The 55+ Best Rated-R Movies For Teens

Over 600 Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The 55+ Best Rated-R Movies For Teens
Voting Rules
Vote up your favorite R-rated teen movies.
Latest additions: Landscape With Invisible Hand, Children of the Corn
Most divisive: Scary Movie 2

Here is a list of R-Rated teen movies, ranked from best to worst by users like you. Find these and more great movies for teens that are streaming on the Best Comedy Movies on Netflix, The Best Comedy Films on Amazon Prime, The Best horror Movies on Netflix, The Best horror Movies on Amazon Prime, and best dramas that are on both Netflix and Amazon Prime. 

This list takes the best R-rated teen movies and compares them against each other to determine once and for all the greatest R-rated teen movie of all time. This list of popular R-rated teen movies includes information like who directed the film, when it was released and which actors starred in the movie. If you think the top R-Rated teen movie isn't as high as it should be then be sure to vote it up so it can take its rightful place among the other great R-rated teen films on this list.

If you're trying to find a specific R-rated Teen film you can search this list and filter to find what you're looking for. Movies on this list include The Lost Boys and Halloween. If you're trying to find out "What are the best R-rated teen movies?" and "What are the most famous R-rated teen movies?" then this list is the perfect resource for you.

Use this list if you're looking for some new teen movies that are rated R. Between Netflix, Hulu and other services there are thousands of great teen movies rated R, so get out there and start watching. Share what you voted on to see if your friends agree.

What kind of directors have worked on Teen R movies in the past? Sofia Coppola and Kathryn Bigelow both have, as have other great directors.

Ranked by
  • The Breakfast Club
    1
    Emilio Estevez, Molly Ringwald, Judd Nelson
    221 votes
    • Released: 1985
    • Directed by: John Hughes

    This classic R-rated teen movie, directed by the legendary John Hughes, resonates with audiences due to its honest portrayal of high school stereotypes and the challenges faced by different cliques. Starring Emilio Estevez, Molly Ringwald, Judd Nelson, and Ally Sheedy, it tells the story of five diverse characters forced to spend a Saturday together in detention, sharing their deepest secrets, fears, and aspirations. The Breakfast Club has become a timeless coming-of-age tale that brilliantly captures teenage angst, rebellion, and self-discovery.

    Available On:

    subscription

  • Stand by Me
    2
    Wil Wheaton, River Phoenix, Corey Feldman
    125 votes
    • Released: 1986
    • Directed by: Rob Reiner

    A heartwarming coming-of-age film adapted from a Stephen King novella, this Rob Reiner-directed movie centers on four young friends - played by Wil Wheaton, River Phoenix, Corey Feldman, and Jerry O'Connell - embarking on an unforgettable adventure to find a missing boy's dead body. Set in a small Oregon town during the summer of 1959, Stand by Me poignantly showcases the bittersweet memories and bonds of childhood friendships while delving into themes like loyalty, bravery, and loss.

    Available On:

    subscription

  • The Lost Boys
    3
    Jason Patric, Corey Haim, Dianne Wiest
    102 votes
    • Released: 1987
    • Directed by: Joel Schumacher

    This cult classic, directed by Joel Schumacher, offers a unique blend of horror, comedy, and teen romance that has made it an enduring favorite among fans. Set in the California coastal town of Santa Carla, siblings Michael (Jason Patric) and Sam (Corey Haim) move with their divorced mother only to discover that their new home is infested with vampires led by the charismatic David (Kiefer Sutherland). Featuring memorable performances from Corey Feldman and Jamison Newlander as the vampire-hunting Frog brothers, The Lost Boys skillfully combines thrilling supernatural action with a touch of adolescent angst and humor.

    Available On:

  • Cruel Intentions
    4
    Sarah Michelle Gellar, Ryan Phillippe, Reese Witherspoon
    121 votes
    • Released: 1999
    • Directed by: Roger Kumble

    An edgy and provocative adaptation of Pierre Choderlos de Laclos's Les Liaisons dangereuses, Cruel Intentions remains a must-watch for its iconic performances by Sarah Michelle Gellar, Ryan Phillippe, and Reese Witherspoon. Set in an elite Manhattan prep school, this tale of seduction, betrayal, and revenge explores the dark side of adolescent relationships and status-seeking through calculating step-siblings Kathryn Merteuil (Gellar) and Sebastian Valmont (Phillippe). Known for its sizzling chemistry and dramatic twists, Cruel Intentions has earned its place as an R-rated teen classic.

    Available On:

    subscription

    free

  • Halloween
    5
    Donald Pleasence, Jamie Lee Curtis, Nancy Kyes
    112 votes
    • Released: 1978
    • Directed by: John Carpenter

    As one of the most popular slasher films in cinematic history, John Carpenter's Halloween is undeniably a must-watch R-rated teen movie. The thrilling narrative follows high school student Laurie Strode (Jamie Lee Curtis) as she is targeted by Michael Myers, one of the most terrifying and iconic villains imaginable. With its heart-pounding suspense and chilling score, Halloween set the standard for horror films and cemented its place in popular culture.

    Available On:

    subscription

    free

  • Fast Times at Ridgemont High
    6
    Sean Penn, Jennifer Jason Leigh, Judge Reinhold
    121 votes
    • Released: 1982
    • Directed by: Amy Heckerling

    Directed by Amy Heckerling and written by Cameron Crowe, Fast Times at Ridgemont High is an iconic teen comedy that captures both the hilarity and turmoil of high school life. The ensemble cast – which includes memorable performances from Sean Penn, Jennifer Jason Leigh, and Judge Reinhold – navigates the awkward world of first jobs, heartbreak, and unforgettable parties. Featuring standout scenes like Spicoli's pizza delivery in history class, this coming-of-age story remains relevant and humorous even decades after its release.

    Available On:

    subscription

    free