If you loved the heartfelt coming-of-age adventure in What Lies West (2019), you're in for a treat. This article explores 10 similar movies and shows that capture the same spirit of self-discovery, friendship, and the open road. Whether you're craving more indie charm or youthful wanderlust, these picks will keep you inspired.

Stand by Me (1986)
Description: A timeless tale of friendship and self-discovery during a pivotal summer journey, filled with nostalgia and poignant moments.
Fact: Based on Stephen King's novella 'The Body,' it was one of the first films to explore the depth of adolescent friendships.


Adventureland (2009)
Description: A bittersweet comedy-drama that explores the awkward transition from adolescence to adulthood through a summer job at an amusement park.
Fact: The film is semi-autobiographical, drawing from the director's own experiences working at a similar park in his youth.


The Perks of Being a Wallflower (2012)
Description: A heartfelt and introspective look at the highs and lows of teenage life, with a strong emphasis on friendship and personal growth.
Fact: The author of the novel also wrote the screenplay and directed the film, ensuring a faithful adaptation.


The Spectacular Now (2013)
Description: A raw and honest portrayal of teenage life, focusing on the complexities of relationships and self-identity.
Fact: The film's screenplay was adapted from a novel by the same name, which won the 2009 PEN Center USA Literary Award.


The Way Way Back (2013)
Description: A touching narrative about a shy teenager finding his voice and confidence during a transformative summer at a water park.
Fact: The screenplay was written by the duo who also wrote 'The Descendants,' and it was their directorial debut.


Moonrise Kingdom (2012)
Description: A whimsical and heartfelt story about young love and the complexities of growing up, framed by a unique visual style.
Fact: The film's distinctive aesthetic was inspired by children's books from the 1960s, and the soundtrack features mostly classical music.


The Edge of Seventeen (2016)
Description: A sharp and relatable take on the struggles of adolescence, blending humor with heartfelt moments of self-discovery.
Fact: The script was featured on the 2014 Black List, an annual survey of the most liked unproduced screenplays in Hollywood.


The Kings of Summer (2013)
Description: A coming-of-age story that captures the essence of youthful rebellion and the desire for independence, set against the backdrop of a summer adventure.
Fact: The film was shot in just 23 days, and much of the dialogue was improvised by the young cast.


Me and Earl and the Dying Girl (2015)
Description: A poignant and humorous exploration of friendship and mortality, with a unique narrative style and emotional depth.
Fact: The film won both the Grand Jury Prize and the Audience Award at the 2015 Sundance Film Festival.


Lady Bird (2017)
Description: A deeply personal and authentic story about a high school senior navigating family, friendships, and her future.
Fact: The film was shot in just 22 days, and many of the locations were the director's actual childhood haunts.
