Family Films About Coming of Age

Description: Based on Stephen King's novella, this film captures the essence of friendship and the bittersweet passage from childhood to adolescence as four boys embark on a quest to find a missing body.

Fact: The film was originally titled "The Body," but was changed to "Stand by Me" after the song by Ben E. King was used in the movie. Also, the cast members remained close friends after filming.

Description: This poignant film explores the life of Vada Sultenfuss, a young girl dealing with her mother's death and her father's funeral home business, all while navigating the complexities of first love and friendship.

Fact: Macaulay Culkin, who plays Thomas J., was terrified of bees in real life, which added authenticity to his character's fear. Also, the film was Anna Chlumsky's debut role.

Description: This timeless classic follows a group of young boys during one unforgettable summer, where they learn about friendship, baseball, and the legendary "Beast" that guards a baseball field. It's a perfect encapsulation of the innocence and adventures of youth.

Fact: The film was shot in Utah, and the house used for filming was actually built for the movie. Also, the dog playing "The Beast" was a real-life English Mastiff named Hercules.

Description: After losing her parents, Mary Lennox discovers a hidden garden that becomes a place of healing and growth for her and her newfound family.

Fact: The film was shot in Yorkshire, England, where the original story by Frances Hodgson Burnett is set. Also, the garden was constructed from scratch for the movie.

Description: This film tells the story of an unlikely friendship between two boys, one with learning disabilities and the other with a physical disability, as they embark on adventures and learn about courage and loyalty.

Fact: The film is based on the novel "Freak the Mighty" by Rodman Philbrick. Also, the actors, Kieran Culkin and Elden Henson, developed a genuine friendship during filming.

Description: This delightful remake tells the story of twin sisters separated at birth who meet at summer camp and devise a plan to reunite their parents. It's a heartwarming tale of family, identity, and the bonds of sisterhood.

Fact: Lindsay Lohan played both twins, and the film was shot in both London and Los Angeles. Also, the original 1961 film starred Hayley Mills in the dual role.

Description: Mia Thermopolis discovers she's the princess of a small European country, leading to a hilarious and heartwarming journey of self-discovery and acceptance.

Fact: Julie Andrews, who plays Queen Clarisse, was initially hesitant to take the role, but was persuaded by her granddaughter. Also, the film's setting, Genovia, is a fictional country.

Description: Stanley Yelnats IV is sent to Camp Green Lake, where he and other boys are forced to dig holes as punishment. Through this experience, he uncovers family secrets and finds his own path to redemption.

Fact: The film was shot in California, but the setting was meant to be in Texas. Also, the author of the book, Louis Sachar, makes a cameo appearance as a lawyer.

Description: Jess and Leslie create an imaginary kingdom in the woods, where they escape the challenges of school and home life, learning about friendship, imagination, and the harsh realities of growing up.

Fact: The film was shot in New Zealand, despite the story being set in rural Virginia. Also, the book by Katherine Paterson was inspired by a real-life tragedy involving her son's friend.

Description: Akeelah, an 11-year-old girl from South Los Angeles, enters a spelling bee competition, learning about her own potential and the importance of community support along the way.

Fact: The film was inspired by real-life spelling bee champions. Also, the director, Doug Atchison, was a former spelling bee contestant himself.