Euphoria offers an insightful look into teenage mental illness. A powerful scene depicting Nadine open up about her emotions to her friend and teacher is powerfully emotive of this adolescent pain and solitude.
Dark comedy that delves deeply into family dynamics and mental well-being; essential viewing for anyone looking to understand depression’s effects in adolescents.
The Edge of Seventeen
Depression in adolescents can be difficult for adults to grasp. When students confide that they’re considering suicide to their teachers, that should not be seen as mere teenage drama; The Edge of Seventeen does not take this route with Nadine’s dialogue being taken seriously by all involved and not played up for humor or comic relief.
Hailee Steinfeld shines in this coming-of-age drama. While some characters may feel forced, and its production not up to par with other Sofia Coppola movies, the emotional storytelling and relatability make this standout among movies dealing with teenage depression.
This film will resonate with those who have ever felt out-of-place in their own lives. The message of this movie is that recovery from pain and confusion of adolescence is possible.
The Virgin Suicides
Sofia Coppola’s The Virgin Suicides is one of the classic movies about teenage depression, having had an impactful effect on generations and still relevant today. The story follows two sisters living in isolation after Cecilia attempts suicide; its focus is also highlighted through its emphasis on social engagements in teenagers’ lives.
The movie is disturbing because it shows the damage done by isolation of teenage girls and young women, leading them down a dark spiral towards self-destruction and suicide. Furthermore, this serves as a stark reminder of all of the pressure young girls and women experience today to be perfect as seen through media portrayals that don’t reflect reality – media’s unrealistic images leave lasting effects that impact them directly and irreparably.
Donnie Darko
Kelly captures the private pain and awkwardness associated with being a teenager through this sci-fi tale about Donnie, a young boy dealing with what appears to be otherworldly powers and his role in saving humanity from evil. From his rightwing father to his senile PE teacher, Donnie’s adult advisors do nothing more than conflict each other rather than providing clear direction for his future.
Jake Gyllenhaal’s performance as Donnie Darko in Darko has earned it cult classic status due to its compelling mix of disturbing realism. A blend of science fiction, spirituality and teenage angst, Donnie remains a powerful statement on depression and the challenges associated with being a teenager.
The Green Inferno
Eli Roth, best known for Cabin Fever and Hostel, delivers another riveting film in The Green Inferno: activists attempt to save an Amazon jungle tribe only to be taken hostage by cannibals they were meant to assist!
Depression makes people feel as though everything they do lacks meaning, their previous achievements no longer having any significance, and that everyone has abandoned them.
The Green Inferno is one of many movies exploring this feeling of depression and how it can change people into violent and psychotic individuals. The film does a fantastic job at portraying this transformation.
The Stranger
Undercover cops pose as criminal networks in order to track down and arrest Daniel Morcombe’s killer, 13. While names and details have been altered for dramatic effect, the plot based on real events. Australia remained transfixed throughout this saga for eight years!
Joel Edgerton stars in this gripping, stomach-churning Australian true crime drama. Though not for everyone, it remains an entertaining thriller worth viewing.
Harlan Coben is an award-winning master of suspense novels and films, such as his latest thriller, The Stranger. This cinematic masterpiece proves how one lie can destroy your perfect life – one not best watched while falling asleep; instead it demands your full focus and requires no sleep! Spoilers await!