20 Movies to Watch Before You Turn 20

Movies are a powerful way to experience different perspectives, learn valuable life lessons, and simply have a good time. As you navigate through your teenage years, certain films can leave a lasting impact, helping you understand the world around you and yourself a little better. This list of 20 movies has been carefully curated to include films that are not only entertaining but also age-appropriate for younger audiences.

Why These 20 Movies Are a Must-Watch Before You Turn 20

When creating this list, I focused on selecting movies that offer meaningful messages, relatable experiences, and a mix of genres to cater to different tastes. The films chosen are suitable for younger viewers, balancing entertainment with life lessons that resonate with the journey from childhood to adulthood. The majority of these movies are rated PG or PG-13, ensuring they are appropriate for teens while still being engaging and thought-provoking.

1. The Lion King (1994)

A timeless story of courage, family, and self-discovery, "The Lion King" is a must-watch for its beautiful animation and unforgettable music.

Rating: G (General Audience)

5/ The Lion King

That first “Ah Zebanya” hits hard with the sun rising at the same time.

Then there’s so much going on — lions roaring, birds chirping, and zebras running.

It’s the perfect introduction to the world before Simba is introduced over Pride Rock. pic.twitter.com/udnsnVXED3

— Nathan Baugh (@nathanbaugh27) December 8, 2022

2. The Truman Show (1998)

This thought-provoking film explores the concepts of reality and freedom through the life of a man unknowingly living in a reality TV show.

Rating: PG (Parental Guidance)

3. Mean Girls (2004)

A witty and insightful comedy about high school social dynamics and the importance of staying true to yourself.

Rating: PG-13 (Parents Strongly Cautioned)

4. The Pursuit of Happyness (2006)

A heartwarming story about perseverance, determination, and the bond between father and son.

Rating: PG-13 (Parents Strongly Cautioned)

5. 10 Things I Hate About You (1999)

A modern adaptation of Shakespeare's "The Taming of the Shrew," this romantic comedy is both charming and relatable.

Rating: PG-13 (Parents Strongly Cautioned)

6. Ferris Bueller's Day Off (1986)

A fun and rebellious adventure that captures the essence of teenage freedom and the importance of enjoying life.

Rating: PG-13 (Parents Strongly Cautioned)

7. The Fault in Our Stars (2014)

A touching romance about two teenagers dealing with love, life, and illness in the most unexpected ways.

Rating: PG-13 (Parents Strongly Cautioned)

8. Juno (2007)

This quirky and heartwarming film addresses teen pregnancy with humor, grace, and a unique perspective.

Rating: PG-13 (Parents Strongly Cautioned)

9. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone (2001)

The start of a magical journey that has captivated audiences worldwide, this film is perfect for young and old alike.

Rating: PG (Parental Guidance)

10. The Hunger Games (2012)

A thrilling dystopian adventure that challenges ideas about society, survival, and the human spirit.

Rating: PG-13 (Parents Strongly Cautioned)

11. Finding Nemo (2003)

An endearing tale of a father's love and a son's courage, "Finding Nemo" is a journey filled with humor and heart.

Rating: G (General Audience)

12. Back to the Future (1985)

A time-traveling adventure that combines science fiction, comedy, and action in a way that remains timeless.

Rating: PG (Parental Guidance)

13. Spirited Away (2001)

This beautifully animated film from Studio Ghibli explores themes of identity, courage, and friendship in a fantastical world.

Rating: PG (Parental Guidance)

14. The Princess Bride (1987)

A fairy tale filled with adventure, romance, and wit, "The Princess Bride" is a beloved classic for all ages.

Rating: PG (Parental Guidance)

15. The Incredibles (2004)

A superhero family must balance saving the world with everyday life in this fun and action-packed animated film.

Rating: PG (Parental Guidance)

16. Akeelah and the Bee (2006)

A heartwarming story of a young girl’s journey to the National Spelling Bee, emphasizing the power of determination and community.

Rating: PG (Parental Guidance)

17. To Kill a Mockingbird (1962)

A powerful film about justice and racism, based on the classic novel, that still resonates today.

Rating: Not Rated (Treat as PG)

18. E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982)

A touching story about friendship and belonging, as a young boy befriends an alien stranded on Earth.

Rating: PG (Parental Guidance)

19. The Goonies (1985)

A group of kids discover an old pirate map and embark on a thrilling adventure to find hidden treasure. Filled with action, humor, and the unbreakable bonds of friendship, The Goonies is a fun and nostalgic film that captures the spirit of childhood adventure.

Rating: PG (Parental Guidance)

20. The Sandlot (1993)

A nostalgic and fun film about the joys of childhood, friendship, and playing baseball during summer.

Rating: PG (Parental Guidance)

More: 20 Must-Read Books Before You Turn 20

Conclusion

These 20 movies are not just a way to pass the time; they're a collection of stories that offer important life lessons, memorable characters, and unforgettable moments. Watching them before you turn 20 will give you a deeper understanding of different perspectives and help shape your outlook as you grow. So grab some popcorn, find a cozy spot, and enjoy these cinematic treasures.