We’ve put together a list of the greatest teen movies ever made for all you young-at-heart folks out there! It doesn’t matter if you’re currently a teenager or if those years are far behind you, these movies are guaranteed to bring joy and entertainment to anyone.
From heartwarming coming-of-age stories to hilarious high school comedies, these films have become timeless classics. So, grab some popcorn and get ready to relive those nostalgic moments or discover new favorites. Here are the best teen movies of all time:
1. “The Breakfast Club” (1985): This iconic film follows a group of high school students from different social cliques who come together during detention. It explores themes of identity, friendship, and the struggles of adolescence.
2. “Clueless” (1995): A modern-day adaptation of Jane Austen’s “Emma,” this comedy takes us into the glamorous world of Beverly Hills teenagers. With its witty dialogue and unforgettable fashion, it remains a beloved cult classic.
3. “Mean Girls” (2004): This biting satire delves into the cutthroat world of high school cliques. Lindsay Lohan stars as Cady Heron, a new student who must navigate the treacherous dynamics of the popular girls, known as “The Plastics.”
4. “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” (1986): Ferris Bueller, the ultimate high school slacker, embarks on an epic adventure, skipping school and outsmarting his principal. This feel-good comedy captures the rebellious spirit of adolescence.
5. “The Perks of Being a Wallflower” (2012): Based on the best-selling novel, this coming-of-age drama follows the story of Charlie, a shy and introverted teenager. Through his friendship with two seniors, he begins to navigate the complexities of love, loss, and self-discovery.
6. “10 Things I Hate About You” (1999): This modern twist on Shakespeare’s “The Taming of the Shrew” stars Heath Ledger and Julia Stiles. With its witty dialogue and heartfelt romance, it has become a beloved staple of the genre.
7. “Grease” (1978): Set in the 1950s, this iconic musical tells the love story of Danny and Sandy, two high school students from different worlds. Packed with catchy songs and electrifying dance numbers, it’s a timeless classic.
8. “Easy A” (2010): Emma Stone shines in this smart and hilarious comedy about a high school student who becomes the subject of rumors and gossip. Inspired by “The Scarlet Letter,” it explores themes of reputation and self-acceptance.
9. “Superbad” (2007): This raunchy comedy follows a group of best friends as they navigate their way through the challenges of high school, parties, and love interests. With its relatable characters and laugh-out-loud moments, it has become a cult favorite.
10. “The Fault in Our Stars” (2014): Based on the best-selling novel, this heart-wrenching romance tells the story of two teenagers who meet and fall in love at a cancer support group. It’s a beautiful and emotional journey that will leave you reaching for the tissues.
So, whether you’re looking for a trip down memory lane or a chance to discover new favorites, these teen movies are sure to captivate and entertain. Grab your friends, family, or even enjoy them alone – because age is just a number when it comes to enjoying these cinematic gems.
50 Teen Movies That Will Make You Laugh, Cry, and Remember Your High School Days
Teen movies have always been a favorite genre for many, and it’s not hard to see why. They tackle relatable issues like young love, loss, sex, and the power of friendships. Over the years, the list of great teen movies has only grown longer, with classics like The Breakfast Club and Ferris Bueller’s Day Off still holding a special place in our hearts. But there are also new additions that have captured our attention, like Olivia Wilde’s hilarious Booksmart and the captivating performances of Ayo Ederibi and Rachel Sennott in Bottoms.
With so many options to choose from, we’ve compiled a list of our 50 favorite teen movies. From the timeless romance of Grease and 10 Things I Hate About You to the comedic charm of 17 Again and Do Revenge, these movies are perfect for a weekend movie night. So grab some popcorn and get ready to relive those high school days!
Booksmart
Starring Beanie Feldstein and Kaitlyn Dever, this hilarious movie directed by Olivia Wilde follows two academic geniuses who realize they’ve missed out on the true high school experience. Determined to make the most of their remaining time, they embark on a wild adventure in one unforgettable night.
10 Things I Hate About You
In this classic teen movie, an outgoing younger sister named Bianca is forbidden from going to prom unless her older sister Kat attends. With the help of her crush, Bianca devises a plan to convince Kat to go, leading to unexpected romance and plenty of laughs.
The Breakfast Club
1985’s The Breakfast Club brings together a group of high schoolers from different cliques who find themselves stuck in Saturday detention. Forced to spend the day together, they bond, share their struggles, and discover common ground in this iconic coming-of-age film.
The Edge of Seventeen
Starring Hailee Steinfeld, this movie follows a high school junior who feels like her world is falling apart when her best friend starts dating her older brother. Navigating the challenges of friendship, family, and love, she learns valuable lessons about growing up.
To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before
Noah Centineo and Lana Condor star in this charming movie about a high schooler whose secret love letters to her crushes are accidentally sent out. As she navigates the aftermath, unexpected romance blossoms, and she discovers the power of vulnerability.
The Half of It
In this heartfelt film, a studious girl named Ellie is dared to write a love letter to a jock. But as they start to connect, they realize they have more in common than they ever imagined, challenging their preconceived notions about love and friendship.
The Hate U Give
Starring Amandla Stenberg, this powerful movie follows a high schooler who straddles two worlds: her predominantly black neighborhood and the wealthy white prep school she attends. When her best friend is killed by a police officer, her life is forever changed, and she must find her voice in the fight against injustice.
Dope
Part drama, part romance, Dope tells the story of three high school seniors who find themselves entangled with a drug dealer after a chance encounter. Their journey to escape trouble takes unexpected twists and turns, testing their loyalty and resilience.
Pretty in Pink
Molly Ringwald shines in this classic teen movie as Andie, a girl torn between dating a popular bad boy or a sweet nerd. As she navigates love, friendship, and self-discovery, she learns valuable lessons about staying true to herself.
Ferris Bueller’s Day Off
In this iconic ’80s film, high school senior Ferris Bueller embarks on an epic day off, determined to have one last adventure before graduation. Filled with hilarious antics and unforgettable moments, this movie captures the essence of teenage rebellion and the desire to live life to the fullest.
Grease
It doesn’t get more classic than Grease, the beloved movie musical that follows the love story between Danny Zuko and Sandy. Set in the 1950s, this film explores themes of identity, friendship, and the transformative power of love through catchy songs and memorable dance numbers.
Back to the Future
What would you do if you could time-travel back to when your parents were teenagers? Marty McFly faces this dilemma in Back to the Future, a thrilling adventure that explores the complexities of altering the past and shaping the future.
Heathers
In this dark comedy, Veronica learns the dangers of confronting the popular girls in school and discovers that some people are simply not to be trusted. With its biting humor and satirical take on high school cliques, Heathers remains a cult favorite.
Dazed and Confused
Set in the ’70s, Dazed and Confused follows a group of high school seniors on their last day of school. With an ensemble cast that includes Matthew McConaughey and Ben Affleck, this movie captures the spirit of youth, rebellion, and the bittersweet transition into adulthood.
Bring It On
If you’re in the mood for a cheerleading movie, Bring It On is the perfect choice. This film follows the Toro cheerleading squad as they face off against a rival team after their routine is stolen. With energetic dance sequences and a dose of girl power, it’s a fun and empowering watch.
Lady Bird
Directed by Greta Gerwig, Lady Bird tells the story of a strong-willed high schooler named Christine “Lady Bird” McPherson. Navigating the ups and downs of adolescence, she grapples with relationships, dreams, and her complicated bond with her mother.
High School Musical
Basketball star Troy Bolton and straight-A student Gabriella Montez find their worlds turned upside down when they discover a shared love for singing. High School Musical is a feel-good movie filled with catchy tunes, infectious energy, and the power of following your dreams.
Clueless
In this ’90s classic, Cher, a popular and superficial high schooler, takes on the challenge of matchmaking her teachers, befriends an outcast, and explores the world of dating for the first time. With its witty dialogue and iconic fashion, Clueless remains a beloved teen movie.
Mean Girls
Mean Girls follows a recent transfer student as she befriends a group of misfits and plots to take down the popular girls, known as the Plastics. This comedy explores the complexities of high school cliques, social dynamics, and the power of female friendships.
The Princess Diaries
Imagine finding out you’re royalty to a country you’ve never even heard of before. That’s exactly what happens to Mia, a high schooler who must navigate the challenges of becoming a princess while also dealing with the usual teenage struggles.
Easy A
Emma Stone shines in this witty and clever movie about a high schooler named Olive who finds herself caught in a web of lies after pretending to lose her virginity. As her reputation spirals out of control, she learns important lessons about honesty and self-acceptance.
Love, Simon
Love, Simon tells the heartfelt story of Simon, a high schooler who struggles with coming out as gay. When he begins an anonymous online correspondence with another student, their connection deepens, and Simon must navigate the challenges of self-acceptance and finding love.
Superbad
In this hilarious comedy, two best friends embark on a mission to lose their virginities before graduation. With their plans going hilariously awry, Superbad explores the awkwardness and insecurities of teenage boys on the cusp of adulthood.
Fast Times at Ridgemont High
Fast Times at Ridgemont High takes us back to the ’80s, where we meet a group of high schoolers navigating the ups and downs of teenage life. From romantic entanglements to the pressures of growing up, this movie captures the essence of the era.
American Pie
American Pie delves into the hormonal chaos of teenage life, following a group of friends as they navigate the challenges of love, friendship, and the pursuit of sexual experiences. Full of raunchy humor and relatable moments, it’s a coming-of-age comedy that has become a staple in the genre.
Prom Dates
Prom Dates follows two best friends who experience two breakups just before prom. Determined to find new dates, they embark on a mission to secure partners for the big night, leading to unexpected twists and turns.
Election
Reese Witherspoon shines in Election as an overachieving high school student running for class president. Her teacher, played by Matthew Broderick, becomes determined to derail her campaign, leading to a battle of wits and unexpected consequences.
Prom Pact
In this recent addition to the teen movie genre, two best friends make a pact to make the most of their last weeks of high school while promising to be each other’s prom dates. However, their plans become more complicated than they anticipated, testing their friendship and resilience.
She’s the Man
She’s the Man follows soccer star Viola as she disguises herself as her twin brother to attend his new boarding school. Filled with hilarious moments and unexpected romance, this movie is a fun and entertaining watch.
Bottoms
Starring Ayo Edebiri and Rachel Sennott, Bottoms tells the story of two unpopular girls who start a fight club in hopes of getting the attention of their cheerleader crushes. With its raunchy humor and relatable themes, this comedy is a must-watch.
Napoleon Dynamite
Napoleon Dynamite follows the quirky and awkward Napoleon as he befriends a new student named Pedro and together they launch a campaign for class president. With its unique humor and memorable characters, this cult classic is a true gem.
Do Revenge
In the 2022 teen movie Do Revenge, Drea and Eleanor form an unlikely duo as they seek sweet vindication against each other’s enemies. Filled with twists and turns, this movie explores the power of friendship and the complexities of revenge.
The Fallout
Changing gears to a more serious tone, The Fallout explores the aftermath of a school shooting and its impact on two high schoolers. As they grapple with grief, love, and the search for meaning, they discover the strength to rebuild their lives.
First Match
First Match tells the story of a young girl who joins her school’s all-boys wrestling team in hopes of reconnecting with her estranged father. Through the challenges of the sport, she learns valuable lessons about resilience, identity, and family.
A Cinderella Story
In this modern retelling of the classic fairy tale, Sam, played by Hilary Duff, falls for the most popular guy in school after connecting over text and meeting at a masquerade party. A Cinderella Story is a sweet and romantic movie that captures the magic of young love.
The Fault in Our Stars
Based on the best-selling novel, The Fault in Our Stars follows two cancer patients, Hazel and Gus, as they navigate love, loss, and the complexities of living with a terminal illness. This heartwarming and heartbreaking movie reminds us of the power of love and the beauty of life.
The Spectacular Now
Starring Shailene Woodley and Miles Teller, The Spectacular Now explores the romance between a popular guy and a shy, introverted girl. As they navigate their own personal struggles, they find solace and connection in each other, teaching us valuable lessons about vulnerability and acceptance.
The Kissing Booth
The Kissing Booth follows Elle, an innocent high schooler who falls for one of the hottest guys in school, who also happens to be her best friend’s brother. With its blend of romance and comedy, this movie is a delightful watch that will leave you with a smile on your face.
The DUFF
Bianca, played by Mae Whitman, discovers that she is considered the “Designated Ugly Fat Friend” of her friend group. Determined to change her image, she enlists the help of a charming jock named Wesley, leading to unexpected self-discovery and romance.
John Tucker Must Die
When three girls discover they are all dating the same guy, they team up to seek revenge on John Tucker. This hilarious and empowering movie explores themes of friendship, betrayal, and the power of standing up for oneself.
Aquamarine
In this teen fantasy movie, two best friends befriend a mermaid named Aquamarine, who is on a mission to prove that true love exists. Filled with magical moments and heartfelt lessons, this movie is a delightful watch for all ages.
School of Rock
Failed musician Dewey Finn, played by Jack Black, poses as a substitute teacher and forms a rock band with his students. School of Rock is a feel-good movie that celebrates the power of music and the importance of following your passion.
The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants
Based on the best-selling book series, The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants follows four best friends as they spend their first summer apart. Through a pair of magical pants that fits all of them perfectly, they navigate love, friendship, and the challenges of growing up.
What a Girl Wants
Starring Amanda Bynes, What a Girl Wants tells the story of a fearless teen who travels to London to find her birth father. Along the way, she discovers her true identity and learns valuable lessons about family, love, and self-discovery.
Sixteen Candles
In this angsty teen movie, Samantha’s family completely forgets her milestone birthday, leaving her feeling invisible and misunderstood. Sixteen Candles explores the chaos of teenagehood and the search for love and acceptance.
Freaky Friday
In a hilarious twist of fate, a mother and daughter switch bodies and must navigate each other’s lives for a day. Freaky Friday is a heartwarming and comedic movie that reminds us of the importance of empathy and understanding.
17 Again
In 17 Again, Mike O’Donnell is thrust back in time and transformed into his 17-year-old self. As he navigates high school once again, he must also navigate his relationship with his children, who are now his classmates. This comedy explores the complexities of adulthood and the desire to relive our youth.
Confessions of a Teenage Drama Queen
Confessions of a Teenage Drama Queen follows aspiring actress Lola as she embarks on an adventure in New York City to meet her celebrity crush. Filled with glamour, friendship, and dreams, this movie captures the excitement and drama of teenage life.
Wild Child
Wild Child tells the story of a spoiled Beverly Hills teen who is sent to a boarding school in England as a wakeup call. Through new friendships and unexpected challenges, she learns valuable lessons about humility, friendship, and self-discovery.
New York Minute
Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen star in New York Minute, a movie about two Long Island teens who embark on a series of misadventures during a day off school in New York City. Filled with comedy and sisterly love, this movie is a fun and lighthearted watch.
These 50 teen movies are sure to make you laugh, cry, and reminisce about your own high school days. Whether you’re in the mood for romance, comedy, or heartfelt drama, there’s something for everyone on this list. So grab some popcorn, gather your friends, and enjoy a movie night filled with nostalgia and teenage dreams.
