The 100+ Best Movies About High School

All Genre Movies Lists
Updated May 9, 2024 637.0K views 116 items
Ranked By
2.7K votes
240 voters
1 reranks

High school movies are the greatest examples of the angst of the teenage experience plus the turmoil of virgin sexual frustrations. This high school movies list includes really good high school films that capture all the drama and comedy of those teen years. Most of these also fall under the teen chick flicks category but not all of them. You'll find some high school horror movies on the list as well as coming of age dramas and comedies. But which one deserves to be at the top of the list? You can help decide by voting your favorites to the top.

School movies set in high schools account for some of the best performances by adults playing teens ever captured on the big screen. From Danny and Rizzo in Grease to pretty much all the members of The Breakfast Club, there are myriad movies about high school that you can have a peek at if you want to relive your high school experience or just think about how awful other people's adolescences were. Be sure to vote up your favorites and vote down any that you think other fans should skip.

  • The Breakfast Club
    1

    The Breakfast Club

    Emilio Estevez, Molly Ringwald, Judd Nelson
    143 votes
    In the film The Breakfast Club, five high school students, each representing a different stereotype, meet in detention. There's the brainy Brian Johnson (Anthony Michael Hall), the athletic Andrew Clark (Emilio Estevez), the rebel John Bender (Judd Nelson), the princess Claire Standish (Molly Ringwald), and the outcast Allison Reynolds (Ally Sheedy). As they spend a Saturday together under supervision of the strict assistant principal Richard Vernon (Paul Gleason), they gradually open up to one another, revealing their deeper selves beneath their public personas. This 1985 coming-of-age comedy-drama directed by John Hughes explores themes of identity, peer pressure, and adolescence within its 97-minute runtime. To this day, it remains a classic in teen cinema.
    More The Breakfast ClubRight Arrow
  • Sixteen Candles
    2

    Sixteen Candles

    Molly Ringwald, Anthony Michael Hall, Michael Schoeffling
    79 votes
    Sixteen Candles is a classic 1984 coming-of-age comedy directed by John Hughes. The film centers around the character of Samantha Baker, (Molly Ringwald), who's celebrating her 16th birthday but feels ignored by her family who are preoccupied with her sister's wedding. Jake Ryan (Michael Schoeffling), the high school heartthrob, is the object of Samantha's affection while she is relentlessly pursued by a nerdy freshman named Ted, (Anthony Michael Hall). As the day unfolds, hilarious and heartfelt moments ensue, culminating in a memorable birthday that Samantha didn't expect. This film marks an important milestone in teenage films for its honest depiction of adolescent life.
    More Sixteen CandlesRight Arrow
  • Ferris Bueller's Day Off
    3

    Ferris Bueller's Day Off

    Matthew Broderick, Alan Ruck, Mia Sara
    120 votes
    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.
    More Ferris Bueller's Day OffRight Arrow
  • Back to the Future
    4

    Back to the Future

    Michael J. Fox, Christopher Lloyd, Crispin Glover
    102 votes
    In the 1985 adventure-comedy Back to the Future, high school student Marty McFly (Michael J. Fox) is catapulted back to the 1950's in a time-traveling DeLorean car invented by his eccentric scientist friend, Dr. Emmett Brown (Christopher Lloyd). Stranded in the past, Marty inadvertently interferes with his parents' meeting, jeopardizing his own existence. Now, he must ensure they fall in love again to secure his future. This Robert Zemeckis-directed film won an Academy Award for Best Sound Effects Editing and is known for its unique blend of science fiction and humor.
    More Back to the FutureRight Arrow
  • Mean Girls
    5

    Mean Girls

    Lindsay Lohan, Rachel McAdams, Tina Fey
    124 votes
    In the teen comedy Mean Girls, Cady Heron (Lindsay Lohan) is a naive newcomer to public school, having been homeschooled in Africa. She finds herself in the whirlwind of high school politics and cliques, especially when she crosses paths with Regina George (Rachel McAdams), the queen bee of North Shore High School's most popular clique, The Plastics. As Cady navigates this new terrain, she becomes entangled in The Plastics' manipulative games. Tina Fey, who also wrote the screenplay, stars as Ms. Norbury, a teacher who provides guidance for Cady. Mean Girls was nominated for multiple awards and won a Teen Choice Award for Choice Movie: Comedy.
    More Mean GirlsRight Arrow
  • Grease
    6

    Grease

    John Travolta, Olivia Newton-John, Stockard Channing
    83 votes
    In the 1978 musical Grease, Danny Zuko (John Travolta) is a high school heartthrob who finds his world upended when sweet Sandy Olsson (Olivia Newton-John), a girl he met over summer vacation, enrolls at Rydell High. The film navigates the complexities of teenage romance and peer pressure in an era characterized by rock 'n' roll and fast cars. With memorable tunes and energetic dance sequences, the movie went on to become a beloved classic, earning it five Golden Globe nominations. Its vibrant portrayal of 1950s Americana remains iconic even today.
    More GreaseRight Arrow
  • Clueless
    7

    Clueless

    Alicia Silverstone, Stacey Dash, Brittany Murphy
    116 votes
    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.
  • Fast Times at Ridgemont High
    8

    Fast Times at Ridgemont High

    Sean Penn, Jennifer Jason Leigh, Judge Reinhold
    89 votes
    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.
    More Fast Times at Ridgemont HighRight Arrow
  • 10 Things I Hate About You
    9

    10 Things I Hate About You

    Heath Ledger, Julia Stiles, Joseph Gordon-Levitt
    115 votes
    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.
    More 10 Things I Hate About YouRight Arrow
  • Dead Poets Society
    10

    Dead Poets Society

    Robin Williams, Robert Sean Leonard, Ethan Hawke
    74 votes
    In the captivating drama, Dead Poets Society, English teacher John Keating (Robin Williams) introduces his students at the conservative Welton Academy to the world of poetry. His unconventional teaching methods, centered around the motto Carpe Diem - seize the day, inspire his pupils to challenge the status quo and explore their individual identities. The narrative unfolds as Neil Perry (Robert Sean Leonard), an aspiring actor, grapples with his authoritarian father's expectations. This 1989 Peter Weir-directed film was nominated for four Academy Awards, winning Best Original Screenplay.
    More Dead Poets SocietyRight Arrow
  • Pretty in Pink
    11

    Pretty in Pink

    Molly Ringwald, Jon Cryer, Andrew McCarthy
    73 votes
    In Pretty in Pink, a classic '80s teen drama, high school senior Andie Walsh (Molly Ringwald) navigates the social divide between wealth and poverty. Andie, from a modest background, finds herself torn between her childhood friend Duckie Dale (Jon Cryer), who harbors unrequited feelings for her, and affluent Blane McDonough (Andrew McCarthy). As prom night approaches, Andie must wrestle with the class differences that threaten to keep her and Blane apart while also dealing with Duckie's romantic advances. A poignant exploration of love and socio-economic disparity, this film remains a beloved staple of its genre.
    More Pretty in PinkRight Arrow
  • Dazed and Confused
    12

    Dazed and Confused

    Jason London, Wiley Wiggins, Sasha Jenson
    89 votes
    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.
    More Dazed and ConfusedRight Arrow
  • Fame
    13

    Fame

    Irene Cara, Eddie Barth, Lee Curreri
    17 votes
    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.
    More FameRight Arrow
  • American Pie
    14

    American Pie

    Jason Biggs, Shannon Elizabeth, Alyson Hannigan
    92 votes
    In American Pie, a raucous teen comedy, five high school friends - Jim (Jason Biggs), Oz (Chris Klein), Kevin (Thomas Ian Nicholas), Finch (Eddie Kaye Thomas), and Stifler (Seann William Scott) - make a pact to lose their virginity by prom night. The film, peppered with iconic scenes and unforgettable one-liners, explores the trials and tribulations of adolescence in a humorous yet honest way. As graduation looms, the boys navigate relationships, peer pressure, and their own insecurities. Their misadventures lead to hilarious situations that have since become staples of the genre. Though not an award winner, its impact on pop culture is undeniable.
    More American PieRight Arrow
  • Heathers
    15

    Heathers

    Winona Ryder, Christian Slater, Shannen Doherty
    65 votes
    In the dark comedy Heathers, high school senior Veronica Sawyer (Winona Ryder) finds herself entangled in an unusual relationship with the mysterious new kid, J.D. (Christian Slater). Amidst the social pressures of Westerburg High School, dominated by a clique of girls all named Heather, Veronica and J.D. embark on a rebellious journey against the popular crowd. Their actions quickly spiral into a series of disturbing events that blur the line between teenage rebellion and criminal activity. This 1988 cult classic explores themes of popularity, power, and the chilling lengths some will go to leave their mark on society.
    More HeathersRight Arrow
  • Freaky Friday
    16

    Freaky Friday

    Jamie Lee Curtis, Lindsay Lohan, Mark Harmon
    51 votes
    In the comedic family film, Freaky Friday, an uncanny event propels a mother-daughter duo, Tess (Jamie Lee Curtis) and Anna (Lindsay Lohan), into a whirlwind of swapped lives. A simple wish on a peculiar fortune cookie triggers the switch, compelling them to navigate each other's worlds with newfound perspectives. As Tess grapples with high school drama and Anna juggles adult responsibilities, they strive to reverse their circumstances. Amidst uproarious moments and chaos, this enchanting tale explores familial bonds and understanding in an extraordinary way.
    More Freaky FridayRight Arrow
  • Bring It On
    17

    Bring It On

    Kirsten Dunst, Eliza Dushku, Jesse Bradford
    71 votes
    Bring It On, a comedy-drama, is driven by the fiery spirit of high school cheerleading. Torrance Shipman (Kirsten Dunst), captain of the cheerleading squad at Rancho Carne High School, discovers her team's routines were stolen from the East Compton Clovers, led by Isis (Gabrielle Union). The ensuing rivalry between the squads forms the crux of the narrative. Directed with verve by Peyton Reed, this film explores themes of integrity, competition, and friendship. Notably, Bring It On bagged nominations for multiple Teen Choice Awards, underscoring its appeal to young audiences.
    More Bring It OnRight Arrow
  • Never Been Kissed
    18

    Never Been Kissed

    Drew Barrymore, David Arquette, Michael Vartan
    23 votes
    In the heartfelt romantic comedy, Never Been Kissed, Josie Geller (Drew Barrymore) is a Chicago Sun-Times copy editor with dreams bigger than her cubicle. With winning enthusiasm, she's assigned to go undercover at a high school, reliving her own torturous teen years while attempting to pen an exposé on contemporary adolescence. Along the way, she crosses paths with English teacher Sam Coulson (Michael Vartan), leading to unexpected romantic sparks. As Josie grapples with her assignment and newfound feelings, a story of self-discovery and first love unfolds. With a dash of humor and a sprinkle of charm, this film navigates the often choppy waters of high school life and love.
    More Never Been KissedRight Arrow
  • Can't Buy Me Love
    19

    Can't Buy Me Love

    Patrick Dempsey, Amanda Peterson, Courtney Gains
    31 votes
    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.
    More Can't Buy Me LoveRight Arrow
  • Adventures in Babysitting
    20

    Adventures in Babysitting

    Elisabeth Shue, Maia Brewton, Keith Coogan
    45 votes
    In the 1987 comedy, Adventures in Babysitting, Chris Parker (Elisabeth Shue) takes on an unexpected journey. When her boyfriend cancels their date, she is left babysitting the Anderson kids, Brad (Keith Coogan) and Sara (Maia Brewton). A simple night turns into a wild adventure when Chris's friend Brenda (Penelope Ann Miller) calls for help from downtown Chicago. Embarking on a rescue mission, the group encounters car thieves, blues musicians, and mobsters, transforming an ordinary evening into an unforgettable escapade. The movie remains a cult classic with its blend of humor and high-stakes hijinks.
    More Adventures in BabysittingRight Arrow
  • American Graffiti
    21

    American Graffiti

    Richard Dreyfuss, Ron Howard, Paul Le Mat
    41 votes
    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.
    More American GraffitiRight Arrow
  • Bill and Ted's Excellent Adventure
    22

    Bill and Ted's Excellent Adventure

    Keanu Reeves, Alex Winter, George Carlin
    69 votes
    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.
    More Bill & Ted's Excellent AdventureRight Arrow
  • The Perks of Being a Wallflower
    23

    The Perks of Being a Wallflower

    Logan Lerman, Emma Watson, Ezra Miller
    50 votes
    In The Perks of Being a Wallflower, Charlie (Logan Lerman), an introverted high-school freshman, navigates through the trials and tribulations of adolescence. His world opens up when he befriends two seniors, Sam (Emma Watson) and Patrick (Ezra Miller). As they introduce him to the real world beyond textbooks and tests, Charlie grapples with first love and deep-seated secrets. A coming-of-age drama, this movie shines a spotlight on the joys and heartbreaks of growing up. Garnering critical acclaim, it won the Independent Spirit Award for Best First Feature.
    More The Perks of Being a WallflowerRight Arrow
  • Porky's
    24

    Porky's

    Dan Monahan, Chuck Mitchell, Alex Karras
    21 votes
    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.
    More Porky'sRight Arrow
  • Weird Science
    25

    Weird Science

    Kelly LeBrock, Anthony Michael Hall, Ilan Mitchell-Smith
    49 votes
    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.
    More Weird ScienceRight Arrow
  • Napoleon Dynamite
    26

    Napoleon Dynamite

    Jon Heder, Jon Gries, Aaron Ruell
    62 votes
    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.
    More Napoleon DynamiteRight Arrow
  • The Girl Next Door
    27

    The Girl Next Door

    Emile Hirsch, Elisha Cuthbert, Timothy Olyphant
    26 votes
    Matthew Kidman (Emile Hirsch), a high school senior with political ambitions, finds his world turned upside down when Danielle (Elisha Cuthbert), a former adult film star, moves in next door. The movie The Girl Next Door is an engaging blend of romance, comedy, and drama that sees Matthew navigating through the complications of love, friendship, and coming-of-age. As Matthew's life becomes intertwined with Danielle's mysterious past, he must confront societal norms and personal fears. The narrative unfolds in unexpected ways, challenging our perceptions of conformity and rebellion. This film offers a fresh take on adolescent exploration and the unpredictable journey of self-discovery.
    More The Girl Next DoorRight Arrow
  • Scream
    28

    Scream

    Neve Campbell, David Arquette, Courteney Cox
    65 votes
    Scream, a quintessential horror film, masterfully combines suspense and dark humor. Sidney Prescott (Neve Campbell) is a high school student in the fictional town of Woodsboro, California. Her life takes a horrifying turn when she becomes the target of a mysterious killer known as Ghostface (Roger Jackson), who is inspired by classic horror movies. As the body count rises, Sidney and her friends must unmask the killer before it's too late. Directed by Wes Craven and written by Kevin Williamson, Scream cleverly subverts genre conventions while offering thrilling scares, making it a modern classic in horror cinema.
    More ScreamRight Arrow
  • Goonies
    29

    Goonies

    Sean Astin, Josh Brolin, Jeff Cohen
    43 votes
    In the heart of Astoria, Oregon, a band of misfit kids known as The Goonies embark on a wild adventure after finding an old pirate map in Mikey's (Sean Astin) attic. Together with his brother Brand (Josh Brolin), and friends Chunk (Jeff Cohen), Mouth (Corey Feldman), Data (Ke Huy Quan), Andy (Kerri Green) and Stef (Martha Plimpton), they set out to unearth the long-lost fortune of infamous pirate One-Eyed Willy. Chased by the nefarious Fratelli family, their journey is packed with booby traps, puzzles and swashbuckling danger. Directed by Richard Donner and produced by Steven Spielberg, The Goonies is a timeless adventure-comedy that celebrates friendship and courage.
    More The GooniesRight Arrow
  • I Know What You Did Last Summer
    30

    I Know What You Did Last Summer

    Jennifer Love Hewitt, Sarah Michelle Gellar, Ryan Phillippe
    46 votes
    In I Know What You Did Last Summer, four friends - Julie James (Jennifer Love Hewitt), Ray Bronson (Freddie Prinze Jr.), Helen Shivers (Sarah Michelle Gellar) and Barry Cox (Ryan Phillippe) - grapple with a horrifying secret. After a celebratory night turns tragic, they swear to bury the truth, only for it to resurface in the form of an ominous message one year later. This suspenseful thriller, laden with mystery and terror, follows their desperate attempts to outsmart an unseen stalker. The group's unity is tested as they are plunged into a deadly game of cat-and-mouse, where survival hinges on unearthing hidden truths and confronting their darkest fears.
    More I Know What You Did Last SummerRight Arrow