Films and TV shows that feel like Hard Times by Paramore
A danceable, brightly coloured song about sinking into sadness, where the groove and shine hide the ache underneath.
- Sing Street (2016): Bright 80s new wave pop that carries real teenage pain and longing.
- The Perks of Being a Wallflower (2012): Depression and fragile hope set to a soundtrack of alt-rock and new wave.
- Lady Bird (2017): A funny, sad portrait of growing up with feelings the characters can't quite name.
- Eighth Grade (2018): Awkward self-doubt and quiet resilience under a glossy, synth-heavy surface.
- Drive My Car (2021): A quiet, restrained film about grief and learning to keep going.
- BoJack Horseman (2014): Colourful, funny surfaces covering deep depression.
- Stranger Things (2016): Synth-soaked 80s nostalgia with real emotional weight underneath.
- Betty (2020): Young people finding their feet in a bright, wry, bittersweet world.