If you loved the heartfelt coming-of-age drama 'Porcupine Lake' (2017), you're in for a treat. This article explores 10 similar movies and shows that capture the same raw emotions, small-town nostalgia, and tender friendships. Whether you're drawn to its intimate storytelling or its poignant exploration of adolescence, these recommendations will keep you hooked.

Booksmart (2019)
Description: A coming-of-age story that blends humor with heartfelt moments, capturing the intensity of teenage friendships and the pressures of adolescence.
Fact: Olivia Wilde's directorial debut. Features a soundtrack curated by Dan the Automator.


The Perks of Being a Wallflower (2012)
Description: A deeply emotional narrative about fitting in, mental health, and the transformative power of friendship during high school.
Fact: Author Stephen Chbosky directed the film adaptation himself. Features a cameo by Joan Cusack as a psychiatrist.


The Spectacular Now (2013)
Description: Delves into the complexities of young love and self-destructive tendencies, presenting a raw and honest look at teenage life.
Fact: Based on the novel by Tim Tharp. Screenplay written by the duo behind (500) Days of Summer.


Carol (2015)
Description: A beautifully shot period piece about forbidden love and personal liberation, with meticulous attention to emotional nuance.
Fact: Based on Patricia Highsmith's novel The Price of Salt. Used Super 16mm film to achieve its distinctive visual texture.


The Diary of a Teenage Girl (2015)
Description: An unflinching look at female sexuality and coming-of-age in the 1970s, told through a mix of live-action and animation.
Fact: Adapted from Phoebe Gloeckner's graphic novel. Features Bel Powley's breakthrough performance.


Lady Bird (2017)
Description: A poignant portrayal of a young woman's turbulent relationship with her family and hometown, emphasizing personal growth and emotional authenticity.
Fact: Greta Gerwig became the fifth woman ever nominated for the Academy Award for Best Director for this film. Shot in Sacramento, Gerwig's hometown.


Moonlight (2016)
Description: A lyrical exploration of identity, sexuality, and masculinity, told through the lens of a young Black man's life in three acts.
Fact: First LGBTQ+ film and first film with an all-Black cast to win the Academy Award for Best Picture. Shot on a budget of just $


Call Me by Your Name (2017)
Description: Captures the intensity of first love and sexual awakening in a sun-drenched European setting, with a focus on emotional intimacy.
Fact: Timothée Chalamet learned to speak Italian and play piano for his role. The peach scene was filmed in one take.


The Miseducation of Cameron Post (2018)
Description: Explores themes of self-discovery and identity within a restrictive environment, focusing on a young protagonist navigating complex emotions and societal expectations.
Fact: Won the Grand Jury Prize at the Sundance Film Festival. Based on a novel by Emily M. Danforth.


Eighth Grade (2018)
Description: A painfully accurate depiction of middle school anxiety and the search for identity in the digital age, marked by awkward sincerity.
Fact: Bo Burnham wrote the script specifically for Elsie Fisher after seeing her YouTube videos. The fire scene was improvised.
