Hello fellow 30 somethings, or people who are almost there. I turned 30 back in February (2023), and it’s been great. I know I just got here, to an epic decade of not caring too much, but also being young enough to have fun, but I love it. This is better than the end of my 20’s was. 27, 28, and 29 were a waste of anxiety over my 20’s ending. I decided to list some films that are a must watch for your 30’s (or almost 30’s).

Fever Pitch (2005)

A 30 year old man child in Boston loves nothing more than the Red Sox, until he meets a businesswoman who just might be better than a baseball game. They begin dating, and she’s willing to deal with his love of the team, but she struggles with not being his first love. He can’t see the mistake he’s making. This romantic comedy shows us how to hold onto your youth, but also enter the real world.

Now and Then (1995)

Set in the summer of 1970 four 12 year old girls come of age, and realize how their bond is the most important thing. As adults in their mid to late 30’s they have been able to stay friends and value that summer, while also embracing their present, and most importantly their future. It’s about always holding on to your former self, and that can actually prepare you to accept your present and future.

The Brothers (2001)

The characters in this film are actually 28 and 29, but the actors were in their 30’s, and I can’t help but see the few years difference. It’s their level of confidence. That chill kind of confidence you just have in your 30’s. It makes it better though, since I can also use this film for my current decade. I think anyone an relate though. The main character is worried about turning 29, while his sister is 18 and about to go to college, an his parents are in their late 40’s.

The Slayer (1982)

Two couples in their 30’s from NYC are living their best lives, and then go on a trip. They appear to be childfree, which is something a lot of couple are facing today for one reason or another. It’s nice to watch a movie focused on happy adults. It’s a horror movie, so of course everything goes wrong, but it was nice to see anyone over the age of 22 having fun. I want to be clear, kids are wonderful, but today’s world is very expensive, and some people don’t even want kids. I wouldn’t want to see little kids terrorized anyways, so I really liked this horror movie.

Waiting to Exhale (1995)

Women of various ages dealing with the lows of life, but highs in themselves, and from their friendships. Life doesn’t stop changing at 30, and you don’t have to put up with certain things either. It’s ok to be independent and happy. Friendships can carry you further than romance, since it’s a different kind of love.

Keeping the Faith (2000)

The characters ages are never actually said, but based on when they were kids they are either 29 or 30. A hilarious film with a somber love triangle. You’d think one of the guys becoming a priest would make things easier, but it’s still a love triangle. An adorable boy/girl next door love story set in NYC.

Love Jones (1997)

While the romance between the main couple is amazing, it’s the bond of the friend group that makes you envy their lives. These have deep long lasting friendships that feel like family ties. For a lot of 30 somethings this is the dream. The characters ages are never said, but they appear to be spread between their 20’s and 30’s, based on certain life markers.

The Big Chill (1983)

A group of former college friends have a reunion. It’s bittersweet because a funeral of another friend is what brought them back together. It’s an ode to how important friendships made during your early adult years can be. You were all just kids technically, and now adulthood has really started to set in. It’s also especially nice to see a reunion that isn’t about former high school classmates, because you were actually kids in those day. Experiences before 25 will definitely have an affect on your real adult years. Your parents weren’t in charge of you, but your mind is still settling in. No one wants to reunite over a funeral, but reconnecting with people is something 30 somethings long for.

To the Wonder (2013)

Remember the time your boyfriend wanted you to move to France to Oklahoma? Well, that’s part of the plot of this film. An artistic film all about changes. It’s a lot better than I’m describing, but it’s definitely for people who like arthouse films.

My Big Fat Greek Wedding (2002)

A single woman who has reached 30. This mattered a little more in 2002, and in Toula’s traditional Greek family. Perfect for anyone feeling behind. It’s obviously much more as it’s a well known family story that’s especially good for people following a culture that isn’t defined as the typical American experience.