With the arrival of Freakier Friday, it seems like the right time to take a look at some classic teen films…
10 Things I Hate About You: it is difficult not to appreciate the sharp wit if this contemporary take on Shakespeare’s Taming of the Shrew. Julia Stiles is absolutely perfect as the defensive and cynical Kat, whose vulnerability increasingly shines through as the story unfolds and her character’s unique approach to life. She is well matched not only by the charisma of Heath Ledger’s Patrick but the whole ensemble that showcase the cringiness of having to grow up and trying to fit in with your peers.
Mean Girls: the original film really resonated with me as it really highlights just how being a teenager in secondary/ high school forms an important part of the type of person that you want to become in the future. Rachel McAdams is sharp as the despicable Regina George, queen of the plastics (and a character who we have all had some experience of), while Lindsay Lohan as Cady the home schooled teenager who finds herself caught in the plastics game feels suitably naive and relatable. The film features plenty of lines that are still quotable today – that’s so fetch.
Freaky Friday: having re-watched this recently in preparation for Freakier Friday coming out, this film is a great watch because it is relatable for mothers and daughters trying to figure each other out – particularly as teenage daughter is trying to figure themselves out. By re-evaluating the mother and daughter relationship and all its pitfalls, Freaky Friday is hilarious from start to finish as Tess and Anna are put in each other’s shoes.
American Pie: this is probably one of the most frankest teenage comedies on the list that really highlights the different approaches to relationships that can be a little bit cringeworthy in places (ok very cringeworthy)but yet somehow endearing at the same time. It is interesting by telling the story of the pressure of having sex from the perspective four teenage boys showcases that no matter the peer pressure from those around the same age actually highlights individual insecurities about our lives as a whole. Is the humour over the top? Yes but the messages of friendship and growth in personality and emotional understanding really ring true by the end of the film.
She’s the Man: inspired by Shakespeare”s Twelfth Night, this coming of age of story feels great to mention as Viola never stops fighting for what she wants: to be taken seriously as a football player leading to the many hilarious misunderstandings that occur during the film. It is a true coming of age story that reminds teenagers to never truly hide who you are at any cost and fight to be heard!