The Movies That Defined Gen Z: 15 Must-Watch Films That Shaped a Generation!

1. Booksmart 2019，IMDB Rating: 7.1, IMDB Votes: 132686, ID: 1489887
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Booksmart is a hilarious and heartwarming coming-of-age comedy that perfectly encapsulates the Gen Z experience. Olivia Wilde’s directorial debut follows two overachieving best friends, played by Beanie Feldstein and Kaitlyn Dever, as they embark on a wild night of partying before graduation. The film’s sharp writing, diverse cast, and authentic portrayal of teenage life make it a standout in the genre. Booksmart is a celebration of friendship, self-discovery, and the importance of letting loose, making it a must-watch for anyone looking to understand the spirit of Gen Z.
2. Do Revenge 2022，IMDB Rating: 6.3, IMDB Votes: 51738, ID: 13327038
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Do Revenge is a deliciously dark comedy that captures the essence of Gen Z’s obsession with social media and revenge. Camila Mendes and Maya Hawke deliver standout performances as two high school students who team up to take down their tormentors. The film’s sharp satire and clever references to classic teen movies make it a must-watch for anyone looking to understand the complexities of modern high school life. With its witty dialogue and stylish direction, Do Revenge is a film that will resonate with Gen Z viewers and leave them wanting more.
3. The Edge of Seventeen 2016，IMDB Rating: 7.3, IMDB Votes: 142190, ID: 1878870
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The Edge of Seventeen is a poignant and relatable coming-of-age film that captures the angst and awkwardness of adolescence. Hailee Steinfeld shines as Nadine, a high school junior navigating the complexities of friendship, family, and self-identity. The film’s sharp humor and heartfelt moments make it a standout in the genre, and its honest portrayal of teenage struggles will resonate with Gen Z viewers. With its strong performances and insightful writing, The Edge of Seventeen is a must-watch for anyone looking to understand the challenges and triumphs of growing up.
4. The Hate U Give 2018，IMDB Rating: 7.5, IMDB Votes: 40824, ID: 5580266
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The Hate U Give is a powerful and timely drama that tackles issues of race, identity, and social justice. Amandla Stenberg delivers a standout performance as Starr, a teenager who witnesses the police shooting of her best friend and must navigate the fallout. The film’s unflinching portrayal of systemic racism and its impact on communities of color makes it a must-watch for Gen Z viewers. With its compelling story and strong performances, The Hate U Give is a film that will leave a lasting impact and inspire important conversations.
5. Eighth Grade 2018，IMDB Rating: 7.4, IMDB Votes: 83131, ID: 7014006
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Eighth Grade is a painfully honest and deeply empathetic portrayal of the trials and tribulations of adolescence. Bo Burnham’s directorial debut follows Kayla, played by Elsie Fisher, as she navigates the final week of middle school. The film’s raw and authentic depiction of teenage anxiety and social media’s impact on self-esteem makes it a standout in the genre. Eighth Grade is a film that will resonate with Gen Z viewers and remind them that they are not alone in their struggles. With its heartfelt performances and insightful writing, Eighth Grade is a must-watch for anyone looking to understand the Gen Z experience.
6. Lady Bird 2017，IMDB Rating: 7.4, IMDB Votes: 335964, ID: 4925292
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Lady Bird is a heartfelt coming-of-age story that captures the essence of Gen Z’s quest for identity and independence. Saoirse Ronan’s portrayal of the titular character is both relatable and poignant, as she navigates the turbulent waters of adolescence and her strained relationship with her mother. Greta Gerwig’s direction brings a fresh and authentic voice to the film, making it a must-watch for anyone who has ever felt the pangs of growing up. The film’s emotional depth and humor make it a standout in the genre.
7. Blockers 2018，IMDB Rating: 6.2, IMDB Votes: 87078, ID: 2531344
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Blockers is a hilarious and heartwarming comedy that flips the script on the traditional teen sex comedy by focusing on the parents’ perspective. The film’s progressive take on sexuality and identity, combined with strong performances from Leslie Mann, John Cena, and Ike Barinholtz, makes it a refreshing and enjoyable watch. Its blend of raunchy humor and genuine emotion resonates with Gen Z’s open-minded and inclusive values. Blockers is a fun and entertaining film that also delivers a meaningful message about trust and communication.
8. Not Okay 2022，IMDB Rating: 6.1, IMDB Votes: 19166, ID: 14814040
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Not Okay is a sharp and satirical look at the superficiality of influencer culture and the commodification of trauma. Zoey Deutch’s portrayal of the unlikable protagonist, Danni Sanders, is both engaging and cringe-worthy, as she navigates the consequences of her lies. The film’s dark humor and social commentary make it a relevant and thought-provoking watch for Gen Z. While it may not add much new to the conversation, it effectively highlights the absurdity and dangers of seeking online fame at any cost.
9. Mid90s 2018，IMDB Rating: 7.3, IMDB Votes: 79321, ID: 5613484
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Jonah Hill’s directorial debut, Mid90s, is a nostalgic trip back to the pre-internet era, capturing the raw essence of youth culture through the eyes of a 13-year-old boy navigating a troubled home life and finding solace in a group of skaters. The film’s authenticity and emotional depth make it a standout, resonating with Gen Z’s appreciation for genuine storytelling and the exploration of identity and belonging.
10. The Fault in Our Stars 2014，IMDB Rating: 7.7, IMDB Votes: 404731, ID: 2582846
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The Fault in Our Stars is a heart-wrenching tale of love and loss, following two cancer-stricken teens who find solace in each other. Shailene Woodley’s performance as Hazel Grace Lancaster is both captivating and deeply moving, making this film a defining piece for Gen Z, who value emotional authenticity and the exploration of life’s profound challenges.
11. Love, Simon 2018，IMDB Rating: 7.5, IMDB Votes: 127393, ID: 5164432
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Love, Simon is a groundbreaking film that brings LGBTQ+ representation to the forefront of mainstream cinema. The story of Simon Spier’s journey to self-acceptance and love is both heartwarming and relatable, making it a must-watch for Gen Z, who champion diversity and inclusivity.
12. To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before 2018，IMDB Rating: 7.0, IMDB Votes: 125852, ID: 3846674
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To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before is a charming and relatable teen romance that captures the complexities of young love and identity. Lana Condor’s portrayal of Lara Jean Covey is endearing, making this film a favorite among Gen Z for its authentic representation of teenage emotions and relationships.
13. The Perks of Being a Wallflower 2012，IMDB Rating: 7.9, IMDB Votes: 553194, ID: 1659337
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The Perks of Being a Wallflower is a poignant coming-of-age story that delves into the struggles of adolescence, mental health, and the search for belonging. Logan Lerman’s portrayal of Charlie is both vulnerable and inspiring, resonating deeply with Gen Z’s emphasis on mental health awareness and the importance of genuine connections.
14. Moonlight 2016，IMDB Rating: 7.4, IMDB Votes: 334552, ID: 4975722
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Moonlight is a poetic exploration of identity, sexuality, and masculinity, told through the life of Chiron. Barry Jenkins’ masterful direction and the powerful performances, especially by Mahershala Ali, make this film a poignant and unforgettable experience. It beautifully captures the struggles and triumphs of a young black man in Miami, making it a defining film for Gen Z. The film’s lyrical storytelling and deep character work resonate with the themes of self-discovery and acceptance, which are central to the Gen Z experience.
15. The Bling Ring 2013，IMDB Rating: 5.6, IMDB Votes: 92749, ID: 2132285
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Sofia Coppola’s The Bling Ring offers a sharp critique of celebrity culture and the obsession with fame that defines Gen Z. Based on true events, the film follows a group of fame-obsessed teenagers who rob celebrities’ homes. Emma Watson’s standout performance and Coppola’s stylish direction highlight the superficiality and moral ambiguity of the characters. The film’s portrayal of the consequences of their actions serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of idolizing fame and materialism.