Published May 29, 2026
BY TULLAH McCOLL
High school is a time in one’s life like no other. Whether you hated it or peaked, it is without a doubt memorable. Movies are often able to capture the experience with honesty, humor and relatability because it is such a distinct era of growing up, learning about the world and who you want to be in that world. I can say with pride that these five movies played a role in shaping my high school experience and outlook on these last four years as I move forward.
COURTESY OF PARAMOUNT PICTURES
“Ferris Bueller’s Day Off”
As my time at CHS is now coming to an end, turns out Ferris was right: Time does move pretty fast. The epitome of the coming-of-age genre, “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” embodies the feeling of wanting to make the most of your life when you’re young, while still being constrained by the rules of teenagehood and fears about what lies ahead. While this movie was enjoyable at age 10, it means so much more when the real world starts to feel more real.
courtesy of UNIVERSAL PICTURES
“The Breakfast Club”
“The Breakfast Club” doesn’t need much explanation as to why it is a must-watch due to its popularity and praise that speaks for itself. While the film makes viewers nostalgic for the ‘80s, whether it be a simpler time of technology, memorable music or questionable fashion choices, director John Hughes gives the audience a look inside of what it means to be a teenager and how it feels, no matter what clique you’re a part of. Alongside its impeccable soundtrack, this movie discusses themes of social pressures, fulfilling expectations and the desire to enjoy being young while it lasts.
courtesy of ANNAPURNA PICTURES
“Booksmart”
An honest, hilarious film about two best friends facing regrets on their last night of high school, “Booksmart” is a necessary watch in understanding 21st century teenagers and being young in today’s culture. This movie reminds me of the similarities we all share, despite the different ways we have chosen to live out our high school years. Funny, relatable and surprisingly deep, this 2019 film is a must watch.
courtesy of DETOUR FILMPRODUCTION
“Dazed and Confused”
This movie will make you want to time travel back to the 1970s with its distinct vibe of music, fashion, hair and hangouts, while also representing themes of adolescents that are timeless. Feeling lost and just searching for a good time, the characters in this film are hilarious and represent an important part of growing up: having fun. In a time where society encourages high schoolers to apply to college, get a degree and join the workforce, this 1993 film reminds me of the uniqueness of a time when responsibilities are minimal and priorities are…elsewhere.
courtesy of A24
“Ladybird
Starring Saoirse Ronan, “Ladybird” portrays the struggles of mother-daughter relationships during teenhood and the desire to be liked for who you are while not truly knowing that yourself. This film is honest, witty and nostalgic as it delves into the feelings of being a teenage girl with big dreams and a somewhat naive point of view. Most high schoolers can relate to the protagonist’s challenge of wanting to be understood, while also fitting in, which serves as the primary reason why it’s a necessary watch.
