrey Hsieh
    30 votes

    Mixtape delivers a nostalgic and heartfelt exploration of the power of music and self-discovery, as a young girl embarks on a journey to piece together a mixtape left behind by her deceased parents. The film thoughtfully delves into themes of family, connection, and personal growth, showcasing the transformative impact of music on the lives of its characters. Helmed by a captivating performance from Gemma Brooke Allen, the narrative unfolds with tenderness and authenticity, resonating with audiences of all ages. In its celebration of the enduring legacy of 1990s music, Mixtape stands as a poignant and evocative ode to the magic of adolescence.

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  • Tall Girl 2
    18

    Tall Girl 2

    Ava Michelle, Griffin Gluck, Steve Zahn
    83 votes

    Tall Girl 2 continues the uplifting story of Jodi Kreyman as she navigates the ups and downs of high school while grappling with her insecurities about her height. The sequel thoughtfully explores themes of self-acceptance, friendship, and personal growth, building on the empowering message of its predecessor. Ava Michelle's endearing performance is once again at the heart of the narrative, supported by a talented ensemble cast who bring charm and humor to their roles. In its inspiring and uplifting portrayal of teenage resilience, Tall Girl 2 cements its place as a beloved and meaningful entry in the teen movie genre.

  • Skater Girl
    19

    Skater Girl

    Amy Maghera, Waheeda Rehman​, Rachel Saanchita Gupta
    51 votes

    Skater Girl captures the spirit of rebellion and self-expression through the exhilarating world of skateboarding, as it follows a young girl in rural India who defies societal expectations to pursue her passion for the sport. The film thoughtfully delves into themes of empowerment, community, and personal growth, shining a light on the transformative power of skateboarding to change lives. Newcomer Rachel Saanchita Gupta delivers a moving performance as Prerna, supported by a talented ensemble cast that brings authenticity and heart to the narrative. In celebrating the resilience and determination of its young heroine, Skater Girl triumphs as a stirring and poignant entry in the teen movie genre.

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  • Let Us In
    20

    Let Us In

    Sadie Stanley, Siena Agudong, Tobin Bell
    65 votes
    A 12-year-old girl is determined to uncover who or what is behind the rash of disappearances occurring in her small town.
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  • My Fault
    21

    My Fault

    Nicole Wallace, Gabriel Guevara, Marta Hazas
    7 votes
    Noah moves into her stepmother's mansion and falls for Nick, her stepbrother.
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  • First Date
    22

    First Date

    Tyson Brown, Shelby Duclos, Jesse Janzen
    62 votes

    First Date masterfully captures the quintessential teen experience by weaving a tale of excitement, adventure, and budding romance while staying true to the classic tropes and ideologies of teen movies. This coming-of-age story follows a high schooler seeking to impress his crush on their first date, but the night takes an unexpected turn when he gets pulled into a dangerous world of crime. The film showcases relatable teenage angst, earnest attempts at navigating the complexities of young love, and the search for an identity, all while maintaining an engaging narrative full of thrilling twists and turns. In doing so, First Date elevates itself into the ranks of best new teen movies by grounding its characters in the universal experiences of adolescence with a backdrop of fast-paced action and suspense.

  • Along for the Ride
    23

    Along for the Ride

    Belmont Cameli, Andie MacDowell, Dermot Mulroney
    24 votes
    During the summer before college, Auden meets the mysterious Eli, a fellow insomniac. While the seaside town of Colby sleeps, the two embark on nightly quests to help Auden experience the fun, carefree life she never knew she wanted.
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  • Sex Appeal
    24

    Sex Appeal

    Mika Abdalla, Jake Short, Mason Versaw
    28 votes
    A teen tests her sex appeal on her oldest friend when her long-distance boyfriend wants to take their relationship to the next level.
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  • Everybody's Talking About Jamie
    25

    Everybody's Talking About Jamie

    Max Harwood, Sarah Lancashire, Lauren Patel
    26 votes
    Jamie New is a 16-year-old who doesn't quite fit in. Instead of pursuing a traditional career, he dreams of becoming a drag queen. Uncertain about his future, Jamie knows one thing for sure -- he's going to be a sensation. Supported by his loving mother and amazing friends, Jamie overcomes discrimination and bullying to step out of the darkness -- and into the spotlight.
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  • Snack Shack
    26

    Snack Shack

    Conor Sherry, Gabriel LaBelle, Mika Abdalla
    5 votes
    Dreaming of striking it rich, inseparable best friends AJ and Moose seize the opportunity to run the local pool's rundown snack shack. However, things take an unexpected turn when they meet Brooke, an effortlessly cool lifeguard who puts their big summer plans -- and friendship -- at risk.
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  • Sick
    27

    Sick

    Gideon Adlon, Bethlehem Million, Dylan Sprayberry
    5 votes
    Sick unfolds as a slasher film set against the backdrop of the Covid-19 pandemic. Directed by John Hyams, the film cleverly leverages the real-world fears and anxieties of the period. As the virus grasps the globe, two friends, Parker (Gideon Adlon) and Miri (Bethlehem Million), decide to quarantine at a family lake house, seeking safety. Their isolated refuge is soon breached by a masked intruder, turning their lockdown into a desperate fight for survival. With a fusion of social commentary and horror, Sick presents a harrowing storyline interwoven with the tension of an unfolding global crisis, capturing a snapshot of contemporary fears.
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  • See You on Venus
    28

    See You on Venus

    Ginny Gardner, Alex Aiono, Rob Estes
    4 votes
    Two misfit American teens fall in love while traveling through Spain to find one's birth mother.
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  • Shoplifters of the World
    29

    Shoplifters of the World

    Helena Howard, Ellar Coltrane, Joe Manganiello
    23 votes
    During the summer of 1987, four friends embark on a night of partying to mourn the sudden breakup of the British band The Smiths. At the same time, an impassioned fan takes a disc jockey hostage and forces him to play nothing but Smiths tracks.
  • The Hand of God
    30

    The Hand of God

    Filippo Scotti, Toni Servillo, Teresa Saponangelo
    15 votes
    The Hand of God is an Italian drama directed by Paolo Sorrentino, providing a deeply personal narrative set against the backdrop of 1980s Naples. The story centers around Fabietto Schisa, a young man coming of age amidst personal tragedy and the vibrant chaos of his city. The film is steeped in themes of fate, family, and the inexplicable moments that shape our lives. As Fabietto navigates love, loss, and the allure of cinema, his journey is marked by the football triumphs of Diego Maradona - the "hand of God" offering both a miraculous highlight and a metaphor for life's capricious nature. The Hand of God garnered critical acclaim, including an Academy Award nomination for Best International Feature Film.
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