Reese Witherspoon's Movie Debut Was This '90s Coming-of-Age Masterpiece Roger Ebert Called a "Victory"

While a good coming-of-age film can connect with audiences that see themselves represented onscreen, a truly great entry in the genre can address universal themes of growing up that any viewer can relate to, regardless of their age or background. Aspects of adolescence will be tied to the era, social circle, and economic standing of the protagonist, but an all-encomassing film can tackle universal truths that make the story so approachable. It is rare to see a coming-of-age film that is so inviting, as channeling this sense of youthful optimism, confusion, and anxiety is not an easy task. However, The Man in the Moon is an underrated gem about the innocence of childhood , which Roger Ebert said had a “poetic, bittersweet tone.” Ebert applauded its ability to “avoid the sentimen