Exploring Three Iconic Coming of Age Films

 The opening sequence of a coming of age film creates the tone for the protagonist's journey, which often blends nostalgia and emotional techniques to fully evaluate the emotional struggles of youth. In preparation for my portfolio project, I researched and evaluated three well known films in the genre: The Perks of Being a Wallflower (2012), Lady Bird (2017), and the only of the films I had previously seen, Ferris Bueller's Day Off (1986) Each employs unique cinematic techniques to establish themes of self discovery, rebellion, and personal development/growth.

The Perks of Being a Wallflower (2012)- A quiet intro into the world of an outsider.

This film opens with the opening credits, as the camera moves as if in a vehicle. There is music in the background, which is then joined by a voiceover, narrated by protagonist Charlie, immediately immersing the audience in his introspective world. He is narrating a letter, depicting himself to the letters recipient, as well as the viewers. This is something I would like to captivate in my project. He continues to describe what he will do on the first day of school, while the audience is shown what actually happens on that day

The tunnel's darkness, contrasted with the glow of the city metaphorically represents Charlie's transition from isolation to acceptance. As well, the use of soft lighting and a melancholic score underscrores Charlie's loneliness, while his voiceover provides an intimate look into his thoughts. This opening effectively establishes the film's themes of mental health, friendship, and finding one's place in the world. The narration foreshadows and sets up Charlie's struggles with trauma and further develops the emotional depth that would go on to frontline the film.

Lady Bird (2017)- A sudden leap into conflict

Greta Gerwigs's Lady Bird begins with Christine (Lady Bird) and her mother laying in bed listening to an audio book. This peaceful moment is shortlived though, as they begin to argue once entering the car. The argument then culminates in Lady Bird jumping out of the moving car, leaving her with a cast.

The sequence is humorous while also being insightful, encapsulating the central focus and conflict of the film to come: Lady Bird's desperate desire for independence and freedom, contrasted with her mother's simultaneous love and criticism, which Lady Bird often voices her disgust towards. The handheld shots make the viewer feel almost as a third party observing this raw emotional encounter. Gerwig's creative use of quick, snappy dialogue immediately establishes the film's wit and emotional depth, preparing viewers for a heartfelt but still comedic exploration of the teen years.

 

Ferris Bueller’s Day Off (1986)- Breaking the Fourth Wall

John Hughes' Ferris Bueller's Day Off opens with one of the most iconic and recognizable voiceovers in film. The main protagonist Ferris, addresses the audience directly, breaking the fourth wall to explain how he is faking being sick to get out of school. His laid back demeanor, exaggerated coughing, and mischievous tone instantly establish him as a charming, conniving main character. 

This sequence sets the comedic and quick witted tone of the film, with Ferris demonstrating complete control over his situation. The colorful lighting, upbeat music, and exaggerated performance make it clear the premise of this movie is not going to be just on skipping school, but about embracing life how it is "meant to be lived". Hughes masterfully introduces Ferris as someone who defies authority with charm, and smarts leading to the audience being drawn into his antics from the beginning.

Each of these openings plays a crucial role in defining their respective protagonists and how they interact with their world.  The Perks of Being a Wallflower introduces emotional depth, Lady Bird highlights generational conflict and humor, while Ferris Bueller's Day Off establishes its fast paced, rule breaking spirit. In addition to captivating the viewer, these opening scenes set the stage for the life changing experiences that characterize the coming of age genre.