Settle into spring break with a movie on any platform
Some may say that the classic ‘80s teen rom-coms are cliché or overdone. While I disagree, there’s no denying that more recent films of the same genres are just as fun to watch and provide new, modern perspectives. So over spring break, expand your movie knowledge and check out these three underrated coming-of-age comedies from different streaming platforms.
For the comedy…
“Scott Pilgrim vs. the World” on Netflix
This 2010 cult favorite, based on the “Scott Pilgrim” graphic novel series, is a live action comic book, where 22 year-old Scott Pilgrim (Michael Cera) must face off against love interest Ramona Flowers’ seven evil exes before the two can date. Superhero-level fight scenes, clever dialogue, a great soundtrack, editing and a unique sense of self-awareness makes this movie, even with its niche video game or music references, an exciting watch. In addition to Cera, the cast is comprised of many recognizable faces, including Chris Evans, Brie Larson, Anna Kendrick and Aubrey Plaza.
For the relatability…
“Booksmart” on Hulu
“Booksmart” is the Gen Z, high school movie you’ve been waiting for and is bound to be relatable for any Lab student. When two graduating seniors (Kaitlyn Dever and Beanie Feldstein), who have avoided partying in favor of studying in order to get into their choice colleges, discover that their more wild classmates are also going to top schools, they decide to make up for four years of high school fun in one night. “Booksmart” turns the nerd-turned-cool trope up on its head, straying away from traditional stereotypes and instead celebrating female friendship and nerd culture everywhere.
For the nostalgia…
“Mid90s” on Amazon Prime
Written and Directed by Jonah Hill, “Mid90s” is perfectly nostalgic, beautiful, and heartbreaking all in one. With a more serious, though still comedic, tone than “Booksmart” or “Scott Pilgrim vs. the World,” “Mid90s” captures the essence of, well, the mid-’90s skate culture of Los Angeles. Aesthetically, it’s a joy to look at, and even if you aren’t a skateboarding 13 year-old boy from California, “Mid90s” still speaks to the universal tribulations of growing up.
For coming of age…
“The Spectacular Now” on Netflix
I’m hesitant to recommend another film by A24, but they just do this type of movie so well (e.g. “Lady Bird,” “The Farewell,” “Eighth Grade” and “Moonlight”).
After getting dumped by his girlfriend, Cassidy, who happens to be played by Brie Larson, the ex-girlfriend in “Scott Pilgrim vs. the World,” party animal and cool-guy Sutter Teely (Miles Teller) meets shy, smart-girl Aimee (Shaileen Woodley). Romance ensues.
A morally gray Sutter struggles with finding purpose beyond graduation and gets caught between trying to live in the now and planning for the future. As he and Aimee grow closer, their relationship is a means to examine the complex social and power dynamics of high school.
