Thecoming-of-age genre has been quite popularin the film and TV industries. More often than not, the reason for its popularity is relevance as well as the infusion of drama. Many directors have added their own spin to this genre and have created some interesting shows. While some have entered the platform and disappeared, others have become major hits. These shows not only leave a lasting impact, but they have also created some fascinating trends, in turn, influencing society.
Here are some of the best coming-of-age shows that have grabbed the attention of viewers and are here to stay.
9Stranger Things (2016-Present)
WithSeason 4 being released, this particular series is one that combines science fiction, horror, and drama.Stranger Thingstakes place in the 1980s in the fictional town of Hawkins, Indiana. With a portal to an alternate dimension called the “Upside Down” being opened by the Hawkins Laboratory, the residents start to encounter strange occurrences. The story focuses on a bunch of kids that navigate through this tumultuous town, alongside a psychokinetic character named Eleven (Millie Bobby Brown), that escaped from the lab. The show is definitely an emotional rollercoaster ride, as it makes sure the viewer is kept on the edge of their seat with the sudden plot twists.
8This Is Us (2016-2022)
This Is Usis a show that is sure to tap into all your emotions. This particular series focuses on the Pearson family, with Jack, played by Milo Ventimiglia, and Rebecca, played by Mandy Moore, (the parents) along with their three children navigating the hardships of life. Kevin, played by Justin Hartley, Kate, played by Chrissy Metz, and Randall, played by Sterling K. Brown, also known as the “Big Three”, are quite different to one another. The series uses flashbacks and flash-forwards to bring us the journey of the Pearson family. Brown states that the series “invites people who may be going through very real things, whether it’s personal ailment, family, divorce”. The ways in which viewers can connect to the series might be a key factor that brought many accolades toThis Is Us. Even though the series concluded in May 2022, it is highly unlikely that it will be forgotten easily.
Related:This Is Us: The Finale That Didn’t Leave Us In Tears
7Freaks and Geeks (1999-2000)
This 1999 TV show might’ve run for just one season, but it remains acult classicfor many reasons. What makesFreaks and Geeksstand out from the rest is its relatability. Rather than focusing on unrealistic teenagers who are either too cool or too popular for real-life teens, this particular show focuses on very realistic teenagers with very real problems. Thus, even after many years, the show is still very relatable. Looking back atFreaks and Geeks, we are able to see sometop-notch stars entering Hollywoodthrough this show. From Seth Rogen to James Franco and Jason Segel, these stars were not quite popular when they starred inFreaks and Geeks.
6The End of The F**cking World
This British dark comedy-drama is a hectic show that takes the viewer on a journey with two 17-year-olds. James, played by Alex Lawther, believes he is a psychopath, and focuses on the rebellious Alyssa (Jessica Barden), as his target. However, things take a turn when they run away together. James' initial intention seems to disappear, as the two begin to connect to one another. This adventure focuses on the two protagonists' ways of coping with life’s brutal challenges. It is definitely a unique series with many twists and turns.
5Never Have I Ever (2020-2023)
Mindy Kaling’sNever Have I Everbecame a major hit as soon as it was released on Netflix. The show has the perfect amount of comedy, with a narrator adding some interesting humor, as he narrates the protagonist, Devi’s (Maitreyi Ramakrishnan) journey as a teen. What makes this series interesting is its focus on a South Asian protagonist. It makes the show very relatable to Asian viewers as we see Devi’s strict mother, as well as her struggle with teen-hood as some connectable themes. Withseason 3 about to be released, there’s still much more to explore in Devi’s life.
4Normal People (2020)
Based on Sally Rooney’s infamous novel of the same name, this show focuses on the complicated relationship, as well as the complicated lives of Marianne (Daisy Edgar-Jones) and Connell (Paul Mescal). These two are quite contrary to one another, as the former is regarded as “odd” by her peers, while the latter is a high-achieving and popular student. The series takes the viewer through these two characters' lives as secondary school students and undergraduates. However, whatmakes the show brilliant, is that while focusing on the romance between these two protagonists, it also focuses on their personal struggles.
3Skins (2007-2013)
This is yet another show that remains a cult classic due to its realistic portrayal of teen-hood.Skinstakes a major leap in the coming-of-age genre by “pushing realism to its edge and exposing a raw, dark center”. Rather than portraying an all-fun and sugar-coated version of teen-hood,Skinsexplored the trivial, yet real issues that teens go through.From losing one’s virginity to losing confidence and going through the whirlwinds of friendships, this show did not attempt to glorify the typical issues that teenagers go through. Of course, there are exaggerations to invoke the comical effect. However, that does not reduce the realistic nature of the show.
2Sex Education (2019-Present)
As the title suggests, this British series is about a bunch of teenagers trying to navigate their sex lives as they explore the different realms of sex and sexuality.Sex Educationfollows the protagonist Otish (Asa Butterfield) as he tries to get close to his love interest Maeve (Emma Mackey) by first, starting therapy for his peers. What makes his therapy unique is that it is all about sex and one’s sexuality. The show does not merely invoke comedy and drama, as it also gives the viewer an idea as to the diverse natures of sex and sexuality. Thus,Sex Educationis one series that educates you while making sure you have an amazing watch.
Related:These Are Some of the Best TV Shows About Being a Teenager
1Euphoria (2019-Present)
HBO’sEuphoriais a show on “drama, drugs, sex, and trauma in a setting of heightened reality” that became quite popular and even started adding in new trends like the “Euphoria makeup”. Instantly, the viewer is dragged into the show through its impeccable casting, makeup, cinematography, and soundtracks. However, the show is much more than that.Euphoriatackles tough issues likeaddiction and mental health, without glorifying it. It is definitely one of the best shows that portrays a realistic image of teen struggles.
