I learned the truth at 17, that movie critics can be mean… but not to Hailee Steinfeld and her new movie The Edge of Seventeen, a high school dramedy starring Steinfeld as a neurotic hellcat on the cusp of adulthood. And if the reviews maintain their pace, then Edge will be a future alumni of this week’s 24 Frames gallery of Certified Fresh high school movies since 2000!
Me and Earl and the Dying Girl (2015, 82%)
Critics Consensus: “Beautifully scripted and perfectly cast, Me & Earl & the Dying Girl is a coming-of-age movie with uncommon charm and insight.”
Dope (2015, 89%)
Critics Consensus: “Featuring a starmaking performance from Shameik Moore and a refreshingly original point of view from writer-director Rick Famuyiwa, Dope is smart, insightful entertainment.”
Palo Alto (2014, 72%)
Critics Consensus: “A promising debut for director Gia Coppola, Palo Alto compensates for its drifting plot with solid performances and beautiful cinematography.”
The Spectacular Now (2013, 93%)
Critics Consensus: “An adroit, sensitive film that avoids typical coming-of-age story trappings.”
The Perks of Being a Wallflower (2012, 86%)
Critics Consensus: “A heartfelt and sincere adaptation that’s bolstered by strong lead performances.”
The Amazing Spider-Man (2012, 72%)
Critics Consensus: “A well-chosen cast and sure-handed direction allow The Amazing Spider-Man to thrill, despite revisiting many of the same plot points from 2002’s Spider-Man.”
Chronicle (2012, 85%)
Critics Consensus: “Chronicle transcends its found-footage gimmick with a smart script, fast-paced direction, and engaging performances from the young cast.”
21 Jump Street (2012, 85%)
Critics Consensus: “A smart, affectionate satire of ’80s nostalgia and teen movie tropes, offers rowdy mainstream comedy with a surprisingly satisfying bite.”
Submarine (2011, 86%)
Critics Consensus: “Funny, stylish, and ringing with adolescent truth, Submarine marks Richard Ayoade as a talent to watch.”
Kick-Ass (2010, 76%)
Critics Consensus: “Not for the faint of heart, Kick-Ass takes the comic adaptation genre to new levels of visual style, bloody violence, and gleeful profanity.”
Easy A (2010, 85%)
Critics Consensus: “It owes a huge debt to older (and better) teen comedies, but Easy A proves a smart, witty showcase for its irresistibly charming star, Emma Stone.”
An Education (2009, 94%)
Critics Consensus: “Though the latter part of the film may not appeal to all, An Education is a charming coming-of-age tale powered by the strength of relative newcomer Carey Mulligan’s standout performance.”
Hairspray (2007, 91%)
Critics Consensus: “An energetic, wholly entertaining musical romp; a fun summer movie with plenty of heart. Its contagious songs will make you want to get up and start dancing.”
Juno (2007, 94%)
Critics Consensus: One of the brightest, funniest comedies of the year, Juno‘s smart script and direction are matched by assured performances in a coming of age story with a 21st century twist.
Superbad (2007, 88%)
Critics Consensus: “An authentic take on friendship and the overarching awkwardness of the high school experience.”
Brick (2006, 80%)
Critics Consensus: “This entertaining homage to noirs past has been slickly and compellingly updated to a contemporary high school setting.”
Harry Potter & the Goblet of Fire (2005, 88%)
Critics Consensus: “The main characters are maturing, and the filmmakers are likewise improving on their craft with vibrant special effects and assured performances.”
Friday Night Lights (2004, 81%)
Critics Consensus: “An acute survey of the football-obsessed heartland that succeeds as both a stirring drama and a rousing sports movie.”
Mean Girls (2004, 84%)
Critics Consensus: “Funnier and more smartly written than the average teen comedy.”
Spider-Man (2002, 89%)
Critics Consensus: “Not only does Spider-Man provide a good dose of web-swinging fun, it also has a heart, thanks to the combined charms of director Sam Raimi and star Tobey Maguire.”
Better Luck Tomorrow (2002, 81%)
Critics Consensus: “A promising work by Justin Lin, the energetic Better Luck Tomorrow is disturbing and thought-provoking.”
Ghost World (2001, 92%)
Critics Consensus: ” With acerbic wit, Terry Zwigoff fashions Daniel Clowes’ graphic novel into an intelligent, comedic trip through deadpan teen angst.”
Donnie Darko (2001, 85%)
Critics Consensus: “A daring, original vision, packed with jarring ideas and intelligence and featuring a remarkable performance from Jake Gyllenhaal as the troubled title character.”
The Virgin Suicides (2000, 76%)
Critics Consensus: “Sofia Coppola’s successful directorial debut lies in the movie’s compelling story and the actors’ genuine emotions.”
