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The ultimate guide to teen high school movies and series

Navigating the tumultuous years of high school is never easy, but these movies and series capture the essence of adolescence. From the awkward first crushes to the quest for identity, get ready to relive those unforgettable moments.

Mean Girls
Clueless
10 Things I Hate About You

High school movies and TV shows have always held a special place in our hearts, offering a mix of nostalgia, humor, and drama that resonates with audiences of all ages. From the iconic John Hughes films of the '80s to the more recent teen dramas, these stories capture the essence of adolescence, exploring themes of identity, friendship, love, and rebellion.

There's something incredibly appealing about watching characters navigate the awkwardness of first crushes, the pressures of social cliques, and the quest for self-discovery. Whether it's the detention-filled halls of The Breakfast Club or the cutthroat world of cheerleading in Dare Me, these stories reflect the universal experiences of growing up.

Many of these movies and shows serve as cultural touchstones, shaping our understanding of what it means to be a teenager. They provide a lens through which we can examine our own experiences, reflect on the challenges we faced, and celebrate the triumphs we achieved. Whether you're a current high school student or a seasoned adult, these movies and series are sure to bring back memories, spark conversations, and maybe even offer a few life lessons along the way.

13. The Vampire Diaries (2009)

The Vampire Diaries is a supernatural teen drama that follows the lives of Elena Gilbert (Nina Dobrev), a high school student torn between two vampire brothers, Stefan (Paul Wesley) and Damon Salvatore (Ian Somerhalder). Set in the fictional town of Mystic Falls, Virginia, the series is filled with romance, danger, and supernatural intrigue. With its attractive cast, compelling storylines, and blend of genres, The Vampire Diaries became a massive hit with teenage audiences. The show is based on a book series of the same name by L.J. Smith. Fun fact: the series was originally conceived as a trilogy, but the success of the first three books led to the publication of several more installments.

The Vampire Diaries

12. Dare Me (2019)

Dare Me is a dark and gritty teen drama that explores the intense world of competitive cheerleading. Set in a small Midwestern town, the series follows the complex relationships between a group of cheerleaders and their new coach, who pushes them to their limits both physically and emotionally. The show is known for its suspenseful plotlines, its strong female characters, and its exploration of themes such as power, ambition, and loyalty. With its compelling storyline and edgy tone, Dare Me offers a unique and captivating take on the teen drama genre. The series is based on a novel of the same name by Megan Abbott, who also served as an executive producer on the show. Despite critical acclaim, Dare Me was canceled after just one season, leaving fans wanting more.

Dare Me

11. Friday Night Lights (2006)

Friday Night Lights is a critically acclaimed drama series that centers on the Dillon Panthers, a high school football team in a small Texas town where football is a way of life. The show explores the pressures and expectations placed on these young athletes, as well as the challenges faced by their families and community. With its realistic characters, compelling storylines, and heartfelt performances, Friday Night Lights is a powerful and moving portrayal of small-town America. The show is praised for its authentic depiction of football culture and its exploration of themes such as family, community, and the pursuit of dreams. While the show is fictional, it was inspired by a non-fiction book of the same name and a subsequent film, both of which chronicled the real-life story of a high school football team in Odessa, Texas.

Friday Night Lights

10. Euphoria (2019)

Euphoria is a raw and unflinching look at the lives of contemporary teenagers as they grapple with issues of addiction, trauma, identity, and relationships. Zendaya delivers a powerful performance as Rue Bennett, a recovering drug addict struggling to find her place in the world. The show is known for its stylish visuals, its provocative storylines, and its unflinching portrayal of the challenges faced by young people today. While Euphoria has been praised for its authenticity, it has also sparked controversy for its explicit content. One of the show's strengths is its use of music, with a soundtrack that perfectly captures the mood and emotions of each scene. Did you know that Drake serves as an executive producer on the series?

Euphoria

9. Outer Banks (2020)

Outer Banks is a teen drama series set in the Outer Banks of North Carolina, following a group of working-class teenagers known as the 'Pogues' as they search for a legendary treasure linked to the disappearance of one of their fathers. The show is filled with mystery, adventure, and romance, as the Pogues clash with the wealthy 'Kooks' and uncover secrets that threaten to tear their community apart. With its scenic locations, suspenseful plotlines, and attractive cast, Outer Banks is a guilty pleasure for fans of teen-oriented dramas. While the show is set in North Carolina, much of the first season was actually filmed in South Carolina due to logistical reasons.

Outer Banks

8. Never Have I Ever (2020)

Mindy Kaling's Never Have I Ever is a refreshing and hilarious coming-of-age series that follows Devi Vishwakumar (Maitreyi Ramakrishnan), an Indian-American teenager navigating the ups and downs of high school while grieving the loss of her father. The show is praised for its authentic representation of South Asian culture, its witty writing, and its relatable characters. With its blend of humor, heart, and cultural insights, Never Have I Ever is a must-watch for anyone who enjoys teen dramas with a fresh perspective. A unique aspect of the series is that it's narrated by tennis legend John McEnroe, adding a quirky and unexpected layer to the storytelling. The show has been lauded for breaking stereotypes and showcasing the complexities of the immigrant experience.

Never Have I Ever

7. To All the Boys I've Loved Before (2018)

To All the Boys I've Loved Before is a charming and heartwarming teen romance that launched a new wave of popularity for the genre. Lana Condor stars as Lara Jean Covey, a shy high school student whose secret love letters are mysteriously mailed to all her crushes. The film is a sweet and relatable story about first love, self-discovery, and the awkwardness of adolescence. With its diverse cast, feel-good vibes, and undeniable chemistry between Condor and Noah Centineo, To All the Boys I've Loved Before is a modern rom-com that appeals to audiences of all ages. Based on the novel by Jenny Han, the film spawned two successful sequels and cemented its place as a pop culture phenomenon. Interestingly, the film was shot in Vancouver, Canada, but is set in Portland, Oregon.

To All the Boys I've Loved Before

6. Easy A (2010)

Easy A is a clever and subversive teen comedy that cleverly subverts the stereotypes of high school. Emma Stone shines as Olive Penderghast, a witty and resourceful student who uses rumors about her promiscuity to her advantage, embracing the scarlet letter and challenging the judgmental attitudes of her classmates. The film is a smart and funny commentary on slut-shaming, reputation, and the power of owning your own narrative. With its sharp writing, memorable characters, and a star-making performance from Stone, Easy A is a modern classic that continues to resonate with audiences. The film's soundtrack is also a standout, featuring a mix of indie pop and classic tunes that perfectly complement the story's tone. A little trivia: Amanda Bynes was originally considered for the role of Marianne, but Emma Stone eventually landed the part and delivered a career-defining performance.

Easy A

5. 10 Things I Hate About You (1999)

A modern take on Shakespeare's The Taming of the Shrew, 10 Things I Hate About You is a witty and charming romantic comedy set in a Seattle high school. Heath Ledger delivers a breakout performance as Patrick Verona, the mysterious bad boy who is paid to woo the fiercely independent Kat Stratford (Julia Stiles). The film is filled with sharp dialogue, memorable characters, and a swoon-worthy romance that defies expectations. Beyond the love story, it also explores themes of feminism, individuality, and the importance of looking beyond first impressions. The scene where Patrick serenades Kat with "Can't Take My Eyes Off You" is an iconic moment in teen movie history. A fun fact: the film was shot at Stadium High School in Tacoma, Washington, which is known for its stunning architecture and has been featured in other films and TV shows.

10 Things I Hate About You

4. Clueless (1995)

Clueless is a delightful and stylish adaptation of Jane Austen's Emma, transported to the glitz and glamour of Beverly Hills. Alicia Silverstone shines as Cher Horowitz, a well-meaning but somewhat ditzy high school student who takes on the task of giving a 'makeover' to a new student, Tai (Brittany Murphy). The film is a witty and affectionate satire of teenage life, filled with memorable characters, fashion-forward outfits, and a killer soundtrack. Beyond the superficial trappings, Clueless also explores themes of friendship, self-discovery, and the importance of looking beyond appearances. Its quotable dialogue and timeless charm have made it a beloved classic for over two decades. Did you know that many of the now famous phrases from the movie, like "As if!" and "I'm Audi," made their way into mainstream language after the movie's release?

Clueless

3. Mean Girls (2004)

Tina Fey's sharp wit and clever writing elevate Mean Girls from a typical teen comedy to a hilarious and insightful commentary on high school social dynamics. Lindsay Lohan stars as Cady Heron, a naive teenager who navigates the treacherous world of cliques and popularity after being homeschooled in Africa. The film skewers the cattiness and insecurities of teenage girls with spot-on humor, thanks to memorable performances from Rachel McAdams, Amanda Seyfried, and Lacey Chabert as the iconic 'Plastics.' Beyond the quotable lines and laugh-out-loud moments, Mean Girls also offers a surprisingly poignant message about staying true to yourself and the importance of female solidarity. It's a modern classic that continues to resonate with audiences of all ages.

Mean Girls

2. Ferris Bueller's Day Off (1986)

Another gem from John Hughes, Ferris Bueller's Day Off is the ultimate celebration of youthful exuberance and the art of skipping school. Matthew Broderick delivers an unforgettable performance as the titular Ferris, a charismatic high school senior who orchestrates an epic day of hooky with his best friend Cameron (Alan Ruck) and girlfriend Sloane (Mia Sara). The film is a joyful romp through the streets of Chicago, filled with memorable set pieces, witty dialogue, and a infectious sense of fun. Beyond the laughs, it also explores themes of friendship, self-discovery, and the importance of seizing the moment. From the iconic parade scene to Cameron's emotional breakthrough, Ferris Bueller's Day Off is a timeless comedy that reminds us to embrace life's adventures.

Ferris Bueller's Day Off

1. The Breakfast Club (1985)

John Hughes's 1985 masterpiece is more than just a teen movie; it's a cultural touchstone. The film follows five high school students from different walks of life as they navigate a Saturday detention, breaking down stereotypes and forging unlikely connections. With its insightful dialogue and iconic performances from Emilio Estevez, Molly Ringwald, Judd Nelson, Ally Sheedy, and Anthony Michael Hall, The Breakfast Club captures the angst and complexity of adolescence with humor and heart. The soundtrack, particularly Simple Minds' "Don't You (Forget About Me)," became an anthem for a generation. It's a film that stays with you, prompting reflection on identity, acceptance, and the universal desire to be understood. A film that defined a generation.

The Breakfast Club

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