Time to revisit teen movies?

Twenty years after its initial release, Mean Girls is once again playing in a theater near you.

Heck yes.

But hold up — this version doesn’t star a pre-problematic Lindsey Lohan. This is a remake of the cinematic treasure from the early (n)oughties, adapted to address the challenges facing today’s teens.

However, the updates are reported to be few and far between.

Why?

According to New York Times movie critic Manohla Dargis:

“Few stories, it turns out, are as comically and horrifyingly reliable as those set in high school; few villains are as dependably hissable as a desirable young woman with an ostensibly cold heart.”

This got me thinking of other PG-13 classics from the golden age of teen movies, and how the challenges the characters from these films face are still hugely relevant to kids today.

So I present to you, fresh from my trip down memory lane, five flicks that you should definitely re-watch with your kids—

—and tips for how to squeeze some good ol’ fashioned life lessons out of ‘em.

Clueless (1995)

Aside from coining the popular idiom “as if", Clueless teaches the importance of empathy and self-discovery. Cher's journey from a superficial high schooler to a more self-aware and compassionate person is a powerful lesson in personal growth.

Scene to pay attention to: When Cher realizes she has feelings for Josh and begins to understand the depth of her own superficiality.

Discuss with your kid: How do you think Cher's understanding of herself and others changed throughout the movie?

10 Things I Hate About You (1999)

Inspired by Shakespeare's The Taming of the Shrew, this film highlights the themes of authenticity and not judging others based on first impressions.

Scene to pay attention to: Kat's poem reading in class, revealing her true feelings about Patrick and herself.

Discuss with your kid: Why do you think being authentic is important, and how did Kat demonstrate this?

BONUS — Read or go see a production Taming of the Shrew together after watching the movie!

She’s All That (1999)

She’s All That may seem a tad superficial on the outside, but the theme showcases the transformation of characters who learn to look beyond external appearances and social status, valuing people for who they truly are.

Scene to pay attention to: The prom scene where Laney appears transformed, yet realizes she was always valued for herself.

Discuss with your kid: How do you think our perception of others changes when we look beyond the surface?

Bring it On (2000)

A fun take on competition and teamwork, Bring it On emphasizes integrity, friendship, and respect for others. Oh, and it reinforces why cheating is bad. 🤷

Scene to pay attention to: The Toros realizing their routine was stolen and deciding to compete with a new routine. 

Discuss with your kid: Why is it important to compete fairly, and how did the Toros demonstrate this?

Legally Blonde (2001)

Elle Woods’ story is one of resilience, self-confidence, and challenging stereotypes. It proves that you can achieve your goals regardless of how others perceive you

Scene to pay attention to: When Elle wins the court case, proving her intelligence and capability.

Discuss with your kid: What does Elle's success in the courtroom teach us about stereotypes and self-belief?