Best high school comedy movies that will make you laugh
High school comedies have been a cinematic staple for decades. These movies capture the awkwardness, humor, and heart of adolescence.



From navigating cliques and first crushes to dealing with overbearing parents and the looming pressure of the future, high school comedies resonate with audiences of all ages. They offer a nostalgic look back for some, a source of comfort and relatability for others, and, of course, plenty of laughs for everyone. These movies, often filled with witty dialogue and exaggerated scenarios, provide a perfect escape into the chaotic world of teenage life.
These films are more than just silly gags and teenage drama; they often serve as time capsules, reflecting the cultural trends, fashion, and music of their respective eras. Whether it's the iconic plaid skirts of Clueless or the quirky dance moves of Napoleon Dynamite, these details contribute to the films' charm and memorability. The late 90s and early 2000s were particularly fertile ground for this genre, giving us classics like 10 Things I Hate About You and Bring It On, movies that continue to be quoted and rewatched today.
What sets these films apart is their ability to balance humor with genuine emotion. They explore themes of identity, acceptance, and the search for belonging, reminding us that even in the midst of teenage angst, there's always room for laughter and connection. The success of many of these films lies in their talented casts, many of whom went on to become major stars. These films are not just about the laughs; they're about the shared human experience of growing up, making mistakes, and finding your place in the world.
14. Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy (2004)
'Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy' is a hilarious satire of 1970s television news. Will Ferrell stars as Ron Burgundy, a chauvinistic and clueless anchorman who is threatened by the arrival of Veronica Corningstone (Christina Applegate), a talented and ambitious female reporter. The film is full of absurd jokes, memorable characters, and quotable lines. While not strictly set in a high school, its juvenile humor and over-the-top antics make it a favorite among comedy fans. With supporting roles from Paul Rudd, Steve Carell and David Koechner, this movie delivers non-stop laughs from beginning to end. Did you know that the original script for 'Anchorman' was much darker and more satirical, but it was toned down to appeal to a wider audience?

13. Dazed and Confused (1993)
Richard Linklater's 'Dazed and Confused' is a nostalgic and laid-back comedy that captures the spirit of the last day of high school in 1976. With its ensemble cast, classic rock soundtrack, and authentic portrayal of teenage life, the film has become a cult classic. The plot follows various groups of students as they cruise around town, party, and try to avoid getting into trouble. Ben Affleck, Matthew McConaughey, and Milla Jovovich are among the cast members who went on to become major stars. Fun Fact: The film was shot in Austin, Texas, and many of the extras were local high school students.

12. Pitch Perfect (2012)
Pitch Perfect follows Beca Mitchell (Anna Kendrick), an incoming college freshman who reluctantly joins an all-female a cappella group, the Barden Bellas. The Bellas, known for their traditional and often outdated performances, are challenged to reinvent themselves and compete against rival groups in the national a cappella championship. The film blends humor, catchy musical numbers, and a heartwarming story about finding your voice and embracing individuality. The riff-off scenes, where groups compete by singing songs from different genres, are a highlight of the movie. 'Pitch Perfect' was a box office success and launched a successful franchise, including sequels and spin-offs.

11. American Pie (1999)
'American Pie' is a raunchy and over-the-top comedy about a group of high school seniors who make a pact to lose their virginity before graduation. While the film is known for its crude humor and outrageous situations, it also captures the anxieties and insecurities of teenage life. The cast includes Jason Biggs, Alyson Hannigan, Chris Klein, Natasha Lyonne and Sean William Scott. The scene involving Jim and an apple pie has become an infamous moment in comedy history. The success of 'American Pie' spawned several sequels and spin-offs, but none have quite matched the impact of the original.

10. Bring It On (2000)
'Bring It On' is a high-energy comedy about competitive cheerleading. Kirsten Dunst stars as Torrance Shipman, the newly appointed captain of the Rancho Carne Toros cheerleading squad, who discovers that their routines were stolen from another team. The film is full of catchy cheers, acrobatic stunts, and a healthy dose of rivalry, making it a fun and entertaining watch. The success of 'Bring It On' spawned several sequels, but none have quite captured the charm and energy of the original. Fun Fact: Many of the cheerleaders in the film were actual competitive cheerleaders, adding to the authenticity of the performances.

9. She's the Man (2006)
'She's the Man' is a lighthearted and entertaining comedy inspired by Shakespeare's 'Twelfth Night.' Amanda Bynes stars as Viola Hastings, a teenage girl who disguises herself as her twin brother to play on the boys' soccer team after her own team is cut. The film is full of slapstick humor, mistaken identities, and romantic entanglements, making it a fun and enjoyable watch. Channing Tatum's performance as Duke Orsino helped launch his career. While not a critical darling, 'She's the Man' has garnered a cult following for its goofy charm and Bynes's comedic talent.

8. Napoleon Dynamite (2004)
'Napoleon Dynamite' is a quirky and endearing comedy about a socially awkward teenager named Napoleon (Jon Heder) who navigates the challenges of high school life in rural Idaho. With its deadpan humor, eccentric characters, and offbeat storyline, the film is a truly unique and unforgettable cinematic experience. From Napoleon's dance routine to his unwavering support for his friend Pedro's campaign for class president, every scene is filled with laugh-out-loud moments. Did you know that the film was shot on a shoestring budget of just $400,000 and became a massive box office hit?

7. The Breakfast Club (1985)
Another gem by John Hughes, 'The Breakfast Club' is a coming-of-age drama that explores the lives of five high school students from different social groups who are forced to spend a Saturday in detention together. As they share their stories and confront their stereotypes, they discover that they have more in common than they thought. The film is a powerful and moving exploration of identity, acceptance, and the challenges of adolescence. The cast which includes Emilio Estevez, Judd Nelson, Molly Ringwald, Anthony Michael Hall and Ally Sheedy became known as the 'Brat Pack'. The ending scene, with Judd Nelson raising his fist in the air, is one of the most iconic images in teen movie history.

6. 10 Things I Hate About You (1999)
'10 Things I Hate About You' is a charming and witty adaptation of Shakespeare's 'The Taming of the Shrew,' set in a Seattle high school. Heath Ledger delivers a charismatic performance as Patrick Verona, the bad boy hired to woo Kat Stratford (Julia Stiles), a fiercely independent and cynical teenager. The film is full of clever dialogue, memorable characters, and a killer soundtrack. The scene where Patrick sings 'Can't Take My Eyes Off You' to Kat on the football field is an iconic rom-com moment. Fun Fact: The poem that Kat reads at the end of the movie was written by Julia Stiles herself!

5. Clueless (1995)
Amy Heckerling's 'Clueless' is a clever and stylish adaptation of Jane Austen's 'Emma,' set in a Beverly Hills high school. Alicia Silverstone is iconic as Cher Horowitz, a well-meaning but somewhat naive popular girl who takes on the project of giving a new girl a makeover. The film is a masterclass in satire, poking fun at the excesses of the wealthy while also celebrating the importance of friendship and self-discovery. With its quotable lines, trendy fashion, and catchy soundtrack, 'Clueless' is a cultural touchstone of the 90s that continues to resonate with audiences today. Did you know that several of the fashion trends seen in the film, like the knee-high socks and plaid skirts, experienced a resurgence in popularity after the movie's release?

4. Easy A (2010)
'Easy A' is a witty and clever take on Nathaniel Hawthorne's 'The Scarlet Letter,' set in a modern high school. Emma Stone shines as Olive Penderghast, a seemingly ordinary student who pretends to be promiscuous to boost her social status. Olive uses the rumors to her advantage, adorning her clothes with the letter 'A' and offering her services to other social outcasts who need a reputation boost. The film is filled with sharp dialogue, memorable characters, and a refreshing message about embracing individuality and challenging social norms. Stanley Tucci and Patricia Clarkson are hilarious as Olive's supportive and unconventional parents.

3. Superbad (2007)
'Superbad,' written by Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg, is a coming-of-age comedy that perfectly encapsulates the awkwardness and anxieties of impending adulthood. Jonah Hill and Michael Cera deliver unforgettable performances as Seth and Evan, two high school seniors desperately trying to score alcohol for a party in hopes of losing their virginity before graduation. The movie's humor is raunchy and irreverent, but beneath the surface lies a genuine story about friendship and growing up. McLovin, played by Christopher Mintz-Plasse, steals every scene he's in. The film is a modern classic that captures the essence of teenage angst with hilarious authenticity.

2. Mean Girls (2004)
Tina Fey's razor-sharp script and the stellar cast make 'Mean Girls' an unforgettable high school comedy. Lindsay Lohan stars as Cady Heron, a naive teenager who gets a crash course in the cutthroat world of high school cliques when she infiltrates 'The Plastics,' led by the infamous Regina George (Rachel McAdams). The movie perfectly captures the anxieties and absurdities of teenage life, with quotable lines and hilarious situations that have become deeply ingrained in pop culture. 'The limit does not exist!' Beyond the laughs, 'Mean Girls' offers insightful commentary on bullying, social dynamics, and the importance of staying true to yourself. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its clever writing and relatable characters.

1. Ferris Bueller's Day Off (1986)
John Hughes's masterpiece is the ultimate high school wish-fulfillment fantasy. Ferris Bueller, played with infectious charm by Matthew Broderick, decides to skip school for a day of adventures in Chicago. This isn't just a comedy; it's a celebration of youth, freedom, and seizing the moment. From outsmarting Principal Rooney to belting out 'Twist and Shout' on a parade float, every scene is iconic. The film's impact on pop culture is undeniable, and it remains a timeless classic that resonates with audiences of all ages. Hughes's sharp writing and the film's optimistic spirit make it a must-watch for anyone who needs a reminder to take a day off and enjoy life.
