Teen-friendly Flicks: Top 100 Films for Family Movie Night

I’ve found that there’s nothing quite like settling down for a movie night with the family. 

When you’re looking to bridge that gap between the teenage years and adulthood, films offer a common ground where we can all laugh, cry, and even learn from one another. 

This curated collection of movies spans a multitude of genres, ensuring that no matter your teen’s taste, there’s a film to match. 

From the timeless appeal of classics to the modern beats of today’s cinematic triumphs, we’ve included films from every era that speak to the young (and the young at heart). 

Award-Winning Journeys

The Sound of Music (1965): A musical masterpiece about a young aspiring nun who becomes the governess to a widowed naval captain’s seven children, bringing love, music, and joy back into their lives. Winner of five Oscars.

Forrest Gump (1994): A heartwarming tale of a man with a low IQ who inadvertently influences several defining moments in American history, showcasing the power of kindness, love, and the extraordinary in the ordinary. Winner of six Oscars, including Best Picture.

Good Will Hunting (1997): A drama about a janitor at MIT with an innate genius for mathematics, his struggles with personal demons, and the transformative impact of a caring therapist (played by Robin Williams). Won two Oscars, including Best Original Screenplay.

Saving Private Ryan (1998): A powerful war film that follows a group of soldiers sent to find and bring home a paratrooper whose brothers have been killed in action during World War II. Winner of five Oscars.

A Beautiful Mind (2001): A biographical drama depicting the life of mathematician John Nash, exploring his genius, struggles with mental illness, and his triumph over adversity. Winner of four Oscars, including Best Picture.

The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (2003): An epic fantasy adventure concluding the trilogy, it follows Frodo’s quest to destroy the One Ring while the forces of good and evil clash in a breathtaking battle for Middle-earth. Winner of 11 Oscars.

Teen Coming-of-Age

The Sandlot (1993): A nostalgic coming-of-age story set in the summer of 1962, following a group of young boys and their adventures on the local sandlot baseball field.

Mr. Holland’s Opus (1995): A touching drama about a high school music teacher, Mr. Holland, who discovers his true legacy as he reflects on a lifetime of impacting students through the power of music.

Now and Then (1995): A nostalgic coming-of-age film that follows a group of friends who reunite as adults and reminisce about their unforgettable childhood adventures.

10 Things I Hate About You (1999): A modern adaptation of Shakespeare’s “The Taming of the Shrew,” set in a high school and featuring a quirky romance. Staring Heath Ledger. 

Pay It Forward (2000): A drama about a young boy’s idea to change the world through acts of kindness, inspiring a ripple effect of positive actions.

Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants (2005): A heartwarming story about four friends who share a pair of magical jeans during their first summer apart, discovering the power of true friendship.

She’s The Man (2006): A modern adaptation of Shakespeare’s “Twelfth Night,” featuring a girl who disguises herself as her twin brother to play on the boys’ soccer team.

Juno (2007): A witty and heartfelt comedy-drama about a teenage girl navigating an unplanned pregnancy and the complexities of adoption.

(500) Days of Summer (2009): A nonlinear romantic drama exploring the highs and lows of a relationship, told through the lens of 500 days.

Perks of Being a Wallflower (2012): A coming-of-age drama about a shy high school freshman navigating friendship, love, and mental health challenges.

The Way, Way Back (2013): A coming-of-age comedy-drama about a shy teenager’s transformative summer vacation, finding himself through unexpected friendships.

Boyhood (2014): A groundbreaking coming-of-age film shot over 12 years, chronicling the life and growth of a boy named Mason from childhood to adulthood.

The Fault in Our Stars (2014): A poignant romantic drama based on John Green’s novel; it follows the love story between two teenagers who meet in a cancer support group.

Inside Out (2015): An animated adventure set inside the mind of a young girl, personifying her emotions as characters who guide her through the challenges of growing up.

La La Land (2016): A musical romance that follows the love story between a jazz musician and an aspiring actress in the vibrant backdrop of Los Angeles.

The Edge of Seventeen (2016): A coming-of-age comedy-drama that follows a high school junior navigating the challenges of friendship, family, and self-discovery.

Lady Bird (2017): A coming-of-age comedy-drama about a high school senior navigating her relationships with family, friends, and her own identity.

Dumplin (2018): A feel-good film about a plus-size teenager who enters a beauty pageant, challenging conventional standards and embracing self-acceptance.

Booksmart (2019): A coming-of-age comedy about two high-achieving best friends who decide to let loose on the eve of their high school graduation.

Barbie (2023): A fantasy comedy film where Barbie must travel to the human world to understand herself and discover her true purpose.

Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret. (2023): A film adaptation of Judy Blume’s beloved novel, exploring the challenges and triumphs of adolescence and self-discovery.

Teen Drama and Adventure

If You Could See What I Hear (1982): A biographical drama based on the life of blind musician Tom Sullivan, exploring his triumphs and challenges.

Cinema Paradiso (1988): An Italian drama that tells the story of a filmmaker’s nostalgic reflection on his childhood in a small Sicilian village and his friendship with a local projectionist.

Shawshank Redemption (1994): A powerful drama about hope, friendship, and redemption, following a man’s journey through the prison system after being wrongly convicted.

October Sky (1999): Based on a true story, this drama follows a young man’s passion for rocketry and his pursuit of a better life beyond his coal mining town.

The Emperor’s Club (2002): A drama centered around a dedicated teacher at an all-boys preparatory school who seeks to instill values in his students.

The Five People You Meet in Heaven (2004): A drama that explores the afterlife, as an elderly man learns important life lessons from five people he encounters in heaven.

The Ultimate Gift (2006): A drama about a wealthy young man’s journey to self-discovery and personal growth through a series of challenges set by his late grandfather.

Akeelah and the Bee (2006): A heartwarming drama about a young girl from a disadvantaged background who discovers her talent for spelling and competes in the National Spelling Bee.

The Last Song (2011): A romantic drama about a rebellious teenager spending a transformative summer with her estranged father, discovering love and family along the way.

Life of Pi (2012): Based on Yann Martel’s novel, this visually stunning adventure-drama follows a young man’s journey of survival on a lifeboat with a Bengal tiger.

The Impossible (2012): Based on a true story, this harrowing drama recounts a family’s struggle for survival in the aftermath of the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami.

The Hunger Games (2012): is a dystopian science fiction film based on Suzanne Collins’ novel of the same name. Set in the post-apocalyptic nation of Panem, which consists of the Capitol and twelve districts, the story follows Katniss Everdeen, portrayed by Jennifer Lawrence. As the characters navigate the treacherous game and confront moral dilemmas, “The Hunger Games” presents a gripping and action-packed narrative, examining the consequences of a society that thrives on control and spectacle. 

The Secret Life of Walter Mitty (2013): A visually stunning adventure film about a daydreamer who embarks on a real-life global journey, discovering courage and purpose.

The Ultimate Life (2013): A sequel to “The Ultimate Gift,” this drama explores the continuation of the protagonist’s journey as he learns valuable life lessons.

The Giver (2014): Based on the dystopian novel, it follows a young boy chosen to inherit the memories of a society that has erased all emotions.

Divergent (2014): In a future society divided into factions based on personality traits, a young woman discovers her unique identity and challenges the system.

The Fault in Our Stars (2014): A poignant romance centered around two teenagers with cancer who fall in love and embark on a journey of love and loss.

The Good Lie (2014): A drama inspired by true events; it follows a group of Sudanese refugees as they adjust to life in the United States after escaping civil war.

Little Boy (2015): A heartwarming drama set during World War II, telling the story of a young boy who believes he can bring his father back from the war by performing acts of kindness.

Paper Towns (2015): Based on John Green’s novel, it follows a young man’s quest to find the mysterious girl next door who disappears, leaving behind a trail of clues.

Me and Earl and The Dying Girl (2015): A heartfelt dramedy about an awkward high school student who befriends a classmate diagnosed with cancer, leading to a transformative friendship.

Bridge of Spies (2015): A historical drama directed by Steven Spielberg, based on true events during the Cold War, centered around a lawyer tasked with negotiating the exchange of captured spies.

Wonder (2017): A heartwarming family drama about a young boy with facial differences navigating the challenges of fitting in at a new school.

North Face (2018): A thrilling adventure film based on the true story of two German climbers attempting to conquer the treacherous North Face of the Eiger in the Swiss Alps.

Everything, Everything (2018): A romantic drama about a girl with a rare immune disorder who falls in love with the boy next door, prompting her to risk everything for a chance at life and love.

Romantic Laughs and Life Lessons

You’ve Got Mail (1998): A romantic comedy about two business rivals who unknowingly fall in love through anonymous email exchanges.

13 Going on 30 (2004): A fantasy romantic comedy about a 13-year-old girl who magically transforms into her 30-year-old self (played by Jennifer Garner) and navigates the challenges of adulthood.

About Time (2013): A romantic comedy-drama with a touch of fantasy, exploring themes of love, family, and the importance of living in the present.

Love, Rosie (2014): A romantic comedy-drama that spans over several years, depicting the evolving relationship between two best friends who may be meant for each other

Sierra Burgess is a Loser (2018): A teen romantic comedy that explores self-discovery and acceptance when a high school misfit and a popular girl team up to win over their crushes.

To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before (2018): A teen romance about a girl whose secret love letters are accidentally sent out, sparking romantic chaos and self-discovery. Starting Noah Centineo. 

Love, Simon (2018): A coming-of-age romantic comedy-drama about a high schooler navigating the challenges of coming out while trying to discover the identity of a secret admirer.

The Kissing Booth (2018): A romantic comedy about a high school girl who unexpectedly falls for her best friend’s older brother, leading to a series of complications.

The Perfect Date (2019): A romantic comedy where a high school student creates a dating app offering himself as a stand-in boyfriend, leading to unexpected romantic entanglements.

Prom Pact (2023): A film set at the height of prom season. Two best friends make a pact to go with each other to prom under two conditions: there will be no limos or slow dancing.

Comedy and Laugh-out-Loud Films

Men in Black (1997): A sci-fi comedy where a secret organization monitors and manages extraterrestrial activity on Earth, featuring agents with wit and style.

Legally Blonde (2001): A comedy about a sorority girl (played by Reese Witherspoon) who enrolls in Harvard Law School, defying stereotypes and proving that she is more than meets the eye.

Mean Girls (2004): Staring Lindsay Lohan, Mean Girls is a comedy that satirizes high school cliques and social dynamics, following a girl navigating the challenges of fitting in with the popular crowd.

Napoleon Dynamite (2004): A quirky and offbeat comedy that follows the life of an awkward and eccentric high school student named Napoleon Dynamite.

John Tucker Must Die (2006): A teen comedy about three girls seeking revenge on their mutual ex-boyfriend, John Tucker, who turns out to be dating all of them simultaneously.

Superbad (2007): A raunchy yet endearing comedy about two high school friends on a quest for a memorable night before graduation.

Hairspray (2007): is a musical comedy set in 1962 Baltimore. The film is an adaptation of the Broadway musical of the same name, which, in turn, was based on John Waters’ 1988 film. The story centers around Tracy Turnblad, played by Nikki Blonsky, an optimistic and plus-sized teenager with a passion for dancing. Tracy dreams of joining “The Corny Collins Show,” a popular local dance TV program. When she auditions and secures a spot on the show, she becomes a symbol of change and inclusion in a racially segregated society. Hairspray is known for its infectious musical sequences, catchy songs, and a cast that includes John Travolta, Christopher Walken, and Queen Latifah. 

17 Again (2009): A comedy where a man magically transforms back into his 17-year-old self, providing him with a second chance to navigate high school and family dynamics.

Easy A (2010): A witty comedy about a high school girl (played by Emma Stone) who pretends to be promiscuous to boost her social status, only to face unintended consequences and challenges. Film also stars Stanley Tucci as the high school girl’s father. 

Scott Pilgrim vs. the World (2010): is an action-comedy based on the graphic novel series “Scott Pilgrim” by Bryan Lee O’Malley. The film combines elements of romance, video games, and music to create a unique and visually dynamic cinematic experience. The story follows Scott Pilgrim, played by Michael Cera, a slacker and bass guitarist in a garage band. Scott falls for Ramona Flowers, portrayed by Mary Elizabeth Winstead, but soon discovers that he must defeat her seven evil exes in epic, video game-style battles in order to win her heart.

Pitch Perfect (2012): A musical comedy following an all-female a cappella group as they compete for glory and friendship in the cutthroat world of collegiate singing competitions.

Begin Again (2013): A musical comedy-drama about a disgraced music executive and a struggling singer-songwriter who find solace and redemption through creating music.

You are so not Invited to my Bat Mitzvah (2013): A teen comedy-drama that likely explores the challenges and humor surrounding a girl’s Bat Mitzvah celebration.

Chef (2014): A feel-good comedy-drama about a chef who starts a food truck business, rediscovering his passion for cooking and building relationships with his family.

St. Vincent (2014): A heartwarming comedy-drama about an unlikely friendship between a young boy and his cantankerous neighbor, exploring themes of compassion and acceptance.

The Duff (2015): A comedy about a high school girl who discovers she’s designated as the “Designated Ugly Fat Friend” and decides to redefine her image.

#REALITYHIGH (2017): A teen comedy-drama that delves into the challenges of social media and high school drama, following a girl trying to maintain authenticity in a digital world.

Tall Girl (2019): A teen comedy about a high school girl dealing with the challenges of being exceptionally tall and learning to embrace her uniqueness.

Yes Day (2021): A family comedy that follows a couple who decides to say “yes” to their children’s requests for an entire day, leading to hilarious and heartwarming adventures.

Senior Year (2022): A musical comedy that follows a high school senior determined to revive the canceled prom with the help of her friends.

On the Field and Beyond – Movies for the Sports Lover

Victory (1981): A sports drama set during World War II, featuring prisoners of war who form a soccer team to challenge their German captors.

Miracle on Ice (1981): A sports drama that recounts the historic victory of the United States ice hockey team against the heavily favored Soviet Union during the 1980 Winter Olympics.

Hoosiers (1986): A sports film inspired by a true story, depicting the underdog journey of a small-town Indiana high school basketball team to the state championship.

The Power of One (1992): A drama set in South Africa, chronicling a young boy’s journey through racial tensions and apartheid while pursuing his dream of becoming a boxer.

Bring it On (2000): A spirited cheerleading comedy that explores competition, friendship, and breaking stereotypes within high school cheerleading squads.

Remember the Titans (2000): Based on true events, this sports drama explores racial integration and unity within a high school football team in Virginia.

Beckham (2002): A sports comedy-drama about a young woman with a passion for soccer, challenging cultural expectations and pursuing her dreams.

Miracle (2004): Based on the true story of the 1980 United States men’s ice hockey team, capturing their unlikely victory against the Soviet Union during the Winter Olympics.

Friday Night Lights (2004): A sports drama based on the true story of a high school football team in a small Texas town, exploring the pressures and expectations of the game.

Coach Carter (2005): Based on the true story of high school basketball coach Ken Carter, who benched his undefeated team due to academic and behavioral issues, emphasizing the importance of education.

Glory Road (2006): A sports drama based on the true story of the first all-black starting lineup in NCAA basketball history, overcoming racial challenges to win the championship.

Forever Strong (2008): A sports drama inspired by true events, focusing on a troubled youth who finds redemption and purpose through rugby.

Invictus (2009): Based on real events, this sports drama tells the story of Nelson Mandela’s efforts to unite South Africa through the Rugby World Cup.

Perfect Game (2009): Based on a true story, this sports drama follows a group of young Mexican baseball players who achieve an unexpected victory in the Little League World Series.

Moneyball (2011): Based on a true story, this sports drama follows the Oakland Athletics’ innovative approach to building a competitive baseball team using statistics and analytics.

When the Game Stands Tall (2014): Based on a true story, this sports drama follows the remarkable journey of a high school football team with an unprecedented winning streak.

Draft Day (2014): A sports drama that unfolds on the day of the NFL Draft, focusing on a general manager’s decisions and the impact on the lives of players.

Million Dollar Arm (2014): Based on a true story, this sports drama follows a sports agent’s unconventional journey to discover talented young baseball pitchers in India.

Woodlawn (2015): Based on a true story, this sports drama explores racial tensions in the 1970s and the transformation of a high school football team through unity and faith.

McFarland, USA (2015): Based on a true story, this sports drama chronicles a high school cross-country team’s journey in a predominantly Latino community, overcoming adversity to achieve success.

Eddie the Eagle (2016): A feel-good sports comedy-drama about Eddie Edwards, a British ski jumper who defied the odds to compete in the 1988 Winter Olympics.

The Rookie (2018): Based on a true story, this sports drama follows a high school baseball coach who fulfills his dream of playing Major League Baseball at an unlikely age.

Classics

The Wizard of Oz (1939): A timeless fantasy follows Dorothy’s journey through the magical land of Oz, meeting unforgettable characters as she seeks to return home.

Rebel Without A Cause (1955): A classic drama exploring the struggles of adolescence, rebellion, and societal expectations, featuring James Dean in an iconic role.

Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981): commonly known as “Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark,” is an action-adventure film directed by Steven Spielberg and created by George Lucas. The film introduces the iconic character of Indiana Jones, portrayed by Harrison Ford, an archaeologist and adventurer with a penchant for retrieving ancient artifacts.

E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982): Steven Spielberg’s classic follows a young boy who befriends an alien stranded on Earth. The heartwarming tale explores friendship, empathy, and the magic of childhood.

Fast Times at Ridgemont High (1982): A comedy-drama that captures the highs and lows of teenage life in a Southern California high school during the early 1980s.

The Karate Kid (1984): A coming-of-age story about a teenager (played by Ralph Macchio) learning martial arts from an unconventional mentor, discovering not only self-defense but also valuable life lessons.

Sixteen Candles (1984): A classic ’80s teen comedy directed by John Hughes that follows a girl’s chaotic 16th birthday as she navigates high school crushes and family mishaps. Starring well known names such as Molly Ringwald and John Cusack.  

The Breakfast Club (1985): A quintessential ’80s teen film where five high school students from different cliques come together during Saturday detention, discovering common ground and forming unexpected bonds.

Ferris Bueller’s Day Off (1986): A classic ’80s teen comedy about a charismatic high school student (played by Matthew Broderick) who decides to take a day off, leading to hilarious escapades.

Top Gun (1986): An action drama film set at the United States Navy’s elite Fighter Weapons School, known as TOPGUN, where the best fighter pilots are trained. The film follows the journey of Pete “Maverick” Mitchell, played by Tom Cruise, a talented and ambitious Navy fighter pilot with a reputation for taking risks.

The Princess Bride (1987): A fairy tale adventure that combines romance, humor, and swashbuckling, as a young woman and her true love embark on a quest to rescue her from an arranged marriage.

Can’t Buy Me Love (1987): A classic ’80s teen comedy where a high school nerd pays a popular girl to be his girlfriend, leading to unexpected consequences.

Heathers (1988): A dark comedy-drama that satirizes high school life, following a girl’s interactions with a popular clique known as the Heathers. Starring Winona Ryder. 

Dead Poets Society (1989): is a drama film directed by Peter Weir. Set in an all-boys preparatory school in the late 1950s, the story revolves around English teacher John Keating, portrayed by Robin Williams, and his unorthodox teaching methods. Keating inspires his students to appreciate poetry, literature, and the pursuit of individual passions rather than conforming to societal expectations. 

Dumb and Dumber (1994): is a slapstick comedy film directed by Peter Farrelly. Starring Jim Carrey as Lloyd Christmas and Jeff Daniels as Harry Dunne, the movie follows the misadventures of two well-meaning but intellectually challenged friends on a cross-country journey.

Clueless (1995): A teen comedy set in the affluent and fashionable world of Beverly Hills High School, the film follows Cher Horowitz, played by Alicia Silverstone, a wealthy and popular high school student with a penchant for matchmaking and a flair for fashion. As Cher navigates the challenges of adolescence, friendships, and romance, she learns valuable lessons about empathy, self-discovery, and the complexity of relationships.

Romeo and Juliet (1996): A modern adaptation of Shakespeare’s classic tragedy, capturing the timeless love story amid contemporary settings.

Annie (2014): A modern adaptation of the classic musical, following the adventures of an optimistic and spirited orphan named Annie.

Little Women (2019): A modern adaptation of Louisa May Alcott’s classic novel, exploring the lives and ambitions of the March sisters in Civil War-era America.

What Next? More Than Just Popcorn Time

Film night with our teens is more than a chance to unwind—it’s a gateway to meaningful exchanges. 

After the credits roll, seize the opportunity to dive into the themes and ask each other questions. 

You might be surprised at the insights that emerge from discussing the challenges and victories of a character, or by relating the story to personal experiences.

Use these cinematic experiences as a springboard for deeper conversations about life. 

Whether it’s the moral quandaries in The Giver or the social intricacies in Mean Girls, each film offers a unique perspective. 

Encourage your teen to express their thoughts and feelings about the film’s subject matter, leading to an enriching dialogue that strengthens your bond.

Finally, why not make movie nights an enduring part of your family tradition? 

Choose a day, gather your favorite snacks, and create a cozy setting that all look forward to. 

Let these shared moments become a cherished ritual, uplifting the spirit of family togetherness.

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