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Ah, college. A time capsule of late-night cramming sessions fueled by questionable snacks, awkward social interactions that would make even Chandler Bing blush, and friendships forged in the fiery crucible of all-nighters and existential dread. Hollywood, bless its popcorn-loving soul, has taken a crack at capturing this whirlwind of emotions on film for decades.
But with the ever-evolving landscape of college life, can these classic portrayals truly resonate with the modern student struggling with social media anxieties, the gig economy, and the ever-present pressure of #adulting? Fear not, weary scholars! We’ve curated a list of the hottest releases from 2023 and 2024 that perfectly encapsulate the joys, anxieties, and sometimes downright weirdness of being a college/university student in the year of our lord, 2024. So, grab your oversized hoodie, dim the dorm room lights, and get ready to dive into these cinematic gems:
1. Emergency (2023): Navigating Race and Friendship in a World of Microaggressions
This critically acclaimed film isn’t your typical college romp-com. “Emergency” follows Kunle, a Black college student, as he attempts to help his best friend, another Black student named Zed, get their white classmate, Aubrey, safely home after a night of partying. What starts as a simple act of camaraderie takes a dark turn when they encounter racial profiling by the police. “Emergency” is a powerful and thought-provoking exploration of the complexities of race relations on campus, the ever-present threat of microaggressions, and the importance of supporting your friends, no matter the color of their skin.
Why it resonates with you: Feeling like the only one navigating the subtle (or not-so-subtle) biases of the college social scene? “Emergency” tackles these issues head-on, sparking conversations about race, privilege, and the importance of allyship.
2. Bodies Bodies Bodies (2022): When Your Friend Group Turns into a Horror Movie
Let’s face it, college friendships can be complicated. Add a hurricane, a remote cabin, and a dash of social media obsession, and you’ve got the recipe for a darkly comedic horror film like “Bodies Bodies Bodies.” This A24 gem throws a group of Gen Z friends together for a weekend getaway that quickly descends into chaos as secrets are revealed, accusations fly, and the body count starts to climb. “Bodies Bodies Bodies” is a hilarious and terrifying satire of our hyper-connected world, exploring themes of trust, betrayal, and the anxieties of young adulthood.
Why it resonates with you: Ever feel like your friend group operates on its own set of unspoken rules and inside jokes? “Bodies Bodies Bodies” hilariously captures the awkwardness and intensity of navigating college friendships, with a healthy dose of horror thrown in for good measure.
3. Along for the Ride (2022): A Summer of Self-Discovery (and Questionable Fashion Choices)
Feeling nostalgic for those carefree summer days before the college application frenzy? “Along for the Ride” follows Eli, a shy college student who embarks on a life-changing summer adventure with a free-spirited classmate named Phoebe. They spend their nights exploring hidden corners of their town, navigating first crushes, and confronting their deepest fears. “Along for the Ride” is a heartwarming coming-of-age story that celebrates the transformative power of friendship, stepping outside your comfort zone, and discovering who you truly are.
Why it resonates with you: Need a break from the pressures of college life? “Along for the Ride” offers a nostalgic escape filled with summer nights, quirky adventures, and the realization that sometimes, the most profound experiences happen outside the classroom.
4. Moonshot (2024): Space Exploration with a Dose of College Hijinks
Feeling a little burnt out on textbooks and lectures? Blast off on a cinematic adventure with “Moonshot,” a sci-fi comedy that follows a group of college students who attempt to sneak onto a one-way mission to Mars. Think “Animal House” meets “The Martian,” with a healthy dose of youthful ambition and a dash of social commentary. “Moonshot” is a hilarious exploration of chasing audacious dreams, the power of friendship, and the lengths some students will go to avoid a dreaded final exam.
Why it resonates with you: Ever feel like escaping the pressures of college life and reaching for the stars (literally)? “Moonshot” offers a welcome dose of absurdity and humor, reminding us that even the most outlandish dreams can be pursued, with a little ingenuity and a whole lot of determination (and maybe some questionable life choices).
5. Hello, Goodbye, and Everything In Between (2022): The Bittersweet Endings (and New Beginnings) of College
Graduation season is upon us, and with it comes a wave of emotions – excitement for the future, nostalgia for the past, and maybe even a touch of heartbreak. “Hello, Goodbye, and Everything In Between” captures this bittersweet feeling perfectly. The film follows two best friends, Clare and Aidan, who make a pact to break up before college to avoid the pain of a long-distance relationship. As their graduation day approaches, they must decide whether to stick to their pact or take a chance on love. “Hello, Goodbye, and Everything In Between” is a poignant reminder of the enduring power of friendship, the anxieties of new beginnings, and the bittersweet beauty of letting go.
Why it resonates with you: Facing the uncertainties of graduation and the end of an era? “Hello, Goodbye, and Everything In Between” explores these feelings with tenderness and humor, offering a comforting reminder that even in goodbyes, there’s always the promise of new beginnings.
6. The Kissing Booth 3 (2021): The College Application Frenzy (and Second Chances)
Okay, this one technically came out in 2021, but it perfectly captures the college application stress that consumes many a senior year. “The Kissing Booth 3” follows Elle as she juggles the pressures of standardized tests, college applications, and navigating a long-distance relationship with Noah. While not exactly an Oscar contender, it’s a lighthearted reminder of the ups and downs of the college application journey, sprinkled with a generous dose of teenage romance and the importance of following your heart (even if your heart leads you to a beach in Italy).
Why it resonates with you: Drowning in college applications and feeling the weight of expectation? “The Kissing Booth 3” offers a relatable and sometimes hilarious portrayal of the college application frenzy, reminding us that amidst the stress, there’s still room for love, laughter, and maybe even a second chance (just don’t tell your guidance counselor about the beach trip to Italy).
Bonus Pick: Anything Animated by Studio Ghibli
Feeling overwhelmed by the pressures of college life? Sometimes, the best escape is a complete departure from reality. Enter the whimsical world of Studio Ghibli. These Japanese animated films, with their breathtaking visuals and fantastical stories, offer a welcome escape into worlds of magic, wonder, and self-discovery. From the coming-of-age tale of “Spirited Away” to the ecological parable of “Princess Mononoke,” Studio Ghibli films offer a timeless reminder of the importance of imagination, perseverance, and staying true to yourself, no matter what life throws your way.
So there you have it! This curated selection of films offers a glimpse into the diverse experiences that college life can encompass. From thought-provoking social commentaries to hilarious rom-coms and fantastical animated adventures, there’s a movie on this list for every mood and every student. Remember, your college story is unique. So grab your popcorn, settle in with your friends (or your favorite pair of fuzzy pajamas), and get ready to laugh, cry, and maybe even learn a little something about yourself along the way.
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