If you loved the introspective and moody vibe of 'Palo Alto' (2013), you're in for a treat. This article explores 10 similar movies and shows that capture the same raw, coming-of-age essence, filled with teenage angst, emotional depth, and atmospheric storytelling. Whether you're drawn to its dreamy cinematography or its honest portrayal of youth, these recommendations will keep you hooked.

It's Kind of a Funny Story (2010)
Description: A quirky yet profound story about a depressed teenager who checks himself into a psychiatric ward and finds unexpected camaraderie and self-awareness.
Fact: The film is based on Ned Vizzini's semi-autobiographical novel. Many scenes were shot in an actual former psychiatric hospital in Brooklyn.


Boyhood (2014)
Description: A groundbreaking film shot over 12 years, chronicling the life of a boy from childhood to adulthood, capturing the subtle and profound moments of growing up.
Fact: Director Richard Linklater filmed the actors over a 12-year period without a completed script. The film's soundtrack features songs from each year of production, reflecting the passage of time.


The Perks of Being a Wallflower (2012)
Description: A coming-of-age story that explores the complexities of adolescence, mental health, and self-discovery through the eyes of an introverted protagonist navigating high school life.
Fact: The film is based on the novel of the same name by Stephen Chbosky, who also directed the movie. It was shot in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, which adds to its authentic suburban feel.


The Spectacular Now (2013)
Description: A raw and honest depiction of teenage love and self-destructive behavior, focusing on a charismatic but troubled high school senior who begins to question his future.
Fact: The screenplay was written by Scott Neustadter and Michael H. Weber, who also wrote (500) Days of Summer. The film was shot in Athens, Georgia, standing in for the fictional suburban setting.


The Edge of Seventeen (2016)
Description: A sharp and witty take on teenage angst, focusing on a high school junior dealing with family drama, friendship betrayals, and unrequited love.
Fact: The film marks Kelly Fremon Craig's directorial debut. Hailee Steinfeld's performance earned her a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actress.


The Kings of Summer (2013)
Description: A whimsical adventure about three boys who decide to build a house in the woods and live off the grid, exploring themes of freedom and growing up.
Fact: The film was shot in Chagrin Falls, Ohio, and features a mix of improvisation and scripted dialogue. The house built by the characters was constructed by the crew and later dismantled.


Me and Earl and the Dying Girl (2015)
Description: A bittersweet story about an unlikely friendship between a socially awkward teen and a classmate with leukemia, blending humor and heartbreak.
Fact: The film won both the Grand Jury Prize and the Audience Award at the Sundance Film Festival. The characters' homemade films are inspired by classic cinema.


The Fault in Our Stars (2014)
Description: A touching narrative about young love and mortality, following two teenagers with cancer who form a deep and transformative connection.
Fact: Based on John Green's bestselling novel, the film was shot in Pittsburgh and Amsterdam. The book's title is inspired by a line from Shakespeare's Julius Caesar.


Lady Bird (2017)
Description: A heartfelt portrayal of a teenage girl's turbulent relationship with her mother and her quest for identity, set against the backdrop of a Catholic high school in Sacramento.
Fact: Greta Gerwig wrote and directed the film, which is semi-autobiographical. It was shot in just 26 days, and many scenes were filmed in Gerwig's actual childhood home.


Eighth Grade (2018)
Description: A poignant exploration of the awkwardness and anxiety of middle school, capturing the protagonist's struggles with self-esteem and social media in a digital age.
Fact: Bo Burnham, primarily known as a comedian, wrote and directed the film. The lead actress, Elsie Fisher, was actually in eighth grade during filming.
