If you were captivated by the raw intensity and coming-of-age chaos of Here Are the Young Men (2021), this list is for you. Dive into 10 similarly gripping movies and shows that explore themes of youth, rebellion, and existential angst. Whether you're drawn to dark character studies or gritty urban dramas, these picks will keep you hooked.

The Doom Generation (1995)
Description: A surreal and hyper-stylized road movie that delves into the anarchic and violent tendencies of youth. The film's dark humor and graphic visuals create a disorienting and immersive experience.
Fact: The film was part of Gregg Araki's 'Teen Apocalypse Trilogy.' It features a cameo by Parker Posey, who appears as a convenience store clerk.


Trainspotting (1996)
Description: A raw and unflinching portrayal of youth culture, addiction, and the search for identity, set against a gritty urban backdrop. The film captures the chaotic energy and disillusionment of young adulthood.
Fact: The iconic 'Choose Life' monologue was improvised by Ewan McGregor. The film's soundtrack became a cultural phenomenon, featuring artists like Iggy Pop and Underworld.


Nowhere (1997)
Description: A chaotic and surreal exploration of teenage angst, sexuality, and alienation, set in a hyper-stylized version of Los Angeles. The film's dreamlike narrative and vibrant visuals capture the confusion and intensity of youth.
Fact: The film features an early appearance by James Duval, who became a frequent collaborator with director Gregg Araki. The soundtrack includes tracks by bands like Slowdive and The Jesus and Mary Chain.


Requiem for a Dream (2000)
Description: A harrowing exploration of addiction and its devastating effects on young lives, told through a visceral and stylized narrative. The film's intense emotional tone and visual style amplify its themes of despair and self-destruction.
Fact: Darren Aronofsky used a unique editing technique called 'hip-hop montage' to depict drug use. The film's score, composed by Clint Mansell, is widely regarded as one of the greatest in cinema history.


Bully (2001)
Description: A grim and unflinching look at teenage violence and the toxic dynamics of friendship, set in a suburban wasteland. The film's raw and confrontational style underscores the brutality of its subject matter.
Fact: Based on the true story of the murder of Bobby Kent in 199The film's controversial content led to it being banned in several countries.


The Rules of Attraction (2002)
Description: A darkly comedic and nihilistic look at the lives of disaffected college students, filled with hedonism, alienation, and emotional turmoil. The film's fragmented narrative and stylized visuals capture the aimlessness of youth.
Fact: The film features a reverse-chronology sequence that was inspired by the novel 'Bright Lights, Big City.' The soundtrack includes tracks by The Smiths, New Order, and other iconic bands.


Thirteen (2003)
Description: A brutal and honest depiction of teenage rebellion, peer pressure, and the loss of innocence. The film's raw and unfiltered approach to adolescence mirrors the chaotic and often painful transition into adulthood.
Fact: Co-written by a 13-year-old Nikki Reed, who also starred in the film. The script was completed in just six days, drawing heavily from Reed's own experiences.


The Bling Ring (2013)
Description: A critique of celebrity obsession and materialism among teenagers, told through a lens of glamour and emptiness. The film explores themes of identity, rebellion, and the consequences of unchecked desire.
Fact: Based on a true story of a group of teenagers who burglarized the homes of celebrities like Paris Hilton and Lindsay Lohan. Paris Hilton allowed the crew to film in her actual home.


American Honey (2016)
Description: A sprawling, episodic journey through the lives of young drifters, capturing the freedom and instability of youth. The film's naturalistic style and focus on marginalized characters highlight the search for belonging and purpose.
Fact: The cast included many non-professional actors, and much of the dialogue was improvised. The film was shot in chronological order to maintain authenticity.


Good Time (2017)
Description: A frenetic and tense thriller that follows a young man's desperate attempts to escape his circumstances, driven by a pulsating score and neon-lit visuals. The film's urgency and moral ambiguity reflect the chaos of modern life.
Fact: Robert Pattinson underwent a physical transformation for the role, including dyeing his hair and wearing prosthetics. The film's score was composed by Oneohtrix Point Never, adding to its immersive atmosphere.
