10 Great Movies Like Mean Girls

Tina Fey’s 2004 film Mean Girls was a brilliant satirization of the vicious social hierarchies and cliquish behaviors that make teenage years so outrageous and traumatic. The movie’s sharp wit and cringe-inducing yet comedic scenarios struck a chord.

In this blog post, we suggest 10 movies like Mean Girls. From cult classics like Heathers to more recent hits like Booksmart, these movies capture the harsh realities and micro dramas of being a modern teen with equal parts laughter and empathetic realism.

10 Movies Like Mean Girls

Here are 10 movies like Mean Girls that you might enjoy:

1. Clueless (1995)

“Clueless” is a quintessential teen comedy following Cher Horowitz, a fashionable and popular high school student who navigates the ups and downs of adolescence. Directed by Amy Heckerling and starring Alicia Silverstone, the film was both a critical and commercial success, grossing over $56 million worldwide. Its witty dialogue, iconic fashion, and satirical portrayal of teenage life make it a perfect companion to “Mean Girls.”

2. Easy A (2010)

“Easy A” stars Emma Stone as Olive Penderghast, a high school student who embellishes her social status by pretending to have sexual encounters. The film explores themes of gossip, reputation, and self-acceptance in a modern high school setting. Directed by Will Gluck, it received positive reviews for Stone’s performance and its clever script. It grossed over $75 million worldwide, resonating with audiences who appreciate smart teen comedies like “Mean Girls.”

3. Heathers (1988)

“Heathers” is a dark comedy that satirizes the social hierarchy of high school. Winona Ryder stars as Veronica Sawyer, who becomes involved with a manipulative clique led by Christian Slater’s character, J.D. The film looks into themes of popularity, peer pressure, and violence. Directed by Michael Lehmann, “Heathers” initially received mixed reviews but has since gained a cult following for its biting satire and memorable performances.

4. Jawbreaker (1999)

“Jawbreaker” follows a group of popular girls who accidentally kill their friend and try to cover it up. Directed by Darren Stein and starring Rose McGowan, Rebecca Gayheart, and Julie Benz, the film offers a dark and comedic take on high school politics. While it didn’t perform well at the box office, it has developed a cult following for its subversive humor and stylish aesthetic, appealing to fans of dark teen comedies like “Mean Girls.”

5. Bring It On (2000)

“Bring It On” is a comedy that revolves around rival cheerleading squads competing for championships. Starring Kirsten Dunst and Gabrielle Union, the film blends humor with themes of friendship, competition, and identity. Directed by Peyton Reed, it was a commercial success, grossing over $90 million worldwide. Its energetic performances and witty script have made it a beloved classic among fans of teen comedies like “Mean Girls.”

6. The DUFF (2015)

“The DUFF” follows Bianca, portrayed by Mae Whitman, who discovers she’s labeled the “Designated Ugly Fat Friend” in her social circle. Determined to defy stereotypes, she embarks on a journey of self-discovery with her friends. Directed by Ari Sandel, the film received mixed reviews but was praised for its humor and positive messages. It grossed over $43 million worldwide, resonating with audiences looking for relatable teen comedies akin to “Mean Girls.”

7. Legally Blonde (2001)

“Legally Blonde” stars Reese Witherspoon as Elle Woods, a fashionable sorority girl who enrolls in Harvard Law School to win back her ex-boyfriend. Directed by Robert Luketic, the film combines comedy with themes of empowerment and self-confidence. It was a commercial success, grossing over $141 million worldwide, and received positive reviews for Witherspoon’s performance and its empowering message. Its blend of humor and heart makes it a favorite among fans of feel-good comedies like “Mean Girls.”

8. Pitch Perfect (2012)

“Pitch Perfect” is a musical comedy following a college a cappella group’s journey to win a national competition. Starring Anna Kendrick and Rebel Wilson, the film combines humor with catchy musical performances. Directed by Jason Moore, it was a surprise hit, grossing over $115 million worldwide. Its ensemble cast and infectious energy have made it a favorite among audiences seeking fun comedies akin to “Mean Girls.”

9. Mean Girls 2 (2011)

A direct sequel to the original film, “Mean Girls 2” follows a new student who becomes embroiled in the social dynamics of her high school. While not as critically acclaimed as its predecessor, the film offers a similar blend of humor and satire. Directed by Melanie Mayron and featuring a new cast, it was released straight to television but still garnered attention from fans of the original “Mean Girls” for its continuation of the high school comedy formula.

10. She’s the Man (2006)

“She’s the Man” stars Amanda Bynes as Viola Hastings, who disguises herself as her twin brother to join the boys’ soccer team at his boarding school. Directed by Andy Fickman, the film is a modern retelling of Shakespeare’s “Twelfth Night” with a comedic twist. It was a commercial success, grossing over $57 million worldwide, and received praise for Bynes’ comedic performance. Its blend of humor and romance makes it a suitable choice for fans of teen comedies like “Mean Girls.”

Frequently Asked Questions

How do movies like “Heathers” and “Clueless” compare to “Mean Girls”?

Movies like “Heathers” and “Clueless” offer satirical takes on high school cliques and teenage life similar to “Mean Girls.” They provide sharp humor and looks into social dynamics in unique ways that resonate with audiences looking for films with a mix of comedy and commentary on high school experiences.

What themes do movies like “Bring It On” and “Easy A” explore?

Movies like “Bring It On” and “Easy A” bring humor and girl power to the screen while exploring themes of friendship, identity, and empowerment. They showcase strong female leads who navigate high school challenges with wit and charm, creating entertaining and relatable narratives that appeal to audiences looking for uplifting and comedic stories.

How does “Mean Girls 2” differ from the original film?

“Mean Girls 2” offers a continuation of the original film by introducing new characters and conflicts within the teenage social hierarchy. While retaining the essence of the original film’s humor and sharp wit, “Mean Girls 2” explores fresh storylines and character dynamics that provide viewers with a mix of familiar elements and new twists on the classic high school comedy genre.