10 Movies and Shows Like The Kings of Summer (2013)

Description: Like 'The Kings of Summer', 'Stand by Me' is a coming-of-age film that explores the themes of friendship, adventure, and the transition from childhood to adolescence. Both films feature a group of young boys embarking on a journey that tests their bonds and helps them grow. The nostalgic tone and focus on youthful rebellion and self-discovery are key similarities.

Fact: Based on Stephen King's novella 'The Body'. Directed by Rob Reiner. The film was shot in Oregon, USA. It's considered one of the best coming-of-age films of all time.

Description: 'Adventureland' shares with 'The Kings of Summer' a summer setting where the protagonist undergoes significant personal growth. Both films mix humor with poignant moments, exploring themes of first love, friendship, and the bittersweet transition to adulthood.

Fact: Directed by Greg Mottola. Stars Jesse Eisenberg and Kristen Stewart. The film is semi-autobiographical, based on Mottola's experiences working at an amusement park. The soundtrack features music from the 1980s.

Description: Like 'The Kings of Summer', 'Super 8' focuses on a group of kids experiencing a pivotal summer that changes their lives. Both films blend elements of adventure and personal discovery, with a strong emphasis on the dynamics of childhood friendships.

Fact: Directed by J.J. Abrams. Produced by Steven Spielberg. The film is an homage to Spielberg's early works. The young cast includes Elle Fanning and Joel Courtney.

Description: Similar to 'The Kings of Summer', this film deals with the complexities of adolescence, including friendship, first love, and personal trauma. Both movies capture the emotional turbulence of growing up and the search for identity amidst the challenges of high school life.

Fact: Based on the novel by Stephen Chbosky, who also directed the film. Logan Lerman, Emma Watson, and Ezra Miller star. Filmed in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The tunnel scenes were shot at the Fort Pitt Tunnel.

Description: This film resonates with 'The Kings of Summer' in its honest portrayal of teenage life, focusing on themes of self-discovery and the complexities of young relationships. Both movies offer a raw and realistic look at the struggles of growing up.

Fact: Based on the novel by Tim Tharp. Stars Miles Teller and Shailene Woodley. Directed by James Ponsoldt. The screenplay was written by Scott Neustadter and Michael H. Weber.

Description: This film shares with 'The Kings of Summer' the theme of a young protagonist finding himself during a summer of personal growth. Both movies highlight the importance of friendship and the struggle against parental expectations, set against the backdrop of a transformative summer vacation.

Fact: Written and directed by Nat Faxon and Jim Rash. Features a breakout performance by Liam James. The water park scenes were filmed at Water Wizz in Massachusetts. The title refers to the way-back seat in a station wagon.

Description: Wes Anderson's 'Moonrise Kingdom' parallels 'The Kings of Summer' in its depiction of young love and the desire for independence from adult authority. Both films use a whimsical, stylized approach to storytelling and share a visual aesthetic that emphasizes the beauty and adventure of youth.

Fact: Set on a fictional New England island in the 1960s. Features a young Jared Gilman and Kara Hayward in their debut roles. The film's score was composed by Alexandre Desplat. It was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay.

Description: This film, like 'The Kings of Summer', delves into the angst and confusion of adolescence. Both movies feature protagonists who feel out of place and are navigating the challenges of growing up, with a mix of humor and heartfelt moments.

Fact: Hailee Steinfeld stars as the lead. Written and directed by Kelly Fremon Craig. The film was produced by James L. Brooks. It received critical acclaim for its authentic portrayal of teenage life.

Description: Sharing the coming-of-age theme with 'The Kings of Summer', this film explores deep friendships and the impact of life-changing events on young individuals. Both movies balance humor with emotional depth, creating a poignant narrative about youth.

Fact: Won the Grand Jury Prize and the Audience Award at Sundance. Based on the novel by Jesse Andrews. Directed by Alfonso Gomez-Rejon. Features a unique visual style with stop-motion animation.

Description: 'Lady Bird' shares with 'The Kings of Summer' a focus on the protagonist's journey towards self-identity and independence. Both films capture the turbulence of adolescence and the strained yet loving relationships between parents and children.

Fact: Directed by Greta Gerwig. Saoirse Ronan stars as the titular character. The film is semi-autobiographical. It was nominated for five Academy Awards, including Best Picture.