🌱 sapling
a place for interesting concepts
20 Marvelous Movies Like Mean Girls in 2024
April 2nd, 2024 - By Steve Chang

Unleash your inner Queen Bee: Sassy suggestions for lovers of Mean Girls

If you're a fan of hilariously biting comedy blended with teen drama, then you might have "Mean Girls" high up on your list. Starring Lindsay Lohan and directed by Mark Waters, this blockbuster teen comedy-drama presents a riveting tale of high school cliques and popularity contests. Written by Tina Fey, who also plays a key role, the movie delves into the world of "The Plastics," the most popular--and feared--group of girls at North Shore High School. A showcase of comedy, the drama of adolescence, and insights into the modern teenage world, "Mean Girls" is considered one of the must-watch high school movies of the 21st century, perfect for a light-hearted yet stimulating movie night. Whenever regaling yourself with similar films that revolve around popularity, cliques, teenage drama, and high school life, "Mean Girls" easily fits into the mix.

But here's the twist, "Mean Girls" isn’t alone in its genre; there's an array of similar films that perfectly cater to those who reveled in the wit and charm of Lindsay Lohan trying to navigate through the treacherous territory of North Shore High School. Films such as "Clueless," an equally engaging teen comedy-drama, starring Alicia Silverstone, and "Heathers," another high school flick which features Winona Ryder and Christian Slater, both carry the essence of high school drama that "Mean Girls" so beautifully encapsulates. And let's not forget about "Easy A" with its sharp and smartly executed script. There are many more movies just waiting to be explored, each lined up to provide a retreat into this enticing genre. And if you’re thirsting for more...


20. Clueless

One excellent choice for a Mean Girls style film is definitely the timeless teen comedy Clueless. Much like Mean Girls, the narrative of Clueless is driven by the complex dynamics of high school hierarchies and teen angst. Clueless, just like Mean Girls, boasts a leading lady navigating through the labyrinth of adolescence and popularity culture, dealing with fashion dilemmas, high school crushes, and friendship quandaries. And like Cady Heron in Mean Girls, Cher Horowitz too goes through a journey of self-discovery in the midst of the high school chaos.

Similar to Mean Girls, Clueless brings humor, witty dialogue, and a fantastic ensemble of characters. What truly ties them both together is the intelligent and comedic look at high school life and the satirical portrayal of teenage social norms and cliques. Both films brilliantly amplify the perspective of teenage girls, their social circles, their peer pressures with an entertaining package filled with memorable lines, relatable characters and lots of laughs. If you're a Mean Girls fan, Clueless is sure to tickle your fancy, providing the perfect blend of comedy, school life satire, and heartwarming coming-of-age story.

19. Heathers

If you're a fan of teen comedies like Mean Girls, you'll definitely adore Heathers. In fact, Heathers, along with movies like Clueless, greatly influenced the making of Mean Girls. Although Heathers is a bit more subversive and dark, it's packed full of the same kind of biting humor, teenage drama and high school cliques that made Mean Girls so engaging. Even though both movies were made in different eras, you can easily spot the narrative and thematic connections, from the edgy reprisal of the "queen bee" character to the exploration of popularity and its costs. Heathers plays like a twisted version of Mean Girls, where the Plastics meet their match, and things take a somewhat dark but comedic turn.

Just like Mean Girls, Heathers centers around a young high school girl who navigates her way through the popular girls' group. But instead of being led astray by Regina George, Winona Ryder's character Veronica Sawyer has to deal with the "Heathers". In both films, the protagonist’s struggle to fit in, yet stand their ground, offers a clever satire on the superficiality and ruthlessness prevalent in high school hierarchies. The social commentary, razor-sharp wit, relatable characters and unforgettable one-liners in Heathers make it a perfect choice if you enjoyed watching Mean Girls. If you've ever wondered what Mean Girls might look like with a little more wickedness and 80s flair, you should definitely give Heathers a shot.

18. Easy A

If you enjoyed the dynamic teen drama and witty comedy in Mean Girls, then you'll love Easy A. It shares the same high school setting and satirical humor, but adds its unique spin to the teenage experience. Both films deftly explore the turbulent world of high school popularity and the often harsh consequences of rumors. They weave an enthralling narrative around these themes, using humor and wit to mask the complex adolescents' world. The clever dialogues, relatable characters, and spot-on social commentary will remind you of the connection you felt with Mean Girls.

Like Mean Girls, Easy A applies a modern take to an age-old literary work, making it insightful as well as entertaining. The lead characters in both films, Emma Stone as Olive in Easy A and Lindsay Lohan as Cady in Mean Girls, are likable protagonists whose transformation throughout the narrative unfolds in engaging, unexpected ways. Each film showcases the clever ways these characters navigated high school's messy politics. Both movies offer a humorous yet profound study of teenage life, making them perfect if you're looking for intelligent, delightful, yet thoughtful movies like Mean Girls.

17. The DUFF

One thing that makes The DUFF so similar to Mean Girls is the relatable themes it explores. Both movies delve into the ups and downs of navigating high school's social hierarchy. Just like Mean Girls, The DUFF uses wit, humor, and a bit of sarcasm to tackle timely topics such as peer pressure, body shaming and bullying. The dynamic characters in The DUFF are as laugh-out-loud funny as the ones in Mean Girls, ensuring that you’ll never have a dull moment watching the movie. Plus, if you loved the transformation of Lindsay Lohan’s character in Mean Girls, wait till you witness Mae Whitman's in The DUFF.

Another charming similarity between The DUFF and Mean Girls is the blend of comedy and drama. Both movies masterfully balance these two genres, creating a perfect storm of laughter and emotion that keeps you hooked from start to finish. They have that special touch of high school drama, sprinkled with brilliantly timed comedic relief. If you’re looking for another flick that’ll make you gasp, laugh, and maybe even shed a tear or two, The DUFF is your perfect choice. Also, a notable fact is the empowering message both of these films carry, where the underdog prevails and the mean girls are put in their place, creating those motivational moments you would love to experience again!

16. Legally Blonde

Those who have already enjoyed the witty and wild nature of Mean Girls will definitely appreciate the humorous and empowering journey of Legally Blonde. Both movies touch on similar themes such as female power, societal expectations, peer pressure and, most prominently, high school politics translating into the real world. Legally Blonde, like Mean Girls, offers a refreshingly cheeky and intelligent take on popular girl culture. It revolves around Elle, played by Reese Witherspoon, who is considered just a 'pretty, dumb blonde' but she proves everyone wrong by excelling in Harvard Law School to win back her ex-boyfriend, just like how Cady Heron breaks up the Plastics and excels at school.

Legally Blonde and Mean Girls both flaunt strong female lead characters navigating through situations that demand them to change their ways, only to come out stronger by being true to themselves. The brilliant use of humor, sarcasm, and satire in these movies makes them both enjoyable and insightful. They score high on the laugh quotient but beyond the giggles, they leave you with food for thought about stereotypes, friendships and inner strength. If you loved watching Rachel McAdams as Regina George, the queen bee of high school, then Reese Witherspoon as Elle Woods, the blonde sorority girl turned successful lawyer, would certainly be a delightful watch for you.

15. 10 Things I Hate About You

If you loved the high school drama and hilarious comedy that Mean Girls offers, then 10 Things I Hate About You is going to be your next top pick. Think of it as Mean Girls meets The Taming of the Shrew. It's another film set in a high school, where we see diverse characters each with their own unique idiosyncrasies, navigating the complex world of teen social hierarchies and romance. You'll experience all kinds of familiar high school scenes from lunchroom politics to the drama of dating, and there's also a sprinkle of that high school rebellion that we see in Cady Heron from Mean Girls.

10 Things I Hate About You matches the wit and comedic timing of Mean Girls, weaving together humor and heart. You will enjoy the rapid-fire dialogue and dynamic performances from a young Heath Ledger and Julia Stiles, which remind us of the performances from Lindsay Lohan and Rachel McAdams in Mean Girls. In both films, we see strong, independent female characters who are taking control of their high school experiences and not bending to the social expectations that others have set for them. If you're looking for another hilarious and heartwarming high school drama that explores friendship, individuality and even romance, all mixed with a healthy dose of comedy, 10 Things I Hate About You won't disappoint you.

14. Pitch Perfect

If you're after the same sharp wit, high school drama, and unforgettable one-liners that Mean Girls delivered in spades, you'll absolutely love Pitch Perfect. It's like Mean Girls but with a capella - think Cliques, competition, and some seriously catchy music. You'll get the same level of hilarity, mixed with an emotional depth that's sure to keep you watching. Pitch Perfect has a stellar cast, much like Mean Girls, featuring the likes of Anna Kendrick and Rebel Wilson. The character interactions and chemical balance in the movie are very reminiscent of Cady Heron and Regina George's squad in Mean Girls.

Pitch Perfect's storyline follows Beca, a freshman at Barden University, who reluctantly joins an all-girls a capella group, much like Cady Heron joining the Plastics. Right from the get-go, you can expect a rich tapestry of conflicts, misunderstandings, and of course, redemption - which is reminiscent of how things went down in North Shore High School. As for the humor, Pitch Perfect never misses a beat. It's chock-full of laugh-out-loud moments that absolutely mirror the sassy humor and hilarious scenarios of Mean Girls. If you're looking for a movie that captures the same essence of quick humor, relatable situations, and memorable characters, then the Bellas from Pitch Perfect will not disappoint.

13. John Tucker Must Die

If you loved Mean Girls for its satirical take on high-school cliques and smartly woven comedic moments, John Tucker Must Die is definitely next on your list. Both films provide an enlightening and absolutely entertaining overview on teenage love life, rivalry, friendships, and the high school social stratum. Just like Mean Girls, John Tucker Must Die uses a fun but strategic approach to put across teenage issues that might be otherwise ignored. The film dips into the pool of high-school drama, revenge plots, and the timeless clique culture just like Mean Girls, making it an exciting viewing option.

Now, if you were a fan of the engaging characters in Mean Girls, John Tucker Must Die has this same magnetic charm. In both films, the female protagonists join forces to take down the school's most popular and seemingly untouchable kids, ‘The Plastics’ in Mean Girls and ‘John Tucker’ in the latter. Also, both movies have a winning juxtaposition of comedy and drama, mingling light-hearted moments with cathartic plots that will make you laugh, but also touch your heart. If Mean Girls was just the right dose of teen-flick for you, John Tucker Must Die will hit the same sweet spot, while elegantly sidestepping the clichés. Welcome back to high school; here's your ticket to a fun-filled revenge ride.

12. Bring It On

If you loved Mean Girls, then you're clearly a fan of teen comedies that combine drama, humour, and a touch of romance, with the intricate social politics of high school. You're in luck, Bring It On is just such a flick. Much like Mean Girls, with its witty dialogue, nuanced performances, and sharp social commentary, Bring It On offers viewers a similar flavour, but spices the blend with competitive cheerleading, making it a fresh and addictive experience.

Bring It On, like Mean Girls, focuses on the everyday drama of teenagers while providing insightful commentary on themes such as peer pressure, competition and integrity. Just as you watched Cady Heron climb and tumble through the social hierarchy of high school in Mean Girls, Bring It On features protagonists who must navigate the trials of leadership, friendship, and rivalry in the high-stakes world of cheerleading. The comedy arises from memorable one-liners, hilarious situations, and strong character dynamics, just as in Mean Girls. So, if you're in the mood for some quirky teenage wisdom with a side of high-energy cheer routines, Bring It On should be next on your movie marathon list.

11. She's The Man

If you're a fan of Mean Girls, then She's The Man is a perfect choice packed with a similar blend of youthful energy, sharp wit, and smart comedy. The plot follows the life of teenager Viola, who, much like Cady in Mean Girls, is thrust into a new school environment under the guise of her twin brother. She navigates her way through high school clinics of contemporary social issues such as gender roles and societal expectations, much like how Mean Girls satirically sheds light on high school cliques and popularity politics. This teen movie perfectly combines hilarious comedy with a touch of romance and a dose of social commentary, making it an excellent addition to your movie queue.

It's also worth noting that both movies are still celebrated in pop culture today. She's The Man, much like Mean Girls, became a cult classic due to its highly relatable characters, hilarious one-liners, and unforgettable performances. Especially, Amanda Bynes' portrayal in She's The Man is as iconic as Lindsay Lohan's performance in Mean Girls. Besides, high school drama, relatable themes, empowering storylines, the light-hearted feel-good aspect of both movies is sure to keep you hooked. So, if you're looking for more teen movies that reflect the same level of stylish, smart, and relatable comedy, She's The Man is the perfect movie for you.

10. Juno

Have you ever considered Juno? Juno combines the same high school vibe you loved in Mean Girls while incorporating a lot of heart, humor, and even a bit of drama. The correlation between Juno and Mean Girls may not seem apparent initially, but they share quite a few striking characteristics. In both these teen comedies, you will find sharp, clever dialogues and unique protagonists that stay with you long after the end credits roll. The snappy, clever dialogue of protagonists Cady Heron and Juno MacGuff is just as entertaining and memorable. And though the tone of Juno may seem more serious due to its storyline about teenage pregnancy, it has a similar message about growing up and navigating the challenges of adolescence, just like Mean Girls.

In fact, just like Mean Girls, Juno also carefully navigates the social hierarchies of high school. Although Juno doesn't have "The Plastics," its memorable characters create their own social dynamics in quirky and amusing ways. Both films cleverly explore the trials and tribulations of growing up, and bring out the essence of high school life with a twist of humor, making them popular choice among teen films. So, if you're a fan of Tina Fey's sharp satire in Mean Girls, you're sure to appreciate Diablo Cody's quick wit in Juno. In short, Juno offers a fresh take on teen comedies while still maintaining some of the central themes that made Mean Girls a hit. It's definitely worth giving a watch if you're looking for a film like Mean Girls but with a little more depth and less pink on Wednesdays.

9. The Princess Diaries

If you loved the drama, humor, and relatable high school scenarios in Mean Girls, then you're going to enjoy The Princess Diaries. Both teen movies revolve around an unconventional protagonist who undergoes a significant transformation, from an unknown or uncool outsider to an enviable figure. In Mean Girls, Cady Heron transitions from the new girl in school to the popular mean girl, while in The Princess Diaries, Mia Thermopolis discovers she's a princess and moves from being an overlooked high school student to a well-groomed royalty. This pivotal transformation phase, coupled with the rollercoaster of high school life, ties these two films together.

The Princess Diaries, like Mean Girls, also encapsulates the dramatic shift of social dynamics as the plot unravels. Both movies feature loveable characters, with a strong and compelling female lead navigating the high school social sphere, whether it's ruling the Plastics in Mean Girls or ruling a kingdom in The Princess Diaries. Additionally, the iconic mentor-student relationship is present in both movies, with Regina George teaching Cady the "rules" in Mean Girls and Queen Clarisse mentoring her granddaughter Mia on being a princess in The Princess Diaries. So, if you're keen on a movie that combines comedy, drama, memorable quotes, and a touch of romance, The Princess Diaries should be next on your movie marathon list!

8. The Breakfast Club

If you're a fan of Mean Girls and are on the hunt for similar movies, you might want to consider The Breakfast Club. Both films are compelling takes on American high school culture with a heavy focus on adolescent relationships and the societal constraints of cliques and popularity. Directed and written by John Hughes, The Breakfast Club follows the lives of five high school students from different cliques, superbly mirroring the diverse and contrasting personalities presented in Mean Girls. The Breakfast Club also offers that same delightful dose of sharp-witted humor, sarcasm, and a memorable script, much like you appreciated in Mean Girls.

Identical to how Mean Girls brilliantly explores the social stratifications in high school, The Breakfast Club offers an insightful and authentic look into the pressures and typical stereotypes of teenage life. It delves deeper into personal challenges every teenager faces, exploring themes of identity, acceptance, and self-growth. If the character transformations and overcoming prejudices in Mean Girls left you in awe, you'd be equally thrilled by the similar narrative within The Breakfast Club. And just like the antics and power dynamics of the Plastics in Mean Girls, the dynamics among the Breakfast Club members are equally engaging and riveting. Overall, if you are seeking movies similar to Mean Girls, The Breakfast Club is a must-see cinematic gem that strikes the perfect balance between humor and heart.

7. Freaky Friday

If you loved the dynamics of teenage drama and life lessons in Mean Girls, then Freaky Friday is definitely going to be your next favorite! Just like Mean Girls, Freaky Friday challenges typical clichés and stereotypes about teenage life and presents a mix of comedy, drama, and transformation. The teen protagonist, similar to Cady Heron in Mean Girls, goes through an unexpected life-changing experience that shifts her perspective and teaches her valuable lessons, which the viewers can relate to and appreciate.

Like Mean Girls, Freaky Friday offers an entertaining and engaging narrative that strongly highlights the theme of self-discovery. It packs in humor and emotions brilliantly and gives an interesting twist to the mother-daughter relationship, almost parallel to how Mean Girls showcased a unique aspect of high school cliques and friendships. You can expect more laugh-out-loud moments, combined with heartwarming scenes and significant life truths. It's the perfect choice for you if you're looking for movies with strong female leads, humorous life lessons, and a vibrant journey of self-discovery - just like Mean Girls.

6. A Cinderella Story

If you're a fan of Mean Girls' high school drama, witty dialogues, and unforgettable characters, consider diving into A Cinderella Story. Just like Mean Girls, A Cinderella Story revolves around the high school dynamics, where students navigate their teenage life, from bullying to first love. This film features a captivating transformation scene that resembles Cady Heron's makeover by the Plastics – Regina George, Gretchen Wieners, and Karen Smith. Here, Hilary Duff, playing the modern-day Cinderella, enthralls viewers with her transformation from a simple diner employee to a radiant princess, matching the satisfaction you get watching Cady turn into one of the coolest girls in school.

Like Mean Girls, A Cinderella Story uses humor and wit to explore the concept of popularity and identity in high school. It subtly critiques the social class system, reminiscent of the cliques navigating the high school hierarchy in Mean Girls. In addition, this film balances touching moments with light-hearted banter, giving you a similar cinematic experience where you laugh one minute and get emotional the next – just like watching Cady's journey through the high school social ladder. Moreover, the empowering message of staying true to oneself echoes the self-realization Cady goes through in Mean Girls, making A Cinderella Story a great addition to your movie playlist.

5. Never Been Kissed

Never Been Kissed, just like Mean Girls, is a charming feel-good movie that delves into the highs and lows of high school life and fitting in. Both movies showcase unique perspectives on teenage life, loaded with humor, dramatic twists, romance, and the ever-present struggle to find one's place in the crowd. The movies share a comedic approach to the pressures and heartaches of adolescence, making them both highly relatable and entertaining. If you enjoyed the high school drama and comedy in Mean Girls, Never Been Kissed will surely tickle your fancy.

The protagonists in both films, despite their different ages, take on the challenge of blending into a high school setting to achieve specific goals. In Never Been Kissed, it's the undercover journalist played by Drew Barrymore, trying to expose the truth about high school kids, much like Cady in Mean Girls navigating a new environment. The fascinating journey the characters embark on leads to unexpected friendships, love interests, and personal growth, a shared narrative element you'll love. Moreover, like in Mean Girls, Never Been Kissed uses humor and satire to challenge stereotypes and give substance to characters typically deemed shallow in similar films. So, if you're still reminiscing about the brainy liners and clever comedic timing in Mean Girls, you're sure to find Never Been Kissed just as delightful and engaging!

4. Confessions of a Teenage Drama Queen

If you found Mean Girls to be an enjoyable watch, then Confessions of a Teenage Drama Queen is certainly a movie you'd want to add to your watchlist. Both films delve into the dramatic world of American high school life, with a spotlight on the ups and downs of teenage friendships, rivalries, and the inevitable identity crises. Just like Cady Heron in Mean Girls, the protagonist of Confessions of a Teenage Drama Queen, Lola, played by Lindsay Lohan, ventures into a new school, only to find herself in a competitive atmosphere filled with teenage hierarchies that she must navigate.

Confessions of a Teenage Drama Queen shares Mean Girls' humorous andsatirical perspectives on high school politics, while showcasing a bevy of unforgettable characters. These characters, in true Mean Girls style, are not cookie-cutter stereotypes but are very vibrant, quirky, and multi-dimensional, easily captivating the audience's attention. The sharp, witty dialogue in both films keeps viewers entertained, while also leading to fresh insights into teenage life. If you loved the writing and character development in Mean Girls, you will definitely appreciate the storytelling prowess of Confessions of a Teenage Drama Queen. And just like Mean Girls, this film is punctuated with memorable scenes, amusing antics, and a heartwarming storyline, making it a must-watch for any fan of teen comedies.

3. The House Bunny

If you're a fan of Mean Girls, you'll definitely enjoy The House Bunny. Both have the similar concept of an outsider entering a new group and stirring up drama, but with a unique and humorous twist. The House Bunny takes a page from Mean Girls book with its hysterical take on the world of sororities and the pressure of fitting in. Just like Cady in Mean Girls, Shelley, the lead character in The House Bunny, finds herself navigating a world she's utterly unfamiliar with. Instead of the wild African savannah, it's the glam world of Playboy; a switch that results to entertaining situational comedy.

Further, The House Bunny also shares Mean Girls' knack for witty dialogue and sharp observations of youthful social dynamics. They are both about female empowerment and unity but also cleverly showcase the politics of popularity within their respective settings — suburban high school and college sorority. In the end, the makeover theme is prevalent in both movies, offering a fresh and insightful perspective on beauty standards and self-identity. Plus, the performances of Emma Stone and Anna Faris as the underdogs who transform not just their looks, but the attitudes of those around them, are both as compelling as Lindsay Lohan's role in Mean Girls. So, if you're looking for a movie with a mix of humor, drama, and a healthy dose of life lessons, The House Bunny has got you covered.

2. Sydney White

If you enjoyed the comedic drama and high school politics in Mean Girls, you'll definitely want to give Sydney White a spin. Just like Mean Girls, Sydney White delves into the fascinating and sometimes rough world of popularity contests and clique cultures, packing plenty of laughter and dramatic moments into its storyline. Played by the charming Amanda Bynes, Sydney White offers a refreshing twist on the age-old tale of Snow White, set in a modern university rather than in a fairy forest.

Both movies use humor and satire to highlight the superficiality of social cliques and emphasize the importance of being true to oneself. While Mean Girls brings the high school hierarchy to light, Sydney White takes it to the next level with the representation of Greek life in American universities. You'll find memorable characters, clever dialogue, and relatable situations that make both movies worth watching. So, if you loved the combination of humor, teen drama, and social commentary in Mean Girls, Sydney White is definitely a must-watch for you.

1. Sixteen Candles

If you love Mean Girls, then you're bound to find Sixteen Catters intriguing. Both films share a common setting – the intricate, ever unpredictable, and sometimes brutal world of high school. Much like Mean Girls, Sixteen Candles also magnifies the everyday drama and relationships in high school. In both films, we see strong and relatable female leads navigating and adapting to the complex social sphere. Mean Girls offers us Cady Heron, while Sixteen Candles gives us Samantha Baker, both trying to figure out their place in the school's social hierarchy.

Humor is a significant aspect in both Sixteen Candles and Mean Girls, and you'll be having plenty of laughs with both of these iconic teen comedies. You will find yourself connecting with the characters and their relatable struggles, making them perfect movies for a laidback movie night. If you appreciate the quirky characters and unforgettable lines in Mean Girls, you will enjoy the equally memorable cast and dialogue in Sixteen Candles. So, enjoy Sam’s unforgettable 16th birthday and remember no matter how crazy life gets, there is always a silver lining even in high school.

You've reached the end! Check out the home page for more informative articles on your favorite games.