Best Teen Movies

Last updated: March 27, 2026

Finding movies that are entertaining enough to keep teens from texting can be a challenge (especially when you think you've finally found a movie that won't make you look like a dork). Make them an offer they can't refuse with a list of our favorite teen films. From laugh-out-loud comedies to powerful coming-of-age stories, there are plenty of options that you and your teen can enjoy together. Some of these top-rated titles are edgier than others, so be prepared to discuss the way topics such as sex and violence are portrayed. For even more movie-night inspiration, check out our 50 Movies All Kids Should Watch Before They're 12.

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10 Things I Hate About You Poster Image
MOVIE

10 Things I Hate About You

age 13+

Engaging but edgy update of Taming of the Shrew.

March 31, 1999 1999 PG-13 (100 minutes)
American Graffiti Movie Poster: An illustrated collage of characters and moments from the movie
MOVIE

American Graffiti

age 13+

Coming-of-age classic has smoking, gender stereotypes.

April 11, 1973 1973 PG (110 minutes)
Blinded by the Light Poster Image
MOVIE

Blinded by the Light

age 13+

Charming comedy celebrates family ties and The Boss.

August 16, 2019 2019 PG-13 (114 minutes)
Bring It On Poster Image
MOVIE

Bring It On

age 13+

Smart and sassy movie, but expect raunchy humor, language.

August 25, 2000 2000 PG-13 (98 minutes)
Clueless Poster Image
MOVIE

Clueless

age 13+

High school take on Jane Austen's "Emma" has sex, drugs.

July 26, 1995 1995 PG-13 (97 minutes)
Dead Poets Society Poster Image
MOVIE

Dead Poets Society

age 13+

Inspiring, intense story of a teacher and his students.

June 9, 1989 1989 PG (128 minutes)
Dumplin' Poster Image
MOVIE

Dumplin'

age 13+

Funny, romantic, insightful teen tale has a little swearing.

December 7, 2018 2018 PG-13 (110 minutes)
Five Feet Apart Poster Image
MOVIE

Five Feet Apart

age 13+

Strong acting saves predictable, sentimental love story.

March 15, 2019 2019 PG-13 (116 minutes)
Hoop Dreams Poster Image
MOVIE

Hoop Dreams

age 13+

Stunning documentary addresses race and class issues.

January 1, 1994 1994 PG-13 (171 minutes)
Love, Simon Movie Poster: A group of four young adults smiling against a red background.
MOVIE

Love, Simon

age 13+

Affecting, lovable romcom about gay teen has a little edge.

March 16, 2018 2018 PG-13 (109 minutes)
Lucas Poster Image
MOVIE

Lucas

age 13+

A realistic look at a teen's coming-of-age.

March 28, 1986 1986 PG-13 (100 minutes)
Maidentrip Poster Image
MOVIE

Maidentrip

age 13+

Excellent docu about teen sailor; brief profanity.

December 30, 2013 2013 NR (82 minutes)
Mean Girls Poster Image
MOVIE

Mean Girls

age 13+

Mature but often hilarious teen comedy.

April 30, 2004 2004 PG-13 (95 minutes)
Never Been Kissed Poster Image
MOVIE

Never Been Kissed

age 13+

Sweet, romantic story for teens has some edgy scenes.

April 2, 1999 1999 PG-13 (107 minutes)
Pitch Perfect Poster Image
MOVIE

Pitch Perfect

age 13+

Edgy, teen-friendly musical comedy uplifts with song, heart.

September 28, 2012 2012 PG-13 (112 minutes)
Rebel Without a Cause Poster Image
MOVIE

Rebel Without a Cause

age 13+

1950s James Dean teen-rage landmark still resonates.

October 27, 1955 1955 PG-13 (111 minutes)
Sierra Burgess Is a Loser Poster Image
MOVIE

Sierra Burgess Is a Loser

age 13+

Engaging teen romcom has underage drinking, language.

September 7, 2018 2018 PG-13 (105 minutes)
Sing Street Poster Image
MOVIE

Sing Street

age 13+

Brilliant (if edgy) musical drama celebrates creativity.

April 15, 2016 2016 PG-13 (106 minutes)
The Half of It Poster Image
MOVIE

The Half of It

age 13+

Touching, smart teen story deals with sexuality; drinking.

May 1, 2020 2020 PG-13 (104 minutes)
The Hate U Give Poster Image
MOVIE

The Hate U Give

age 13+

Powerful, thought-provoking drama about race, activism.

October 5, 2018 2018 PG-13 (172 minutes)
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