This Too Shall Pass Review: A Loving Tribute to the 80s Coming-of-Age Genre!

Rob Grant’s This Too Shall Pass is a nostalgic, free-spirited coming-of-age comedy that transports audiences to the heart of the 1980s — a decade defined by restless youth, vibrant fashion, and the uncertain pursuit of identity. Set against the backdrop of neon colors, and the cultural turbulence of 1987, the film revisits a time when teenage rebellion meant more than viral fame — it was about finding one’s place in a world that didn’t yet have all the answers. Grant, drawing inspiration from classics like Stand by Me and Dazed and Confused, creates a world that feels authentic to the era yet emotionally timeless, echoing the universal search for independence that transcends generations.

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The story centers on Simon, a 16-year-old growing weary of his suburban routine and the suffocating love of his family. Determined to experience life on his own terms, Simon sets off on a road trip to Canada with his best friends, hoping for a weekend of freedom and adventure. What begins as an innocent escapade soon turns into a cross-country odyssey of discovery, as they face a series of misadventures that force them to grow up faster than they expected. Along the way, they encounter eccentric strangers, personal truths, and emotional turning points that test their friendship and sense of self.

Where This Too Shall Pass shines most is in its clarity of vision and its heartfelt homage to the golden age of 1980s coming-of-age cinema. Rob Grant’s direction makes it clear that his intention isn’t just to mimic the style of those films, but to revive their soul — the warmth, the innocence, and the emotional authenticity that made them timeless. From its charming small-town backdrops to its evocative soundtrack and period-perfect production design, everything feels carefully crafted to transport viewers back in time.

The costumes, hairstyles, and makeup all radiate a genuine retro aesthetic without ever feeling exaggerated or forced. There’s a tactile richness in every frame — you can almost feel the texture of the leather jackets, the buzz of a record playing, or the nervous excitement of a first taste of freedom. For anyone who misses the sincerity and spirit of 80s teen dramas, this film serves as a delightful reminder of what made that era so special. It’s a refreshing, sentimental journey that celebrates not only the chaos of youth but also the timeless yearning to understand oneself amid the noise of growing up.

The performances across the board are heartfelt and genuine, with Maxwell James leading the pack as Simon. He brings a grounded vulnerability to the role that makes him incredibly easy to root for. Simon isn’t just another rebellious teen — his frustrations come from a place of genuine suffocation. Growing up in a strict Mormon household where every choice is dictated for him, his yearning for liberation feels both believable and deeply relatable. Maxwell captures that quiet rage and confusion of adolescence beautifully, never overplaying his emotions but letting them simmer just beneath the surface.

Katie Douglas, as Misty, is another standout. She has that effortless, girl-next-door charm that perfectly fits the 80s aesthetic — from her look to her attitude, she feels like someone lifted straight out of a John Hughes movie. The chemistry between the young cast members feels authentic and unforced, making their friendship dynamics ring true. Furthermore, the film’s third act ties everything together in a sweet, satisfying way — the kind of warm, hopeful ending that leaves you smiling. It’s the perfect culmination of the nostalgic energy the movie builds. However, the second act does lose a bit of steam. The pacing falters as certain subplots stretch longer than needed, and the momentum dips before the story finds its rhythm again in the final stretch.

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Still, This Too Shall Pass ultimately succeeds as a loving tribute to the coming-of-age genre. Rob Grant clearly understands what made those 80s films special — the heart, the humor, and the bittersweet edge of growing up. Despite a few narrative lulls, the film’s sincerity shines through. It’s a story about freedom, friendship, and self-discovery, told with the kind of honesty that feels increasingly rare in modern teen dramas. With its nostalgic charm, warm performances, and genuine emotion, This Too Shall Pass is both a celebration of youth and a reminder that even in moments of uncertainty, growth always follows — because, as the title promises, this too shall pass.

‘This Too Shall Pass’ Rating – 3.25/5