Are you seeking laughter, heartfelt moments, and engaging narratives? Movies like The Late Bloomer capture our hearts and tickle our funny bones. It addresses the often awkward, sometimes hilarious, and definitely memorable experiences of growing up and finding oneself.
If you loved “The Late Bloomer,” directed by Kevin Pollak in 2016, here are 15 other similar movies that you might enjoy.
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1. The Fault In Our Stars (2014)
“The Fault in Our Stars” is a special movie directed by Josh Boone. It came out in 2014 and quickly became a favorite among audiences. The main stars of the film are Shailene Woodley and Ansel Elgort. They play the characters Hazel and Gus.
The movie falls into the romantic drama genre just like “The Late Boomer.” It’s as much of a love story as it is a tale about life and how fragile it can be. The focus of the movie is Hazel, a teenager with lung cancer.
She spends most of her time reading books. That’s until she meets Gus at a cancer support group. Gus is charming and funny, and he also has cancer. They form a deep bond.
“The Fault in Our Stars” is a story of young love tangled up in the harsh reality of illness. Despite its dark theme, it’s full of bright moments. Moments of joy, love, humor, and the celebration of life.
For anyone who enjoys heartfelt stories full of emotion, this movie is a must-see. It will make you laugh, cry, and appreciate the little things in life.
2. My Big Fat Greek Wedding 2 (2016)
“My Big Fat Greek Wedding 2” is a fun movie that made people laugh a lot when it was released in 2016. This movie was directed by Kirk Jones.
We see our favorite characters return from the first movie, like Nia Vardalos, who plays Toula, and John Corbett as her husband, Ian. There’s also a big group of actors who play Toula’s loud and loving Greek family.
The movie is a comedy, and it’s all about family and love. In this second part, the family comes together again for a huge, happy wedding. It’s not for Toula this time, though. It’s for her parents. They find out they were never officially married, so they decide to do it right!
Toula’s own little family has stuff going on too. Her daughter is getting ready to leave home for college. The movie is about sticking together as a family even when life changes.
People who enjoy watching funny stories about family life will get a kick out of “My Big Fat Greek Wedding 2.” It has lots of laughs, but also shows how families care for each other. It tells viewers that no matter what, your family will always be there, sometimes with a little too much food and advice.
3. Hello, My Name is Doris (2015)
“Hello, My Name is Doris” is a heartwarming movie that takes you on a quirky adventure. Directed by Michael Showalter, it was released in 2015.
This film stars Sally Field as Doris Miller, an older woman with a youthful spirit. Max Greenfield plays her younger co-worker, John, who becomes the object of her affection.
The movie is a mix of comedy and drama, often called a “dramedy.” It tells the story of Doris, who has lived a pretty quiet life, looking after her mother and going to her job. When she meets John, her world turns colorful. She starts having feelings for him and begins to see her life can be exciting.
Doris goes after what she wants and starts changing her style and attending parties. But the main story is about how Doris learns about herself. She discovers it’s never too late to chase your dreams or make big changes in your life.
“Hello, My Name is Doris” is both funny and touching. If you enjoy stories of self-discovery and blooming at any age, this movie will charm you. It shares a lovely message – Your age doesn’t define you or your happiness.
4. Love, Rosie (2014)
“Love, Rosie” is a beautiful movie about friendship and love. This film was directed by Christian Ditter and came out in 2014. The movie stars Lily Collins as Rosie and Sam Claflin as Alex, two best friends who have known each other all their lives.
The movie is a romantic comedy about Rosie and Alex. They are the best of friends and seem to be perfect for each other, except that they are never single at the same time.
The story starts when they are young and continues as they grow up, facing life’s ups and downs. The movie centers around their friendship and how they always find each other again, no matter what happens.
“Love, Rosie” is about emotions, friendships, making mistakes, and most importantly, love. It’s a rollercoaster ride of joy, laughter, heartbreak, and hope.
So, if you enjoy love stories where best friends could be more but can’t quite figure it out, “Love, Rosie” is a great movie to watch. It will make you laugh, cry, and hope for a happy ending.
5. Second Act (2018)
“Second Act” is an inspiring movie that tells a story of new beginnings. Released in 2018, it was directed by Peter Segal. The film features Jennifer Lopez as Maya, a hard-working woman with big dreams who thinks it’s too late to change her life. Alongside her, we see Vanessa Hudgens playing Zoe and Leah Remini as Maya’s best friend, Joan.
The movie belongs to the comedy and drama genres and is about getting another chance to prove yourself. Maya is really smart but she never had the chance to go to college. One day, she makes a wish for her life to have a fresh start, and surprisingly it comes true.
Maya gets a job at a big company in New York City by accident. There, she must prove that street smarts are just as good as book smarts. While she’s trying to succeed at her new dream job, she also learns important things about herself and her past.
“Second Act” is about not giving up, even when things look hard. If you like movies about making wishes and trying new things, you might really enjoy this one.
6. Finding Your Feet (2017)
“Finding Your Feet” is a heartwarming movie with a sprinkle of humor. Directed by Richard Loncraine, it was released in 2017. This special film stars Imelda Staunton as ‘Lady’ Sandra Abbott and Celia Imrie as her sister, Bif.
The movie is a mix of drama and comedy. It tells the story of Sandra, an uptight woman who discovers her husband of thirty years is having an affair. In shock, she moves in with her free-spirited sister, Bif, who lives a simple life on the other side of town.
Sandra’s life takes another twist when she’s reluctantly dragged to a community dance class. Here, amidst friendly faces, music, and laughter, she finds new joy in dance and in life.
“Finding Your Feet” is about rediscovering yourself when life hits a roadblock. It’s about finding happiness in unanticipated places and letting go of pride in favor of joy. If you are looking for an uplifting movie that celebrates new beginnings, “Finding Your Feet” is just the movie to watch.
7. Laggies (2014)
“Laggies” is a movie that explores growing up in a unique way. Directed by Lynn Shelton and released in 2014, it stars Keira Knightley as Megan, a young woman stuck in a rut, and Chloë Grace Moretz as Annika, a teenager who becomes an unlikely friend. Sam Rockwell also shines as Annika’s single dad.
This light-hearted movie is a comedy-drama, often called an indie film. It’s about Megan, who can’t quite get her life to move forward while everyone else seems to be on the right track. She’s at a point where she has to make big decisions but is too scared to take the next step.
During her friend’s wedding, Megan panics and ends up hiding out with Annika and her friends. She finds comfort in their simple, carefree world but knows she can’t stay there forever.
“Laggies” shows the struggles of being an adult and the fears that come with it. It teaches us that it’s okay to feel lost and that sometimes, we need to take a break to find our path. If you like movies about life’s awkward moments and finding your way, “Laggies” might be perfect for you. It’s a story about taking the time to grow up at your own pace.
8. Ashby (2015)
“Ashby” is a captivating movie that combines elements of drama, comedy, and action. The film, directed by Tony McNamara and released in 2015, features Nat Wolff as Ed Wallis, a teenager trying to find his place in the world, and Mickey Rourke as Ashby, a retired CIA assassin living his last days.
The story is about an unusual friendship between young Ed and his neighbor Ashby. Ed is figuring out life, dealing with school, and hoping to make the football team. When he gets an assignment to interview an older person, he turns to Ashby, not knowing about his CIA past.
The movie is centered on life’s lessons. Ed learns about love, courage, and facing his fears. As for Ashby, he’s dealing with his past actions while he mentors Ed. Their bond grows as they both confront their personal challenges.
“Ashby” is a story that shows how a unique friendship can change how we see the world. It’s about learning big life lessons from unlikely people. If you enjoy films about unexpected friendships and personal growth, “Ashby” might just be a film you’ll appreciate. It’s a touching reminder that people can always surprise us.
9. The Edge of Seventeen (2016)
“The Edge of Seventeen” is a relatable movie that captures the struggles of teenage years. Directed by Kelly Fremon Craig, it was released in 2016 and stars Hailee Steinfeld as Nadine and Woody Harrelson as Mr. Bruner, her high school teacher.
This film is a comedy-drama that hits home for anyone who’s ever been a teenager. It’s about Nadine, who feels even more alone when her best and only friend starts dating her popular older brother. Feeling betrayed and confused, she turns to her grumpy teacher Mr. Bruner, who offers blunt yet wise advice.
The movie revolves around coping with awkwardness, surviving high school, and learning about oneself. It portrays the ups and downs of teenage life, the intense feelings of loneliness, and the hunt for stable ground amidst all the changes.
“The Edge of Seventeen” paints a realistic picture of growing up. It speaks about complex feelings and figuring out who you really are. If you enjoy movies about navigating high school life and self-discovery, this one will surely appeal to you. It’s a heartfelt tale of adolescence – reminding us how tough it was, but also how rewarding figuring things out could be.
10. Easy A (2010)
“Easy A” is a lively and smart movie that redefines high-school dramas. Directed by Will Gluck, it was released in 2010, with Emma Stone playing the lead character, Olive Penderghast, and supporting roles from Amanda Bynes and Thomas Haden Church.
The movie falls into the comedy and drama genres. It showcases how a little white lie about Olive losing her innocence gets blown out of proportion. This rumor leads to her being viewed as the school’s bad girl, to which she decides to use to her advantage.
The film spins its story around reputation, rumors, and making the best out of weird situations. It’s a clever high-school tale that mixes humor with some important issues like moral and social judgment. It delivers a refreshing take on high school life that’s frequently comedic but surprisingly thoughtful, too.
If you enjoy films about high-school dynamics, with a dash of wit and sarcasm, “Easy A” is a great choice. It’s a funny and smart story about understanding yourself and challenging social norms.
11. Love, Simon (2018)
“Love, Simon” is a touching and eye-opening movie that delves into the journey of self-acceptance. Directed by Greg Berlanti, this 2018 heartfelt film stars Nick Robinson as Simon Spier. It also features Katherine Langford, Alexandra Shipp, and Jennifer Garner in pivotal roles.
The genre of the film is romantic comedy-drama. It pivots around Simon, a high school student with a loving family and great friends. But Simon has a secret: he’s gay. The story unfolds as he meets someone anonymously online from his school, who is also dealing with the same challenge.
The film explores friendship, love, and the fear of being rejected because of who you are. The movie treats its story with kindness, humor, and a lot of heart making it resonate with anybody who’s ever felt like they don’t quite fit in. The film is about finding courage, facing truths, and the support you can find in unexpected places.
12. American Pie (1999)
“American Pie” is an iconic movie that cleverly depicts the wins and woes of teenage life. Released in 1999, it was directed by Paul and Chris Weitz. The film’s main characters are played by Jason Biggs as Jim Levenstein, Chris Klein as Chris ‘Oz’ Ostreicher, and Thomas Ian Nicholas as Kevin Myers.
This film is best described as a comedy, focusing on the funny side of high school and growing up. A group of friends, anxiously awaiting the end of their high school days, make a pact: they’re all going to lose their virginity before graduating. Along the way, they face embarrassing situations, hilarious missteps, and the awkwardness of young love.
“American Pie” is all about the sometimes clumsy journey through adolescence. It’s about friendship, young love, and having fun while taking on life’s challenges. The film uses humor to convey life changes and growing pains, making it relatable to anyone who has been a teenager.
If you like comedies with laughs that can often make you wince, then “American Pie” is the movie for you. It’s a hilarious journey through the highs and lows of high school life that will make you remember your own teenage years.
13. Youth in Revolt (2009)
“Youth in Revolt” is a witty and clever movie that takes a humorous look at teenage transformation. Directed by Miguel Arteta, this 2009 film stars Michael Cera as Nick Twisp, an average teenager, and Portia Doubleday as his love interest, Sheeni Saunders.
This romantic comedy-drama centers around Nick, a socially awkward yet intelligent teenager, who gets a crush on free-spirited Sheeni. To win her heart, he creates a rebellious alter ego named François, who is suave, and adventurous and dares to do things that Nick never would.
“Youth in Revolt” is about the journey of self-discovery and the lengths one can go to win the heart of their crush. It encapsulates the trials and tribulations of teenage love, the intensity of first passions, and the funny yet often complex decisions it leads to.
The film creates a funny, yet, thoughtful portrayal of adolescent aspirations and love adventures. If you like movies about young love, teenage angst, and quirky humor, “Youth in Revolt” will definitely entertain you. It’s a charming reminder of our own youthful quests for love and identity.
14. Fast Times at Ridgemont High (1982)
“Fast Times at Ridgemont High” is a classic movie that captures the upbeat and challenging world of high school. Directed by Amy Heckerling, the 1982 film features a talented cast including Sean Penn as the iconic surfer dude Jeff Spicoli, Jennifer Jason Leigh as Stacy Hamilton, and Judge Reinhold as her older brother Brad.
As a comedy steeped in the vibe of the early ’80s, the movie gives us a peek into the lives of several students navigating their way through Ridgemont High. Every character has their own story: from first jobs to heartbreaks, and the pressure to fit in and find themselves. It showcases the bittersweet moments of being a teenager, including the awkward firsts and the pursuit of happiness and acceptance.
“Fast Times at Ridgemont High” provides a humorous yet authentic look at the trials of adolescence. It’s a film that anyone who has gone through or is going through high school can relate to. With its memorable characters and slice-of-life scenes, it’s a fun, nostalgic ride through teen life.
15. The Diary of a Teenage Girl (2015)
“The Diary of a Teenage Girl” is a bold and intimate movie that explores a teenager’s journey of self-discovery. The film was released in 2015. Marielle Heller is the director and stars Bel Powley as the young protagonist Minnie Goetze, alongside Alexander Skarsgard and Kristen Wiig.
This coming-of-age drama follows Minnie, an aspiring artist living in 1970s San Francisco, as she copes with the confusing world of adolescence and sexual exploration. The story unravels as Minnie enters into a secret relationship with her mother’s boyfriend. Vulnerable yet daring, she begins to record her life experiences in an audio diary.
The film dives into the complex emotions of teenage life and the challenge of finding one’s identity in a rapidly changing world. It shines a light on Minnie’s emotional turmoil, her growing desires, and the reality of non-idealized teenage experiences.
“The Diary of a Teenage Girl” is raw, unflinching, and honest, portraying a heroine who dares to embrace the messiness of self-discovery. If you appreciate films with strong, authentic characters and a fearless take on coming of age, this movie is a must-watch. It’s a compelling portrayal of self-expression and the courage to move beyond the confusion of youth.
Wrapping Up
I hope the above-mentioned films will help you to find comedy and romance like the one in “The Late Boomer.” Each of these 15 rom-com movies unravels an authentic story about adolescents entangled in the tricky web of growing up.
Like “The Late Bloomer,” the movie blends humor and heart to depict the rollercoaster of emotions that accompany this transformative journey. In fact, there are several other classic films just as Goodfellas or Grown Ups as well that blend laughter, tears, and self-discovery, these films are just like sure to resonate and leave a lasting impression. Happy watching!