- In the iconic 80s coming-of-age film, Fast Times at Ridgemont High, teenage life is under the microscope. Amidst Southern California's sun-soaked malls and high schools, we follow a group of students as they navigate adolescent adventures. Our key characters include Stacy Hamilton (Jennifer Jason Leigh), a young girl grappling with her burgeoning sexuality, her best friend Linda Barrett (Phoebe Cates), Mark Ratner (Brian Backer) the shy novice in love, and Jeff Spicoli (Sean Penn), the perennial surfer dude. Directed by Amy Heckerling, this movie weaves together tales of love, loss, and teen angst against a backdrop of carefree adolescence and rock 'n' roll.
- Released: 1982
- Directed by: Amy Heckerling
- In the classic comedy, Ferris Bueller's Day Off, Ferris Bueller (Matthew Broderick) is a high school senior who decides to play hooky for a day. He cleverly manipulates his parents, outwits his sister Jeanie (Jennifer Grey), and convinces his best friend Cameron (Alan Ruck) to join him. They embark on an unforgettable adventure in Chicago, involving a vintage Ferrari, the Sears Tower, and a local parade. Meanwhile, their suspicious principal Rooney (Jeffrey Jones) is determined to catch Ferris in the act. This film explores themes of friendship and rebellion against societal norms without resorting to heavy drama or violence.
- Released: 1986
- Directed by: John Hughes
- In a funny, moving and distinctly mind-bending journey through suburban America, one extraordinary but disenchanted teenager is about to take Time's Arrow for a ride. After surviving a freak accident, Donnie (Jake Gyllenhaal) begins to explore what it means to be alive, and in short order to be in love, he uncovers secrets of the universe that give him a tempting power to alter time and destiny.
- Released: 2001
- Directed by: Richard Kelly
- A riotous and raunchy exploration of the most eagerly anticipated -- and most humiliating -- rite of adulthood, known as losing one's virginity. In this hilarious lesson in life, love and libido, a group of friends, fed up with their well-deserved reputations as sexual no-hitters, decide to take action.
- Released: 1999
- Directed by: Paul Weitz
- Teenage brothers Michael (Jason Patric) and Sam (Corey Haim) move with their mother (Dianne Wiest) to a small town in northern California. While the younger Sam meets a pair of kindred spirits in geeky comic-book nerds Edward (Corey Feldman) and Alan (Jamison Newlander), the angst-ridden Michael soon falls for Star (Jami Gertz) -- who turns out to be in thrall to David (Kiefer Sutherland), leader of a local gang of vampires. Sam and his new friends must save Michael and Star from the undead.
- Released: 1987
- Directed by: Joel Schumacher
- High school seniors Seth and Evan have high hopes for a graduation party. The co-dependent teens plan to score booze and babes so they can become part of the in-crowd, but separation anxiety and two bored police officers complicate the pair's self-proclaimed mission.
- Released: 2007
- Directed by: Greg Mottola
- Five high school students from different walks of life endure a Saturday detention under a power-hungry principal (Paul Gleason). The disparate group includes rebel John (Judd Nelson), princess Claire (Molly Ringwald), outcast Allison (Ally Sheedy), brainy Brian (Anthony Michael Hall) and Andrew (Emilio Estevez), the jock. Each has a chance to tell his or her story, making the others see them a little differently -- and when the day ends, they question whether school will ever be the same.
- Released: 1985
- Directed by: John Hughes
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- 2Gary Cole2,034 Votes
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- In Wes Craven's classic slasher film, several Midwestern teenagers fall prey to Freddy Krueger (Robert Englund), a disfigured midnight mangler who preys on the teenagers in their dreams -- which, in turn, kills them in reality. After investigating the phenomenon, Nancy (Heather Langenkamp) begins to suspect that a dark secret kept by her and her friends' parents may be the key to unraveling the mystery, but can Nancy and her boyfriend Glen (Johnny Depp) solve the puzzle before it's too late?
- Released: 1984
- Directed by: Wes Craven
- Dazed and Confused is a coming-of-age comedy film that paints an authentic picture of American teenage life in the 70s. Set in Austin, Texas, on the last day of high school in 1976, this Richard Linklater-directed film showcases a host of characters. Randall Pink Floyd (Jason London) is a star quarterback facing the dilemma of signing a no-drug pledge, while freshman Mitch Kramer (Wiley Wiggins) endures hazing rituals. The movie, punctuated by an iconic rock soundtrack, captures the carefree spirit and uncertainty that mark the threshold of adulthood. It's a nostalgic romp through teen angst, party culture, and youthful rebellion - all rolled into one unforgettable summer night.
- Released: 1993
- Directed by: Richard Linklater
- When two brothers find out they might lose their house they are desperate to find a way to keep their home. They find a treasure map and bring some friends along to find it. They are all out looking for the "X" and trying to get away from a group of bad guys who also want the treasure.
- Released: 1985
- Directed by: Richard Donner
- High-school student Bella Swan, always a bit of a misfit, doesn't expect life to change much when she moves from sunny Arizona to rainy Washington state. Then she meets Edward Cullen, a handsome but mysterious teen whose eyes seem to peer directly into her soul. Edward is a vampire whose family does not drink blood, and Bella, far from being frightened, enters into a dangerous romance with her immortal soulmate.
- Released: 2008
- Directed by: Catherine Hardwicke
- In the heart of Beverly Hills, high schooler Cher Horowitz (Alicia Silverstone) reigns as a self-proclaimed fashionista and matchmaker. Clueless, a comedy-drama flick directed by Amy Heckerling, sees Cher navigating the tricky waters of adolescence while attempting to handle love interests and maintain her social status. Alongside Cher is her best friend Dionne Davenport (Stacey Dash), who aids in her various escapades. The film, an amusing modern adaptation of Jane Austen's Emma, cleverly taps into teenage angst and the complexities of young love. Despite its light-hearted tone, it subtly addresses pertinent social issues, making it a timeless classic.
- Released: 1995
- Directed by: Amy Heckerling
- Baby (Jennifer Grey) is one listless summer away from the Peace Corps. Hoping to enjoy her youth while it lasts, she's disappointed when her summer plans deposit her at a sleepy resort in the Catskills with her parents. Her luck turns around, however, when the resort's dance instructor, Johnny (Patrick Swayze), enlists Baby as his new partner, and the two fall in love. Baby's father forbids her from seeing Johnny, but she's determined to help him perform the last big dance of the summer.
- Released: 1987
- Directed by: Emile Ardolino
- Experience the friendships, romances and adventures of a group of high school kids in the 1950s. Welcome to the singing and dancing world of "Grease," the most successful movie musical of all time. A wholesome exchange student (Olivia Newton-John) and a leather-clad Danny (John Travolta) have a summer romance, but will it cross clique lines?
- Released: 1978
- Directed by: Randal Kleiser
- Daniel (Ralph Macchio) moves to Southern California with his mother, Lucille (Randee Heller), but quickly finds himself the target of a group of bullies who study karate at the Cobra Kai dojo. Fortunately, Daniel befriends Mr. Miyagi (Noriyuki "Pat" Morita), an unassuming repairman who just happens to be a martial arts master himself. Miyagi takes Daniel under his wing, training him in a more compassionate form of karate and preparing him to compete against the brutal Cobra Kai.
- Released: 1984
- Directed by: John G. Avildsen
- Juno is a heartwarming drama-comedy that revolves around the life of Juno MacGuff (Elliot Page), a witty and independent 16-year-old who becomes pregnant by her friend, Paulie Bleeker (Michael Cera). Instead of opting for an abortion, she decides to give the baby up for adoption. The prospective parents are Mark and Vanessa Loring (Jason Bateman and Jennifer Garner), a seemingly perfect couple. As the story unfolds, Juno navigates through pregnancy while dealing with school, relationships, and the impending reality of motherhood. The film won an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay and was nominated for three others including Best Picture.
- Released: 2007
- Directed by: Jason Reitman
- In the iconic horror film Halloween, directed by John Carpenter, the tranquil town of Haddonfield, Illinois is thrown into a state of terror. The menace arrives in the form of Michael Myers (Nick Castle), an escaped mental patient with a chilling past. The film's protagonist, Laurie Strode (Jamie Lee Curtis), finds herself in Myers's crosshairs on Halloween night. As she and her friends become targets, Dr. Sam Loomis (Donald Pleasence), Myers's psychiatrist, races against time to stop his murderous rampage. Unpredictable yet relentless, Halloween weaves a tale of suspense that won't soon be forgotten.
- Released: 1978
- Directed by: John Carpenter
- A new English teacher, John Keating (Robin Williams), is introduced to an all-boys preparatory school that is known for its ancient traditions and high standards. He uses unorthodox methods to reach out to his students, who face enormous pressures from their parents and the school. With Keating's help, students Neil Perry (Robert Sean Leonard), Todd Anderson (Ethan Hawke) and others learn to break out of their shells, pursue their dreams and seize the day.
- Released: 1989
- Directed by: Peter Weir
- In a charming, critically acclaimed tale of first love, Lloyd (John Cusack), an eternal optimist, seeks to capture the heart of Diane (Ione Skye), an unattainable high-school beauty and straight-A student. It surprises just about everyone when she returns the sentiment. But Diane's overly possessive, divorced father (John Mahoney) doesn't approve and it will take more than the power of love to conquer all.
- Released: 1989
- Directed by: Cameron Crowe
- Napoleon Dynamite (Jon Heder) exists in the quiet town of Preston, Idaho, a place where life hums at a slower pace. This quirky comedy, directed by Jared Hess, unravels the curious exploits of this oddball high schooler with an afro and moon boots. His life becomes entangled with his new friend Pedro (Efren Ramirez), who decides to run for class president against the popular girl. Napoleon's brother Kip (Aaron Ruell) is also part of the mix, as he seeks love online. The movie won Best Feature at the MTV Movie Awards in 2005. It's a tale about friendship, small-town high school politics, and finding one's unique groove in life.
- Released: 2004
- Directed by: Jared Hess
- After learning that a stranger has been accidentally killed near their rural homes, four Oregon boys decide to go see the body. On the way, Gordie Lachance (Wil Wheaton), Vern Tessio (Jerry O'Connell), Chris Chambers (River Phoenix) and Teddy Duchamp (Corey Feldman) encounter a mean junk man and a marsh full of leeches, as they also learn more about one another and their very different home lives. Just a lark at first, the boys' adventure evolves into a defining event in their lives.
- Released: 1986
- Directed by: Rob Reiner
- In the peculiar and captivating film Edward Scissorhands, Edward (Johnny Depp), a gentle creation with scissors for hands, navigates life in suburbia after being taken in by Peg (Dianne Wiest). His unusual appearance and talent for topiary artistry stir both fascination and fear among the townsfolk. The eccentric inventor (Vincent Price) who created him passes away before he could complete Edward's hands, leaving Edward to grapple with his incomplete nature. Directed by Tim Burton, this blend of fantasy and romance won a BAFTA for Best Production Design.
- Released: 1990
- Directed by: Tim Burton
- A teen gang in rural Oklahoma, the Greasers are perpetually at odds with the Socials, a rival group. When Greasers Ponyboy (C. Thomas Howell) and Johnny (Ralph Macchio) get into a brawl that ends in the death of a Social member, the boys are forced to go into hiding. Soon Ponyboy and Johnny, along with the intense Dallas (Matt Dillon) and their other Greaser buddies, must contend with the consequences of their violent lives. While some Greasers try to achieve redemption, others meet tragic ends.
- Released: 1983
- Directed by: Francis Ford Coppola
- Teenage Cady Heron (Lindsay Lohan) was educated in Africa by her scientist parents. When her family moves to the suburbs of Illinois, Cady finally gets to experience public school and gets a quick primer on the cruel, tacit laws of popularity that divide her fellow students into tightly knit cliques. She unwittingly finds herself in the good graces of an elite group of cool students dubbed "the Plastics," but Cady soon realizes how her shallow group of new friends earned this nickname.
- Released: 2004
- Directed by: Mark Waters
- In the heartland of Indiana, a small-town high school basketball team, led by their new coach Norman Dale (Gene Hackman), embarks on an unlikely journey to the state championship. Dale, a former college coach with a checkered past, employs controversial methods that ruffle feathers in the tight-knit community. His assistant Shooter (Dennis Hopper), a troubled local and former basketball star, aids him in this quest. Hoosiers, inspired by true events from 1954, is a sports drama that received two Academy Award nominations, including one for Hopper's supporting role.
- Released: 1986
- Directed by: David Anspaugh
- Welcome to 10 Things I Hate About You, a modern-day Shakespearean twist that dances on the line of teen romance and biting comedy. Set in an American high school, this late-90s gem revolves around two Stratford sisters: the rebellious Kat (Julia Stiles) and her popular younger sister, Bianca (Larisa Oleynik). When Cameron (Joseph Gordon-Levitt), a new student smitten by Bianca, learns of their father's strict dating rule, he hatches a plan involving bad boy Patrick Verona (Heath Ledger) to woo Kat. Amidst clever banter and unexpected romances, the characters navigate the labyrinth of teenage angst, love, and self-discovery. Noted for its memorable performances and sharp wit, this film is a charming exploration of young love and personal transformation.
- Released: 1999
- Directed by: Gil Junger
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- 2Sam Rockwell90 Votes
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- With the occasion all but overshadowed by her sister's upcoming wedding, angst-ridden Samantha (Molly Ringwald) faces her 16th birthday with typical adolescent dread. Samantha pines for studly older boy Jake (Michael Schoeffling), but worries that her chastity will be a turnoff for the popular senior. Meanwhile, Samantha must constantly rebuff the affections of nerdy Ted (Anthony Michael Hall), the only boy in the school, unfortunately, who seems to take an interest in her.
- Released: 1984
- Directed by: John Hughes
- In the heart-thumping movie Footloose, city teen Ren McCormack, portrayed by Kevin Bacon, finds himself in a tight spot in a small Midwestern town where dancing and rock music have been banned. Reverend Shaw Moore (John Lithgow), the town's spiritual guide and law enforcer, stands as his primary obstacle. Threading the needle of rebellion, Ren challenges the ban to revitalize the spirit of the youth, notably Ariel Moore (Lori Singer), the Reverend's rebellious daughter. This musical drama, peppered with foot-tapping numbers and teenage angst, is a rhythmic dance of defiance against unjust norms.
- Released: 1984
- Directed by: Herbert Ross
- Immerse yourself in the nostalgic whirlwind of American Graffiti, a 1973 comedy-drama directed by George Lucas. The spotlight shines on a group of freshly graduated high school friends, led by Steve Bolander (Ron Howard) and Curt Henderson (Richard Dreyfuss). As they navigate through a single night filled with drag racing, drive-ins and rock 'n' roll, they grapple with life-altering decisions about their futures. This film is an ode to the end of an era, offering a snapshot of American youth in the early 60s. Notably, it received five Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture.
- Released: 1973
- Directed by: George Lucas
- In the realm of horror-comedy, Scary Movie finds its unique niche. Directed by Keenen Ivory Wayans, it's a satirical romp through familiar horror tropes. Cindy Campbell (Anna Faris) is an average high school student whose world spirals into absurdity when she becomes the target of a mysterious killer. Also featuring memorable performances from Marlon Wayans as Shorty Meeks and Regina Hall as Brenda Meeks, Scary Movie parodies iconic scenes from popular horror films, injecting humor into terror. Its unexpected blend of genres ensures an entertaining viewing experience without the usual chills associated with horror flicks.
- Released: 2000
- Directed by: Keenen Ivory Wayans
- As the supernatural extension of the first film, "Scary Movie 2" casts its satirical eye on such iconic classics as "The Exorcist" and "Poltergeist," as well as the more recent films "Hannibal," "What Lies Beneath" and "The House on Haunted Hill." In addition to all things supernatural, it lunges even further, taking on pulp icons including "Charlie's Angels" and "Mission Impossible 2."
- Released: 2001
- Directed by: Keenen Ivory Wayans
- In the comedic science fiction film Weird Science, high school geeks Gary Wallace (Anthony Michael Hall) and Wyatt Donnelly (Ilan Mitchell-Smith) decide to take their fate into their own hands. Using a home computer and some old-fashioned teenage ingenuity, they create Lisa (Kelly LeBrock), a stunningly beautiful woman with a mind of her own. However, the boys soon learn that their creation is more than they bargained for, leading to a series of hilarious and unexpected events. This John Hughes-directed movie artfully combines humor and fantasy, providing an entertaining exploration of adolescent dreams gone awry.
- Released: 1985
- Directed by: John Hughes
- The story of neo-cool Enid (Thora Birch) and Rebecca (Scarlett Johansson) who, faced with graduation from high school, take a hard look at the world they wryly observe and decide what they really want. When Enid takes an interest in the offbeat Seymour (Steve Buscemi) and Rebecca focuses her attention on their mutual romantic fixation Josh (Brad Renfro), the girls' friendship is forever changed.
- Released: 2001
- Directed by: Terry Zwigoff
- In this remake of the horror classic, a group of young travelers -- including Erin (Jessica Biel), Andy (Mike Vogel) and Morgan (Jonathan Tucker) -- comes across an isolated rural home while driving through Texas. Unfortunately for them, the decrepit house is the residence of a family of deranged backwoods killers, most notably a hulking masked brute known as Leatherface (Andrew Bryniarski), who begins to hunt the stranded youths down. Will any of the friends survive the nightmarish ordeal?
- Released: 2003
- Directed by: Marcus Nispel
- Teenage Charley Brewster is a horror-film junkie, so it's no surprise that when a reclusive new neighbor moves next-door, Brewster becomes convinced he's a vampire. It's also no surprise when nobody believes him. After strange events begin to occur, Charlie has no choice but to turn to the only person who could possibly help: washed-up television vampire killer Peter Vincent.
- Released: 1985
- Directed by: Tom Holland
- Tre is sent to live with his father, Furious Styles, in tough South Central Los Angeles. Although his hard-nosed father instills proper values and respect in him, and his devout girlfriend Brandi teaches him about faith, Tre's friends Doughboy and Ricky don't have the same kind of support and are drawn into the neighborhood's booming drug and gang culture, with increasingly tragic results.
- Released: 1991
- Directed by: John Singleton
- Sydney (Neve Campbell) and tabloid reporter Gale Weathers (Courteney Cox) survived the events of the first Scream, but their nightmare isn't over. When two college students are murdered at a sneak preview of Stab, a movie based on the events from the first film, it's clear a copycat killer is on the loose. Sydney and Gail, as well as fellow survivors Deputy Dewey (David Arquette) and Randy (Jamie Kennedy) have to find out who is behind this new murder spree, before they all end up dead.
- Released: 1997
- Directed by: Wes Craven
- To the students at Harrington High, the principal and her posse of teachers have always been a little odd, but lately they've been behaving positively alien. Controlled by otherworldly parasites, the faculty try to infect students one by one. Cheerleader Delilah (Jordana Brewster), football player Stan (Shawn Hatosy), drug dealer Zeke (Josh Hartnett) and new girl Marybeth (Laura Harris) team up with some of their other classmates to fight back against the invaders.
- Released: 1998
- Directed by: Robert Rodriguez
- Andie (Molly Ringwald) is an outcast at her Chicago high school, hanging out either with her older boss (Annie Potts), who owns the record store where she works, or her quirky classmate Duckie (Jon Cryer), who has a crush on her. When one of the rich and popular kids at school, Blane (Andrew McCarthy), asks Andie out, it seems too good to be true. As Andie starts falling for Blane, she begins to realizes that dating someone from a different social sphere is not easy.
- Released: 1986
- Directed by: Howard Deutch
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- 2Clueless42 Votes
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- Dim-witted Cindy Campbell (Anna Faris) and her sex-crazed friend, Brenda (Regina Hall), team up with cute-but-clueless Tom Ryan (Craig Bierko) to save the world from a hostile alien invasion, with hints of "War of the Worlds," "Saw II," "Million Dollar Baby" and "The Village." Celebrity cameos include Carmen Electra, Shaquille O'Neal, Dr. Phil McGraw, Bill Pullman, Molly Shannon and Michael Madsen.
- Released: 2006
- Directed by: David Zucker
- After newspaper reporter Cindy (Anna Faris) accidentally watches a strange videotape that causes the viewer to die within a week, she discovers the tape is only one of many weird happenings. Local farmers Tom (Charlie Sheen) and George (Simon Rex) have reported massive crop circles appearing overnight in their fields. Cindy finds a link between the tape and the crop circles with help from the U.S. president (Leslie Nielsen) and a kindly aunt (Queen Latifah).
- Released: 2003
- Directed by: David Zucker
- In the zany, comedic sci-fi film Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure, two high school slackers, Bill (Alex Winter) and Ted (Keanu Reeves), encounter an unexpected twist of fate. A visitor from the future bestows upon them a time-traveling phone booth to aid their quest for knowledge. The duo embarks on a wild journey through time, meeting historical figures like Napoleon Bonaparte and Socrates along the way. This whirlwind adventure tests their friendship and alters their perspective on life. It's a cultural odyssey, marked by humor and history, that showcases the dynamic performances of its lead actors.
- Released: 1989
- Directed by: Stephen Herek
- On a chilling Friday the 13th, Camp Crystal Lake reopens after two decades of closure following a series of tragic accidents. The new group of young, energetic counselors, including Alice (Adrienne King) and Bill (Harry Crosby), are unaware of the ominous history that haunts this seemingly serene locale. As darkness descends upon the camp, an unknown assailant begins to pick them off one by one. Directed by Sean S. Cunningham, this seminal horror film combines suspenseful storytelling with a haunting score to create a classic slasher flick that birthed the infamous character Jason Voorhees, albeit in his mother's guise initially.
- Released: 1980
- Directed by: Sean S. Cunningham
- After a year apart - attending different schools, meeting different people - the guys rent a beach house and vow to make this the best summer ever. As it turns out, whether that will happen or not has a lot to do with the girls. Between the wild parties, outrageous revelations and yes, a trip to band camp, they discover that times change and people change, but in the end, it's all about sticking together.
- Released: 2001
- Directed by: James B. Rogers
- At last, Bella (Kristen Stewart) and Edward (Robert Pattinson) are getting married. When Jacob (Taylor Lautner) finds out that Bella wants to spend her honeymoon as a human, he is horrified -- for Edward's passion could accidentally kill her. Bella does indeed survive her honeymoon, but a new complication arises when she discovers that she's pregnant -- and the child is growing at an alarming rate. The pregnancy sets the wolves against Bella and Edward, but Jacob vows to protect his friend.
- Released: 2011
- Directed by: Bill Condon
- In the murky depths of the 1987 cult classic Near Dark, a young cowboy Caleb Colton (Adrian Pasdar) finds himself ensnared in a nocturnal world after an encounter with the mysterious Mae (Jenny Wright). Unbeknownst to him, Mae is part of a roving gang of vampires led by the ruthless Jesse Hooker (Lance Henriksen). With his transformation into a vampire underway, Caleb is torn between his new bloodthirsty existence and his longing for his former life. As he navigates this treacherous path, he must make a choice that could seal his fate forever. This film melds horror and western genres, creating an unusual but captivating cinematic experience.
- Released: 1987
- Directed by: Kathryn Bigelow
- Alex Browning (Devon Sawa), is embarking on a trip to Paris. Alex experiences a premonition -- he sees the plane explode moments after leaving the ground. Alex insists that everyone get off the plane and 7 people including Alex, are forced to disembark. All watch as the plane actually explodes in a fireball. He and the other survivors have briefly cheated death, but will not be able to evade their fate for very long. One by one, these fugitives from fate fall victim to the grim reaper.
- Released: 2000
- Directed by: James Wong
- In the high school comedy Can't Hardly Wait, seniors celebrate the end of an era with a wild graduation party. The film features Preston Meyers (Ethan Embry), an aspiring writer in love with Amanda Beckett (Jennifer Love Hewitt), the newly-single prom queen. Parallel to this, the geeky William Lichter (Charlie Korsmo) plans revenge on Mike Dexter (Peter Facinelli), the popular jock. A stellar ensemble cast, including Seth Green and Lauren Ambrose, adds to the film's appeal. As the night unfurls, dreams are pursued, hearts broken, and destinies redefined. Filled with comedic twists and turns, it's a nostalgic homage to teenage years.
- Released: 1998
- Directed by: Deborah Kaplan, Harry Elfont
- Shy San Francisco teenager Mia Thermopolis (Anne Hathaway) is thrown for a loop when, from out of the blue, she learns the astonishing news that she's a real-life princess! As the heir apparent to the crown of the small European principality of Genovia, Mia begins a comical journey toward the throne when her strict and formidable grandmother, Queen Clarisse Renaldi (Julie Andrews), shows up to give her "princess lessons."
- Released: 2001
- Directed by: Garry Marshall
- A year after running over a fisherman and dumping his body in the water, four friends reconvene when Julie (Jennifer Love Hewitt) receives a frightening letter telling her that their crime was seen. While pursuing who he thinks is responsible for the letter, Barry (Ryan Phillippe) is run over by a man with a meat hook. The bloodletting only increases from there, as the killer with the hook continues to stalk Julie, Helen (Sarah Michelle Gellar) and Ray (Freddie Prinze Jr.).
- Released: 1997
- Directed by: Jim Gillespie
- Bend It Like Beckham, a British comedy-drama, weaves the story of Jesminder Bhamra (Parminder Nagra), a young Sikh woman smitten with football. Amidst cultural clashes and family expectations, she nurtures her passion clandestinely, inspired by her idol David Beckham. Her talent catches the eye of Jules Paxton (Keira Knightley), leading to an unlikely alliance in a local women's team. Directed by Gurinder Chadha, this film won the BBC's Britain's Best Film award. It explores themes of identity, aspiration, and friendship, against the backdrop of multicultural London. Multilayered yet accessible, it's a unique blend of sports and social commentary.
- Released: 2002
- Directed by: Gurinder Chadha
- In West Canaan, Texas, high school football reigns supreme. When starting quarterback Lance Harbor (Paul Walker) turns up injured, the Coyotes' ruthless coach, Bud Kilmer (Jon Voight), must promote benchwarmer Jonathon "Mox" Moxon (James Van Der Beek) to lead the team in its quest for a divisional title. Suddenly thrown into the spotlight, Mox must deal with the pressure of carrying the aspirations of an entire town on his shoulders, as he struggles to pursue his own very different dreams.
- Released: 1999
- Directed by: Brian Robbins
- The Toro cheerleading squad from Rancho Carne High School in San Diego has got spirit, spunk, sass and a killer routine that's sure to land them the national championship trophy for the sixth year in a row. But for newly-elected team captain Torrance, the Toros' road to total cheer glory takes a shady turn when she discovers that their perfectly-choreographed routines were in fact stolen from the Clovers, a hip-hop squad from East Compton, by the Toro's former captain.
- Released: 2000
- Directed by: Peyton Reed
- Logan Lerman, Brandon T. Jackson, Alexandra DaddarioIn Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Lightning Thief, Percy Jackson (Logan Lerman) finds his world turned upside down when he discovers he's no ordinary teenager, but a demigod. Son of Poseidon (Kevin McKidd), Percy embarks on a fantastical journey across modern-day America to prevent a war among the gods. With his friends Annabeth Chase (Alexandra Daddario) and Grover Underwood (Brandon T. Jackson), they must retrieve Zeus's stolen lightning bolt and clear Percy's name. This action-packed adventure film, directed by Chris Columbus, weaves Greek mythology into contemporary times, offering a fresh take on classic tales.
- Released: 2010
- Directed by: Chris Columbus
- In A Nightmare on Elm Street 3: Dream Warriors, the infamous Freddy Krueger (Robert Englund) returns to torment the youths of Springwood, Ohio. This time, his victims are a group of troubled teens at a psychiatric hospital. The narrative spotlights a young woman, Kristen Parker (Patricia Arquette), who possesses a unique ability to draw others into her dreams. She and the other patients band together under the guidance of returning character Nancy Thompson (Heather Langenkamp). They form the titular Dream Warriors, using their dream powers to battle Krueger in his own realm. This horror flick is known for its inventive dream sequences and creative special effects, adding an extra layer of surreal terror to this third installment of the popular franchise.
- Released: 1987
- Directed by: Chuck Russell
- When Scottie Smalls (Thomas Guiry) moves to a new neighborhood, he manages to make friends with a group of kids who play baseball at the sandlot. Together they go on a series of funny and touching adventures. The boys run into trouble when Smalls borrows a ball from his stepdad that gets hit over a fence.
- Released: 1993
- Directed by: David M. Evans
- In the third installment of the iconic Scream series, Sidney Prescott (Neve Campbell) finds herself once again in the crosshairs of the Ghostface killer. Yet this time, Hollywood is the backdrop. The production of Stab 3, a movie within the movie, becomes an eerie echo of reality as cast members are targeted by an all-too-familiar masked murderer. Gale Weathers (Courteney Cox) and Dewey Riley (David Arquette) return to help unravel a chilling mystery that ties back to their shared past. With director Wes Craven at the helm, Scream 3 intertwines suspense, drama, and self-aware satire in its unique blend of horror and comedy.
- Released: 2000
- Directed by: Wes Craven
- As a baby, Ella (Anne Hathaway) receives a visit from Lucinda (Vivica A. Fox), her fairy godmother, and is bestowed with a magical talent that requires her to obey anything that she is told to do. This proves to be more of a curse than a blessing, particularly once her mother dies and she is forced to live with the cruel Dame Olga (Joanna Lumley). Eventually, Ella embarks on a journey to find Lucinda and break the spell, accompanied by the handsome Prince Charmont (Hugh Dancy).
- Released: 2004
- Directed by: Tommy O'Haver
- Set in North Carolina, "A Walk To Remember" follows the rite of passage of a jaded, aimless high school senior (Shane West) who falls in love with a guileless young woman (Mandy Moore) he and his friends once scorned. The two develop a powerful and inspirational relationship in which they discover truths that take most people a lifetime to learn.
- Released: 2002
- Directed by: Adam Shankman
- Mike O'Donnell (Matthew Perry) was a high-school basketball star with a bright future, but he threw it all away to marry his girlfriend and raise their child. Almost 20 years later, Mike's marriage has failed, his kids think he's a loser, and his job is going nowhere. He gets a chance to correct the mistakes of his past and change his life when he is miraculously transformed into a teenager (Zac Efron), but in trying to fix his past, Mike may be jeopardizing his present and future.
- Released: 2009
- Directed by: Burr Steers
- Eighteen-year-old Matthew Kidman (Emile Hirsch) is a straight-arrow overachiever who has never really lived life... until he falls for his new neighbor, the beautiful and seemingly innocent Danielle (Elisha Cuthbert). When Matthew discovers this perfect girl next door is a one-time porn star, his sheltered existence begins to spin out of control. Ultimately, Danielle helps Matthew emerge from his shell and discover that sometimes you have to risk everything for the person you love.
- Released: 2004
- Directed by: Luke Greenfield
- Teenagers Nancy, Quentin, Kris, Jesse and Dean are all neighborhood friends who begin having the same dream of a horribly disfigured man who wears a tattered sweater and a glove made of knives. The man, Freddy Krueger (Jackie Earle Haley), terrorizes them in their dreams, and the only escape is to wake up. But when one of their number dies violently, the friends realize that what happens in the dream world is real, and the only way to stay alive is to stay awake.
- Released: 2010
- Directed by: Samuel Bayer
- In the film Wrong Turn, a group of six friends, including medical student Chris Flynn (Desmond Harrington) and Jessie Burlingame (Eliza Dushku), find themselves stranded in the West Virginia wilderness. Their car troubles lead them to a remote cabin, where they soon discover they are not alone. They fall prey to a trio of disfigured, cannibalistic mountain men. Directed by Rob Schmidt, this horror-thriller tests their survival skills and ability to outwit these horrifying predators, as they desperately try to escape the woods alive. The film is known for its intense suspense and chilling storyline that unfolds amidst an eerie Appalachian backdrop.
- Released: 2003
- Directed by: Rob Schmidt
- After the abrupt departure of Edward (Robert Pattinson), her vampire love, Bella (Kristen Stewart) finds comfort in her deepening friendship with Jacob Black (Taylor Lautner). However Bella's loyalties are put to the test as she becomes drawn into the world of werewolves, ancient enemies of vampires.
- Released: 2009
- Directed by: Chris Weitz
- A smart high-school student with his heart set on going to Stanford is horrified when his guidance counselor accidentally sends the wrong transcript with his college application. He spends the rest of the film trying to prove that he's actually a good student with a terrific grade-point average.
- Released: 2002
- Directed by: Jake Kasdan
- In Can't Buy Me Love, Ronald Miller (Patrick Dempsey) is a high school nerd yearning for popularity. Cindy Mancini (Amanda Peterson), the school's cheerleader queen, unexpectedly becomes his ticket to the in-crowd. When her mother's expensive outfit gets ruined, desperate Cindy agrees to Ronald's proposition: he will pay for the dress if she pretends to be his girlfriend. As they navigate through teenage hierarchies and social expectations, this 80s teen comedy-drama explores themes of acceptance, authenticity, and love beyond superficiality. The movie boasts engaging performances from its leads and offers a charmingly nostalgic trip back to high school life in the Reagan era.
- Released: 1987
- Directed by: Steve Rash
- Sara (Julia Stiles) is moved from a small Midwestern town to the south side of Chicago when her mother dies in a car accident, and must live with her father. She soon falls for an African American teenager (Sean Patrick Thomas) at her new high school and he has less than an idyllic past. They share a love for dance (ballet and hip hop respectively) and together they tackle the problems that go with an interracial relationship.
- Released: 2001
- Directed by: Thomas Carter
- She's All That is a 1999 romantic comedy, directed by Robert Iscove. The film centers around high school jock Zack Siler (Freddie Prinze Jr.) who, after being dumped by his girlfriend, makes a bet that he can turn any girl into prom queen within six weeks. Enter Laney Boggs (Rachael Leigh Cook), an introverted art student, the subject of Zack's transformation experiment. As Zack navigates the challenges of this undertaking, unexpected feelings begin to emerge. This lighthearted film explores themes of popularity, authenticity, and the unpredictability of love in the high school setting.
- Released: 1999
- Directed by: Robert Iscove
- Bubbling with teen spirit, A Cinderella Story is a modern spin on the classic fairy tale. Sam Montgomery (Hilary Duff), a downtrodden diner girl, dreams of attending Princeton University, but her wicked stepmother (Jennifer Coolidge) and stepsisters stand in her way. An online friendship blossoms into a possible romance with school quarterback Austin Ames (Chad Michael Murray). However, the two have never met face-to-face. Will they ever discover each other's true identities? This 2004 romantic comedy combines high-school drama with the magic of anonymity and anticipation.
- Released: 2004
- Directed by: Mark Rosman
- After moving to a new town, troublemaking teen Jim Stark (James Dean) is supposed to have a clean slate, although being the new kid in town brings its own problems. While searching for some stability, Stark forms a bond with a disturbed classmate, Plato (Sal Mineo), and falls for local girl Judy (Natalie Wood). However, Judy is the girlfriend of neighborhood tough, Buzz (Corey Allen). When Buzz violently confronts Jim and challenges him to a drag race, the new kid's real troubles begin.
- Released: 1955
- Directed by: Nicholas Ray
- Teenage dealer Johnny Truelove (Emile Hirsch) and his friends kidnap the impressionable younger brother (Anton Yelchin) of a junkie (Ben Foster) who refuses to pay his drug debt. Things change unexpectedly when Frankie (Justin Timberlake), one of Johnny's pals, befriends the youth.
- Released: 2006
- Directed by: Nick Cassavetes
- In The Virgin Suicides, an enigmatic tale unfolds in a quiet suburban neighborhood. The Lisbon sisters, Lux (Kirsten Dunst), Mary (A.J. Cook), Therese (Leslie Hayman), Bonnie (Chelse Swain), and Cecilia (Hanna Hall) are the focus of fascination for a group of neighborhood boys. Guided by the strict hand of their mother (Kathleen Turner) and passive presence of their father (James Woods), these girls navigate adolescence under a heavy shroud of repression and mystery. As the film meanders through this labyrinth of teenage turmoil, it subtly explores themes of isolation, longing, and the tragic consequences of suffocating innocence. This dramatic piece is directed by Sofia Coppola, who won Best First Feature at Independent Spirit Awards for this haunting debut.
- Released: 1999
- Directed by: Sofia Coppola
- In Real Genius, the spotlight shines on two brilliant students, Mitch Taylor (Gabriel Jarret) and Chris Knight (Val Kilmer). They are enrolled at Pacific Tech, a university renowned for its technology programs. The young prodigy Mitch is paired with the eccentric genius Chris under the mentorship of the manipulative Professor Hathaway (William Atherton). Unbeknownst to them, their project has covert military applications. As they uncover this truth, they must outwit both their professor and the U.S. government to prevent potential catastrophe. This 1985 comedy-drama delivers a blend of humor, intelligence, and youthful rebellion against authority.
- Released: 1985
- Directed by: Martha Coolidge
- Sky High, a unique blend of teen drama and superhero action, whisks us to an extraordinary high school in the sky. Will Stronghold (Michael Angarano), son of world-renowned superheroes The Commander (Kurt Russell) and Jetstream (Kelly Preston), grapples with his yet-to-surface powers. Simultaneously navigating adolescent challenges and superhuman expectations, he befriends other hero support students like Layla (Danielle Panabaker). When danger looms, these unlikely heroes must rise to the occasion. With memorable characters and inventive storytelling, Sky High explores identity, friendship, and heroism within a vibrant comic-book universe.
- Released: 2005
- Directed by: Mike Mitchell
- In the heart-pounding rhythm of New York City, Fame sweeps you into the high stakes world of a group of teenagers attending the prestigious High School for the Performing Arts. The narrative follows their journey from auditions to graduation, as they navigate personal and professional struggles. Their stories intertwine through characters like ambitious dancer Coco Hernandez (Irene Cara), talented but dyslexic drummer Leroy Johnson (Gene Anthony Ray), and classical pianist Bruno Martelli (Lee Curreri). This musical drama won two Academy Awards, earning its place in cinematic history with its raw portrayal of artistic pursuit.
- Released: 1980
- Directed by: Alan Parker
- High school wrestler Louden Swain (Matthew Modine) feels he must do something significant in his life shortly after turning 18. Despite vehement advice against it from his father (Ronny Cox) and coach (Charles Hallahan), Swain decides to try to lose over 20 pounds in a very short time in an attempt to take on the defending state champion of a lower weight class. Meanwhile, he falls for the edgy, older Carla (Linda Fiorentino), who provides further distraction for the young wrestler.
- Released: 1985
- Directed by: Harold Becker
- In the gritty drama Thirteen, Tracy Freeland (Evan Rachel Wood) is a promising student whose life spirals out of control after befriending the rebellious Evie Zamora (Nikki Reed). As Tracy plunges headfirst into a world of petty crime and substance abuse, her mother, Melanie (Holly Hunter), struggles to save her from self-destruction. Directed by Catherine Hardwicke, this stark portrayal of adolescence earned Holly Hunter an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress. Thirteen is a riveting exploration of teenage turmoil, peer pressure, and parental desperation.
- Released: 2003
- Directed by: Catherine Hardwicke
- In Halloween H20: 20 Years Later, Laurie Strode (Jamie Lee Curtis) is back, now a headmistress of a Northern California private school under an assumed name. She's been living in fear, haunted by memories of her murderous brother, Michael Myers. When Halloween rolls around, she becomes increasingly paranoid that Michael will come for her and her teenage son (Josh Hartnett). The suspense builds as the dreaded day approaches, culminating in a thrilling face-off between Laurie and Michael. This horror-thriller marks the twentieth anniversary of the original Halloween, bringing back Curtis in her iconic role and offering fans a nerve-wracking continuation of this infamous saga.
- Released: 1998
- Directed by: Steve Miner
- Set against the high-energy, high-stakes world of show-style marching bands, "Drumline" is a fish-out-of-water comedy about a talented street drummer from Harlem who enrolls in a Southern university, expecting to lead its marching band's drumline to victory. He initially flounders in his new world before realizing that it takes a more than talent to reach the top.
- Released: 2002
- Directed by: Charles Stone
- Cry-Baby is a 1990 American teen musical romantic comedy film written and directed by John Waters. It stars Johnny Depp as 1950s teen rebel "Cry-Baby" Wade Walker, and also features a large ensemble cast that includes Amy Locane, Polly Bergen, Susan Tyrrell, Iggy Pop, Ricki Lake, and Traci Lords with appearances by Troy Donahue, Joe Dallesandro, Joey Heatherton, David Nelson, and Patricia Hearst. The story centers on a group of delinquents that refer to themselves as "drapes" and their interaction with the rest of the town and its other subculture, the "squares", in 1950s Baltimore, Maryland. "Cry-Baby" Walker, a drape, and Allison, a square, create upheaval and turmoil in their little town of Baltimore by breaking the subculture taboos and falling in love. The film shows what the young couple has to overcome to be together and how their actions affect the rest of the town. Part of the film takes place at the now-closed Enchanted Forest amusement park in Ellicott City, Maryland. Others take place in the historic towns of Reisterstown, Jessup, Milford Mill, and Sykesville, Maryland.
- Released: 1990
- Directed by: John Waters
- A gang of college friends, including Wade (Jared Padalecki) and his girlfriend, Carly (Elisha Cuthbert), are en route to a school football game when they wind up with a flat tire in a ghost town. They are forced to seek help in the only place that's open: the local wax museum. Once inside the spooky and seemingly abandoned building, they find the works on display are not quite what they seem -- and the group soon discovers it's being hunted by the insane twin brothers who run the museum.
- Released: 2005
- Directed by: Jaume Collet-Serra
- Tyler Gage (Channing Tatum) has been in and out of trouble for most of his life and after finding himself before the judge again, he is sentenced to 200 hours of community service mopping floors at the Maryland School of the Arts. He quickly catches the eye of Nora (Jenna Dewan), a gifted ballet student, who is trying to use hip-hop moves with her classical routines. After some initial hesitation, Nora convinces Tyler to help her with her dance routines and the sparks fly.
- Released: 2006
- Directed by: Anne Fletcher
- Six years after a group of high-school students first cheated death, another teen (Mary Elizabeth Winstead) has a premonition that she and her friends will be involved in a horrifying roller-coaster accident. When the vision proves true, the student and her fellow survivors must deal with the repercussions of cheating the Grim Reaper.
- Released: 2006
- Directed by: James Wong
- When David Greene (Brendan Fraser) receives a football scholarship to a prestigious prep school in the 1950s, he feels pressure to hide the fact that he is Jewish from his classmates and teachers, fearing that they may be anti-Semitic. He quickly becomes the big man on campus thanks to his football skills, but when his Jewish background is discovered, his worst fears are realized and his friends (Matt Damon, Chris O'Donnell) turn on him with violent threats and public ridicule.
- Released: 1992
- Directed by: Robert Mandel
- Ever since his father died, young Kale (Shia LaBeouf) has become increasingly sullen and withdrawn, until he finds himself under house arrest. With cabin fever setting in, he turns his attention to spying on his neighbors, becoming increasingly suspicious that one of them is a serial killer. However, he wonders if he is right, or if his overactive imagination is getting the better of him.
- Released: 2007
- Directed by: D.J. Caruso
- In Saved!, Mary (Jena Malone), a devout high school student, experiences a crisis of faith when she becomes pregnant after attempting to save her gay boyfriend. She navigates the tumultuous waters of teenage life and religious fervor with her rebellious friend Cassandra (Eva Amurri), the only Jewish girl in their Christian school. Striding between satire and teen drama, this movie humorously unravels notions of faith, friendship, and acceptance in an evangelical world. Mandy Moore shines as the holier-than-thou Hilary Faye, while Macaulay Culkin adds intrigue as Roland, Hilary's wheelchair-bound brother.
- Released: 2004
- Directed by: Brian Dannelly
- Josie (Rachael Leigh Cook), Melody (Tara Reid) and Val (Rosario Dawson) are three small-town girl musicians determined to take their rock band out of their garage and straight to the top, while remaining true to their look, style and sound. They get a record deal which brings fame and fortune but soon realize they are pawns of two people who want to control the youth of America. They must clear their names, even if it means losing fame and fortune.
- Released: 2001
- Directed by: Deborah Kaplan, Harry Elfont
- Annette (Reese Witherspoon) unwittingly becomes a pawn in Sebastian's (Ryan Phillippe) and Kathryn's (Sarah Michelle Gellar) deliciously diabolical wager of sexual conquest when she writes an article in Seventeen Magazine about how she intends to stay pure until she marries her boyfriend. However, Sebastian gets more than he bargained for as he attempts to woo Annette into his bed.
- Released: 1999
- Directed by: Roger Kumble
- Xavier (Bow Wow), a teenage boy in Chicago, struggles with the loss of his mother and turns to roller skating as a way to deal with his angst. He and his friends are the stars of the skating rink they frequent, but this is about to change. When it closes down, they have no choice but to try out a more upscale spot, the Sweetwater Roller Rink. There, they enroll in a skating contest, and have to prove themselves to the reigning champions, headed by a skater named Sweetness.
- Released: 2005
- Directed by: Malcolm D. Lee
- In the cross-genre horror film Freddy vs. Jason, iconic movie monsters Freddy Krueger (Robert Englund) and Jason Voorhees (Ken Kirzinger) come to life in a terrifying clash. As the denizens of Elm Street find their dreams hijacked by Freddy, they realize that their only hope lies in summoning Jason, the infamous slasher of Camp Crystal Lake. The plot thickens as these two titans of terror battle each other, leaving a trail of fear and destruction in their wake. Directed by Ronny Yu, this movie intertwines elements of supernatural horror with slasher tropes, creating a unique cinematic experience that redefines the boundaries of its genre. Despite its spine-chilling theme, Freddy vs. Jason is characterized by an undercurrent of dark humor, adding an unexpected twist to this classic tale of good versus evil - or more accurately, evil versus evil.
- Released: 2003
- Directed by: Ronnie Yu
- Troy Bolton (Zac Efron), the star athlete at a small-town high school, falls for nerdy beauty Gabriella Montez (Vanessa Anne Hudgens) at a holiday karaoke party. When they return to campus, Troy and Gabriella audition for the upcoming school musical. Meanwhile, the jealous Sharpay Evans (Ashley Tisdale) conspires to squelch their chances. The two must struggle to make it to auditions while also meeting their existing obligations to the basketball team and the academic decathlon.
- Released: 2006
- Directed by: Kenny Ortega
- Megan (Natasha Lyonne) considers herself a typical American girl. She excels in school and cheerleading, and she has a handsome football-playing boyfriend, even though she isn't that crazy about him. So she's stunned when her parents decide she's gay and send her to True Directions, a boot camp meant to alter her sexual orientation. While there, Megan meets a rebellious and unashamed teen lesbian, Graham (Clea DuVall). Though Megan still feels confused, she starts to have feelings for Graham.
- Released: 1999
- Directed by: Jamie Babbit
- A drought in 1970s Southern California has an unexpected side effect: as people empty their swimming pools, a group of teen surfers from the Dogtown area of Venice Beach move in with skateboards, and a new sport is born. Based on a true story, this film follows "Z-Boys" skate team members Stacy Peralta (John Robinson), Tony Alva (Victor Rasuk) and Jay Adams (Emile Hirsch), plus manager Skip Engblom (Heath Ledger), as their fearless "pool surfing" leads to fame, fortune -- and misfortune.
- Released: 2005
- Directed by: Catherine Hardwicke
- When plans with her boyfriend fall through, high school senior Chris Parker (Elisabeth Shue) ends up babysitting the Anderson kids, Brad (Keith Coogan) and Sara (Maia Brewton). What should be a quiet night in, however, turns into a series of ridiculous exploits, starting when they leave the house to pick up Chris' friend Brenda (Penelope Ann Miller). Soon, Brad's buddy Daryl (Anthony Rapp) is involved, and the group must contend with car thieves, blues musicians and much more.
- Released: 1987
- Directed by: Chris Columbus
- In What a Girl Wants, Daphne Reynolds (Amanda Bynes) embarks on a journey from New York to London, seeking to reconnect with her long-lost father, Lord Henry Dashwood (Colin Firth). Raised by her single mother, Libby (Kelly Preston), Daphne's curiosity about her aristocratic lineage grows, prompting this transatlantic adventure. The film, a delightful blend of comedy and drama, explores themes of self-discovery and familial reconciliation. As Daphne navigates British high society and the endearing complications of newfound family ties, she remains true to herself, adding charm to this engaging narrative.
- Released: 2003
- Directed by: Dennie Gordon
- Reality and fantasy meet in unsettling ways in this installment of the long-running horror series, which finds director Wes Craven and actors Heather Langenkamp and Robert Englund all portraying themselves. As Heather (Heather Langenkamp) considers making another film with Craven, her son, Dylan (Miko Hughes), falls under the spell of the iconic disfigured villain Freddy Krueger (Robert Englund). Eventually, Langenkamp must confront Freddy's demonic spirit to save the soul of Dylan.
- Released: 1994
- Directed by: Wes Craven
- In Urban Legend, college students find themselves preyed upon by a mysterious killer who turns widely known urban legends into grisly reality. Natalie (Alicia Witt) is the central character, a student at Pendleton University, surrounded by friends Brenda (Rebecca Gayheart), Paul (Jared Leto), and Parker (Michael Rosenbaum). As the group unravels the truth behind these terrifying tales, they're plunged into an all-too-real nightmare. The suspense thriller, directed by Jamie Blanks, explores themes of folklore and fear in a modern academic setting. Will the students decipher the deadly pattern in time? A chilling narrative unfolds.
- Released: 1998
- Directed by: Jamie Blanks
- After receiving a frantic phone call from his ex-girlfriend, teenage loner Brendan Frye (Joseph Gordon-Levitt) learns that her dead body has been found. Vowing to solve her murder himself, he must infiltrate high-school cliques that he previously avoided. His search for the truth places him before some of the school's roughest characters, leading to a confrontation with a drug dealer known as "the Pin (Lukas Haas)."
- Released: 2005
- Directed by: Rian Johnson
- After a spurned classmate curses him, a teen will be forever ugly unless he finds love.
- Released: 2011
- Directed by: Daniel Barnz
- In A Nightmare on Elm Street 2: Freddy's Revenge, the sinister specter of Freddy Krueger (Robert Englund) returns to haunt the dreams of Jesse Walsh (Mark Patton), a teenager living in the former Elm Street house. As sleep becomes a battleground, Jesse is tormented by nightmarish visions and a terrifying transformation looms. His girlfriend Lisa (Kim Myers) must unravel the mystery of Freddy's revenge before it consumes Jesse completely. This horror sequel, steeped in suspense and unexpected twists, delves deeper into the twisted realm of dream-stalking Freddy.
- Released: 1985
- Directed by: Jack Sholder
- Murderous ghoul Freddy Krueger (Robert Englund) has slaughtered every last child in his hometown. He ventures on to a new location, scouting fresh young victims to hack up with his finger blades. He arrives in a small town in which his long-lost daughter, Maggie (Lisa Zane), works as a therapist for troubled youths. He attempts to recruit her for his dastardly pursuits, but she has other ideas. Father and daughter meet for a bloody showdown that will determine Freddy's fate once and for all.
- Released: 1991
- Directed by: Rachel Talalay
- Amiable slackers Bill (Alex Winter) and Ted (Keanu Reeves) are once again roped into a fantastical adventure when De Nomolos (Joss Ackland), a villain from the future, sends evil robot duplicates of the two lads to terminate and replace them. The robot doubles actually succeed in killing Bill and Ted, but the two are determined to escape the afterlife, challenging the Grim Reaper (William Sadler) to a series of games in order to return to the land of the living.
- Released: 1991
- Directed by: Peter Hewitt
- Three college roommates, Derrick (James Marsden), Jones (Lena Headey) and Travis (Norman Reedus), create a class project on gossip. They decide to start a rumor stating that Naomi Preston (Kate Hudson), who has openly admitted she is saving herself for marriage, was seen at a crowded college party having sex with her boyfriend, Beau (Joshua Jackson). They aim to track the rumor to see how it spreads and evolves, but they are shocked when Naomi promptly accuses Beau of rape.
- Released: 2000
- Directed by: Davis Guggenheim
- After transferring to a Los Angeles high school, Sarah (Robin Tunney) finds that her telekinetic gift appeals to a group of three wannabe witches, who happen to be seeking a fourth member for their rituals. Bonnie (Neve Campbell), Rochelle (Rachel True) and Nancy (Fairuza Balk), like Sarah herself, all have troubled backgrounds, which combined with their nascent powers lead to dangerous consequences. When a minor spell causes a fellow student to lose her hair, the girls grow power-mad.
- Released: 1996
- Directed by: Andrew Fleming
- In Los Angeles, a colorful assortment of bohemians try to make sense of their intersecting lives. The moody Dark Smith (James Duval), his bisexual girlfriend (Rachel True), her lesbian lover (Kathleen Robertson) and their shy gay friend (Nathan Bexton) plan on attending the wildest party of the year. But they'll only make it if they can survive the drug trips, suicides, trysts, rapes, mutilations and alien abductions that occur as one surreal day unfolds.
- Released: 1997
- Directed by: Gregg Araki
- Veronica (Winona Ryder) is part of the most popular clique at her high school, but she disapproves of the other girls' cruel behavior. When Veronica and her new boyfriend, J.D. (Christian Slater), confront clique leader Heather Chandler (Kim Walker) and accidentally poison her, they make it appear a suicide. Soon Veronica realizes that J.D. is intentionally killing students he does not like. She races to stop J.D. while also clashing with the clique's new leader, Heather Duke (Shannen Doherty).
- Released: 1989
- Directed by: Michael Lehmann
- In The Basketball Diaries, Jim Carroll (Leonardo DiCaprio) navigates the gritty streets of Manhattan, wrestling with adolescence and addiction. A gifted high school basketball player, Jim's life spirals into turmoil as he descends into drug abuse, crime, and homelessness. Assisted by his friends Mickey (Mark Wahlberg), Pedro (James Madio), and Neutron (Patrick McGaw), Jim's world is a mix of sports dreams and street nightmares. Based on the autobiographical work by Carroll himself, this drama delivers an unflinching look at the destructive power of addiction and the struggle for redemption.
- Released: 1995
- Directed by: Scott Kalvert
- Joe (Anthony LaPaglia) runs Empire Records, an independent Delaware store that employs a tight-knit group of music-savvy youths. Hearing that the shop may be sold to a big chain, slacker employee Lucas (Rory Cochrane) bets a chunk of the store's money, hoping to get a big return. When this plan fails, Empire Records falls into serious trouble, and the various other clerks, including lovely Corey (Liv Tyler) and gloomy Deb (Robin Tunney), must deal with the problem, among many other issues.
- Released: 1995
- Directed by: Allan Moyle
- Stefan Djordjevic (Tom Cruise), the star player of his high school football team, is desperately hoping that his football talents will earn him a scholarship -- his only chance to get out of his dying hometown of Ampipe, Pennsylvania. When a heated argument with his coach (Craig T. Nelson) gets him kicked off the team and blacklisted from college recruiters, Stefan must fight for a chance to live out his dream and escape the dead-end future he faces.
- Released: 1983
- Directed by: Michael Chapman
- Chrissie (Jordana Brewster) and her friends (Matthew Bomer, Taylor Handley, Diora Baird) set out on a road trip for a final fling before one is shipped off to Vietnam. Along the way, bikers (Lee Tergesen, Cyia Batten) harass the foursome and cause an accident that throws Chrissie from the vehicle. The lawman who arrives on the scene kills one of the bikers and brings Chrissie's friends to the Hewitt homestead, where young Leatherface (Andrew Bryniarski) is learning the tools of terror.
- Released: 2006
- Directed by: Jonathan Liebesman
- A teenage hacker finds himself framed for the theft of millions of dollars from a major corporation. Master hacker Dade Murphy, aka Zero Cool, aka Crash Override, has been banned from touching a keyboard for seven years after crashing over 1,500 Wall Street computers at the age of 11. Now keen to get back in front of a monitor, he finds himself in more trouble than ever.
- Released: 1995
- Directed by: Iain Softley
- A coming-of-age romantic comedy set against the backdrop of the Cape Cod Baseball League. Local boy Ryan Dunne (Freddie Prinze Jr.), now a pitcher for Boston College, meets Tenley Parrish (Jessica Biel), the daughter of a wealthy couple who summer on the Cape. Ryan and Tenley fall in love, much to the chagrin of their families, while Ryan clings to one last hope of being discovered and signed to a pro baseball contract.
- Released: 2001
- Directed by: Michael Tollin
- High school friends Pee Wee (Dan Monahan), Tommy (Wyatt Knight), Billy (Mark Herrier) and Mickey (Roger Wilson) want to lose their virginity. But when they're kicked out of a strip club after the owner, Porky (Chuck Mitchell), takes their money, they plot revenge. While they try to get back at him, they deal with other teen troubles, including Pee Wee's worries that his "equipment" is shrinking, their sexually opinionated gym teacher (Kim Cattrall) and a spy hole in the girl's locker room.
- Released: 1981
- Directed by: Bob Clark
- Kimberly (A.J. Cook) has a premonition of a horrible highway accident killing multiple people -- including her and her friends. She blocks the cars behind her on the ramp from joining traffic -- and as a police trooper (Michael Landes) arrives, the accident actually happens. Now, Death is stalking this group of mistaken survivors -- and one by one they are dying as they were supposed to on the highway.
- Released: 2003
- Directed by: David R. Ellis
- In the quirky 1985 comedy Better Off Dead, high schooler Lane Myer (John Cusack) is devastated when his girlfriend Beth (Amanda Wyss) breaks up with him for the suave ski team captain. Disheartened, Lane contemplates ending it all until he crosses paths with the intriguing French exchange student Monique (Diane Franklin). Amidst a backdrop of zany subplots and offbeat characters, Lane learns to ski to regain his self-esteem, win back Beth, or perhaps discover unexpected love. The film, directed by Savage Steve Holland, cleverly satirizes teen angst with a blend of dark humor and whimsical charm.
- Released: 1985
- Directed by: Savage Steve Holland
- A year after killing vengeful hit-and-run victim Ben Wills (Muse Watson), who gutted her friends with an iron hook, college student Julie James (Jennifer Love Hewitt) is still shaken by the experience. When her roommate, Karla (Brandy), wins a vacation for four to the Bahamas, she plans to bring along her boyfriend, Tyrell (Mekhi Phifer), attractive Will (Matthew Settle) and Julie. At the resort, Julie starts receiving threatening notes and realizes Ben is still alive.
- Released: 1998
- Directed by: Danny Cannon
- In the comedy film Don't Tell Mom the Babysitter's Dead, Sue Ellen Crandell (Christina Applegate) is an adolescent left in charge after her elderly babysitter bites the dust. With her mother off on vacation, Sue Ellen must juggle keeping her siblings in check and holding a fashion job to keep them afloat financially. In this chaotic journey, she learns valuable life lessons while trying to maintain the illusion that everything is under control. Despite its comedic premise, the movie subtly explores themes of responsibility and maturity.
- Released: 1991
- Directed by: Stephen Herek
- Not only is Jessica Spencer (Rachel McAdams) the most popular girl in school -- she is also the meanest. But things change for the attractive teen when a freak accident involving a cursed pair of earrings and a chance encounter at a gas station causes her to switch bodies with Clive (Rob Schneider), a sleazy crook. Jessica, in the form of the repulsive Clive, struggles to adjust to this radical alteration and sets out to get her own body back before the upcoming prom.
- Released: 2002
- Directed by: Tom Brady
- Some Kind of Wonderful is a compelling coming-of-age drama, with a touch of romance, set in the backdrop of an American high school. Keith Nelson (Eric Stoltz), a blue-collar teen with artistic dreams, finds himself caught in a love triangle with his best friend Watts (Mary Stuart Masterson) and the popular girl Amanda Jones (Lea Thompson). As Keith navigates the tricky dynamics of adolescent relationships, he learns valuable lessons about friendship, love, and self-discovery. This engaging narrative is helmed by director Howard Deutch and penned by John Hughes, both renowned for their contributions to 80s cinema.
- Released: 1987
- Directed by: Howard Deutch
- Three old friends -- Mike (Omar Epps), Roland (Taye Diggs) and Slim (Richard T. Jones) -- recount memories of their shared childhood in Inglewood, Calif., as they prepare for Roland's wedding to his fiancée, Lisa (LisaRaye). When the groom goes missing without a word, Mike and Slim struggle to find their nervous friend and return him to his impatient bride before the wedding begins. Along the way, they continue to swap stories about lessons learned during their awkward teenage years.
- Released: 1999
- Directed by: Rick Famuyiwa
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Rated T for TeenLooking for movies and TV shows rated T for Teen? Rank these movies about teenagers and high schoolers, enjoyed by people of all ages.
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Rated T for Teen
Looking for movies and TV shows rated T for Teen? Rank these movies about teenagers and high schoolers, enjoyed by people of all ages.
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