Coming of Age Films

A coming of age story focuses on the following: A protagonist who is Socially or psychologically maturing Receiving an “education” but not just in a traditional school

The character’s growth begins when He/she is faced with loss or discovery… Character may lose innocence Character may struggle with knowledge that the adult world is complex Character may find the “absolutes” of childhood no longer exist ( there is not always a right or wrong answer) A mentor is present who helps them on their journey, but sometimes can be a negative mentor

The character’s growth is shown by Clashes between what he/she wants and rules of society The character trying to establish his/her own rules The character trying to become an active participant in the world

Sometimes the films contain An initiation, trial, or rite of passage Religious ceremony, membership in a club, birthday, etc.

Sometimes the films contain An epiphany… a sudden realization of truth about him/herself or the world An epiphany sometimes includes seeing the world for what it really is or people for who they are An epiphany is sometimes called an “aha” moment.

Sometimes the films contain Loss of innocence Common symbols are fruit, gardens/forests, purity that has spoiled or gone rotten

Sometimes the films contain A journey, real or symbolic The protagonist has a dream, strives for a particular goal, or seeks the object of a quest Obstacles stand in the way of the dream and opportunities open up for them Sometimes the protagonist loses heart or gets discouraged and someone else has to hold onto the dream for them At the beginning they are insufficient to the task and have to develop some aspect of their character in order to attain their goal