If you were captivated by the raw emotion and gritty realism of Hellion (2014), this article is for you. We’ve curated a list of 10 movies and shows that share its themes of family turmoil, youthful rebellion, and emotional depth. Whether you loved the film’s intense performances or its unflinching portrayal of struggle, these recommendations will keep you hooked.

Fish Tank (2009)
Description: A stark, unflinching look at a troubled teenager's life in a working-class British neighborhood, with raw performances and intense realism.
Fact: The film won the Jury Prize at the Cannes Film Festival in


Winter's Bone (2010)
Description: A gritty, atmospheric drama about a young girl's struggle to survive in a harsh, rural environment, highlighting themes of family and survival.
Fact: Jennifer Lawrence's breakout role, for which she received her first Academy Award nomination.


The Spectacular Now (2013)
Description: A heartfelt exploration of teenage life, focusing on a charismatic but troubled young man navigating love and self-discovery.
Fact: The screenplay was written by the same duo who penned '(500) Days of Summer.'


The Way Way Back (2013)
Description: A bittersweet coming-of-age story about a shy teenager finding his voice during a summer at a water park, with themes of self-acceptance and growth.
Fact: The film was written and directed by Nat Faxon and Jim Rash, who also won an Oscar for co-writing 'The Descendants.'


The Kings of Summer (2013)
Description: A coming-of-age story about teenagers seeking independence by building their own home in the woods, blending humor with deeper emotional undertones.
Fact: The film was shot in Ohio, and many of the outdoor scenes were filmed in a real forest.


Short Term 12 (2013)
Description: An emotionally charged drama set in a foster care facility, depicting the struggles and resilience of both the kids and their caretakers.
Fact: Brie Larson's performance in this film helped launch her career as a leading actress.


American Honey (2016)
Description: A sprawling, immersive road movie about a young woman's journey with a group of misfits, capturing the chaos and freedom of youth.
Fact: Many of the cast members were non-actors, and much of the dialogue was improvised.


Leave No Trace (2018)
Description: A quiet, introspective film about a father and daughter living off the grid, exploring themes of isolation, freedom, and societal norms.
Fact: The film is based on the novel 'My Abandonment' by Peter Rock, which was inspired by a true story.


The Florida Project (2017)
Description: A raw and poignant portrayal of childhood and poverty, focusing on kids navigating a harsh world with resilience and imagination.
Fact: The film was shot on location at a real motel near Disney World, and many of the actors were non-professionals from the area.


The Miseducation of Cameron Post (2018)
Description: A powerful drama about a teenage girl sent to a conversion therapy camp, exploring themes of identity, repression, and resilience.
Fact: The film is based on the 2012 novel of the same name by Emily M. Danforth.
