10 Must-Watch Teen Drama Films

Description: Five high school students from different social cliques spend a Saturday in detention together, discovering that they have more in common than they thought. It's a timeless exploration of teenage stereotypes and the desire for understanding.

Fact: John Hughes wrote the film in just two days. The iconic scene where the characters dance to "Twist and Shout" was improvised.

Description: Based on Stephen King's novella "The Body," this film captures the essence of friendship and the loss of innocence as four boys set out on an adventure to find a missing body.

Fact: The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay. It's often cited as one of the best coming-of-age films ever made.

Description: This film portrays the rapid descent of Tracy, a 13-year-old girl, into the world of drugs, sex, and self-harm as she tries to fit in with the cool crowd. It's a stark look at the pressures of teenage conformity.

Fact: The screenplay was co-written by director Catherine Hardwicke and Nikki Reed, who also stars in the film and based the story on her own experiences.

Description: Juno MacGuff, a witty and unconventional teenager, faces an unplanned pregnancy and decides to give her baby up for adoption. The film explores themes of responsibility, choice, and the complexities of growing up.

Fact: Ellen Page, who played Juno, was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actress. The film also won the Oscar for Best Original Screenplay.

Description: This film delves into the life of Charlie, a shy and introspective teenager who navigates his first year of high school, dealing with issues like mental health, friendship, and first love. It's a heartfelt exploration of the complexities of adolescence.

Fact: The film was adapted from Stephen Chbosky's novel, which he also wrote and directed. Logan Lerman, who plays Charlie, was nominated for several awards for his performance.

Description: Sutter, a charming but troubled high school senior, meets Aimee, a shy girl with big dreams. Their relationship forces both to confront their futures and the realities of their present lives.

Fact: The film was adapted from Tim Tharp's novel. Miles Teller and Shailene Woodley received praise for their chemistry and performances.

Description: Nadine, a high school junior, struggles with her identity, her relationship with her best friend, and her family dynamics after her father's death. This film captures the raw emotions of teenage life with humor and honesty.

Fact: The screenplay was written by Kelly Fremon Craig, who was inspired by her own teenage years. Hailee Steinfeld's portrayal of Nadine was critically acclaimed.

Description: Hazel Grace Lancaster, a teenager with terminal cancer, falls in love with Augustus Waters, a former basketball player and cancer survivor. Their story is both heartbreaking and uplifting, dealing with love, loss, and the meaning of life.

Fact: The film was adapted from John Green's best-selling novel. Shailene Woodley and Ansel Elgort's performances were widely praised.

Description: Set in Sacramento, California, this coming-of-age story follows Christine "Lady Bird" McPherson as she navigates her senior year of high school, her relationship with her mother, and her dreams of attending college in New York City.

Fact: Greta Gerwig, who wrote and directed the film, drew heavily from her own experiences growing up. Saoirse Ronan's performance as Lady Bird earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress.

Description: This film follows the life of Chiron, a young African-American man, from childhood to adulthood, as he grapples with his identity, sexuality, and the harsh realities of his environment in Miami.

Fact: "Moonlight" won the Academy Award for Best Picture, making it the first film with an all-black cast to do so. It was also the first film with an openly gay director to win Best Picture.