The Best Movies About Prep School
- 1Robin Williams, Robert Sean Leonard, Ethan Hawke
Dead Poets Society, an inspiring and influential film, follows the story of an English teacher, John Keating, portrayed by the legendary Robin Williams, who encourages his students to seize the day at the conservative Welton Academy. Breathing new life into traditional methods, Keating challenges the norms and ignites a passion for poetry amongst his pupils, eventually forming the infamous secret society. This Academy Award-winning masterpiece delves deep into the trials and tribulations of self-expression and the need to challenge old ideas within the rigid walls of a prestigious boarding school.
More Dead Poets Society
- #13 of 113 onThe 100+ Best Movies About High School
- #71 of 399 onThe Best Movies Of The 1980s, Ranked
- #327 of 772 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- 2Brendan Fraser, Matt Damon, Chris O'Donnell
School Ties exemplifies the intensity of life at an elite 1950s boarding school, welcoming David Greene, played by the charismatic Brendan Fraser, a working-class Jewish teen awarded a football scholarship. As Greene encounters prejudice and betrayal, his journey unearths the barriers built by social and religious stigmas masked behind the façade of comradery. This critically acclaimed film highlights the courage it takes to stand alone, fight bigotry, and defy expectations in a pressure-cooker environment.
More School Ties- #35 of 75 onThe Best Football Movies Of All Time
- #17 of 68 onThe Best High School Sports Movies
- #8 of 43 on30+ Very Preppy Movies with the Preppiest Characters
- 3Emma Roberts, Natasha Richardson, Shirley Henderson
Wild Child, a rambunctious romp embracing British boarding school traditions, revolves around Malibu socialite, Poppy Moore, played by Emma Roberts, as she is shipped off to the esteemed Abbey Mount School. Through her comical trials of discipline, competitiveness, and British cultural differences, Poppy blossoms from a rebellious teen into a composed and caring individual. The unabashed hilarity and lessons of growth in this coming-of-age film leave lasting impressions on viewers.
More Wild Child- #598 of 675 onThe Best Movies Roger Ebert Gave Four Stars
- #22 of 168 onThe 150+ Best Teen Romance Movies, Ranked
- #191 of 469 onThe 400+ Best Chick Flicks Ever
- 4Thomas Mann, Lucy Fry, Logan Huffman
The Preppie Connection, a riveting drama inspired by true events, follows Toby Hammel, portrayed by Thomas Mann, as he navigates the treacherous social constructs of a distinguished preparatory school and enters the dangerous world of drug trafficking to fit in. As he rises to prominence within the depraved underbelly of the prep school scene, Hammel embodies the blurred lines between ambition and temptation, loyalty, and betrayal. A gripping portrayal of the power dynamics and moral dilemmas faced at an elite institution, The Preppie Connection provokes questions about the price of prestige and the cost of conformity in the academic world.
- 5Al Pacino, Chris O'Donnell, James Rebhorn
Scent of a Woman showcases an intense and transformative weekend shared by the blind, retired Army officer, Lt. Frank Slade, played by the illustrious Al Pacino, and prep school student, Charlie Simms, portrayed by Chris O'Donnell. Their rendezvous exposes Charlie to the complexities, passions, and harsh realities of life outside of his privileged school environment. Anchored by Pacino's unforgettable performance, which earned him an Academy Award for Best Actor, this film highlights the indispensable role of empathy and human connection in transcending the boundaries of class and status.
More Scent of a Woman- #749 of 772 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #193 of 379 onThe Best Movies Of The 1990s
- #179 of 369 onThe Best Movies Based On Books
- 6
A Separate Peace
Parker Stevenson, William Roerick, Victor BevineA Separate Peace is a riveting coming-of-age tale, adapted from John Knowles' celebrated novel, depicting the friendship and rivalry between Gene and Finny, played by J Barton and Toby Moore, at an elite New England preparatory school during World War II. As the two navigate the tumultuous waters of adolescence and looming adulthood, their bond becomes an allegory for the innocence lost during times of conflict. This emotionally charged film delves into the depths of jealousy, guilt, and loyalty while enveloped by the backdrop of an esteemed institution.
- 7Irène Jacob, François Berléand, Philippe Morier-Genoud
Au revoir, les enfants, a thought-provoking film inspired by director Louis Malle's own experiences during Nazi-occupied France, unveils the story of a Catholic boarding school providing refuge to Jewish students. The narrative follows Julien, a reserved protagonist, as he forms an unexpected friendship with the secretive new addition, Jean Bonnet. The film, a recipient of numerous accolades, expertly reveals the human spirit's resilience amidst trying circumstances in the context of an elite scholastic institution.
- 8Max Irons, Sam Claflin, Douglas Booth
The Riot Club, a gripping and provocative British drama, unravels the dark and sordid underbelly of Oxford University's elite secret society. Focused on two first-year students, Alistair and Miles, the film navigates the treacherous fraternal realm teetering on a precipice filled with decadence, arrogance, and moral decay. A social commentary cloaked in opulence and privilege, The Riot Club delves into the gory consequences of unbridled ambition and entitlement at a renowned institution.
- 9Robin Tunney, Fairuza Balk, Neve Campbell
The Craft, a spellbinding supernatural thriller, delves into the lives of four outcast teenagers, led by the enigmatic Nancy, portrayed by Fairuza Balk, who seek solace in witchcraft at their preparatory school. As their newfound powers begin to spiral out of control, the film explores the repercussions of succumbing to one's darkest desires. Set against the backdrop of a prestigious boarding school, The Craft becomes a thrilling exploration of morality, identity, and the consequences of misused power.
More The Craft- Dig Deeper...What Ever Happened To The Cast Of 'The Craft'?
- And Deeper...Wicked Reactions To 'The Craft' Reboot That Would Make Manon Proud
- #116 of 379 onThe Best Movies Of The 1990s
- 10Zoey Deutch, Lucy Fry, Danila Kozlovsky
Based on the popular book series by Richelle Mead, Vampire Academy plunges viewers into the supernaturally-infused St. Vladimir's Academy, where half-human-half-vampire Dhampir guardians protect Moroi vampire royalty. The film follows protagonist Rose Hathaway, played by Zoey Deutch, and her best friend, Lissa Dragomir, portrayed by Lucy Fry, as they unravel sinister plots, navigate vampire politics, and confront forbidden love interests within the school's hallowed boundaries. This spellbinding film deftly crafts a riveting storyline that captivates audiences with its unique blend of vampiric lore, action, and the unmistakable ambiance of a mystical boarding school.
- 11Jason Schwartzman, Bill Murray, Olivia Williams
Rushmore, a delightfully quirky dark comedy directed by the renowned Wes Anderson, dives into the world of scholarship student Max Fischer, played by Jason Schwartzman, at the esteemed Rushmore Academy. Enraptured by extracurriculars and enamored by the first-grade teacher, Ms. Cross, Max battles against fellow suitor and businessman, Herman Blume, portrayed by the venerable Bill Murray. A poignant cult classic, this film explores ambition, dreams, and the art of self-discovery within the confines of a prestigious institution.
More Rushmore- #217 of 702 onThe All-Time Greatest Comedy Films
- #60 of 66 onMovies You Wish You Could Still Watch for the First Time
- #228 of 379 onThe Best Movies Of The 1990s
- 12Kevin Kline, Patrick Dempsey, Jesse Eisenberg
Set within the hallowed halls of St. Benedict's Academy, The Emperor's Club follows an inspiring classics teacher, William Hundert, portrayed by Kevin Kline, as he imparts valuable lessons about moral integrity and ambition to his students. Decades later, Hundert reunites with one of his complex, enigmatic pupils, Sedgewick Bell, played by Emile Hirsch, for a debate rematch that reignites unresolved emotions. This engaging drama navigates the intricacies of mentorship, ethics, and the lasting impact of formative relationships within the venerated realm of a boarding school.
More The Emperor's Club- #44 of 51 onThe Best Movies Based on Short Stories
- #208 of 215 onThe Best Movies by Universal Studios
- #40 of 78 onThe Best Movies For And About Teachers, Ranked By Fans
- 13Amanda Bynes, James Kirk, Channing Tatum
A hilarious, modern reinterpretation of Shakespeare's Twelfth Night, She's the Man follows teenager Viola Hastings, played by Amanda Bynes, as she disguises herself as her brother and enrolls in Illyria Prep School to join the boys' soccer team. Amidst a whirlwind of comedy, unexpected romance, and exquisite soccer skills, Viola confronts both gender stereotypes and Cambridge University's Olivia Lennox, portrayed by Laura Ramsey, with heartfelt emotion. This entertaining teen flick playfully tackles the absurd and intricate confines of a prep school whilst shedding light on gender norms and expectations.
More She's the Man- #36 of 113 onThe 100+ Best Movies About High School
- #2 of 168 onThe 150+ Best Teen Romance Movies, Ranked
- #77 of 101 onThe Best Movies Of 2006
- 14Nicholas Galitzine, Fionn O'Shea
Handsome Devil follows the unlikely yet heartwarming friendship forged between a music-loving loner Ned, portrayed by Fionn O'Shea, and his rugby prodigy roommate Conor, played by Nicholas Galitzine, at a rugby-obsessed boarding school. As they challenge the school's traditional norms, both young men confront the power of allyship in overcoming toxic masculinity and its oppressive confines. This acclaimed coming-of-age tale celebrates individuality, understanding, and the unbreakable bonds of friendship in a rigid yet transformative educational setting.
- 15Jack Black, Joan Cusack, Mike White
School of Rock, a high-spirited comedy, shines the spotlight on struggling musician Dewey Finn, played by the indomitable Jack Black, as he disguises himself as a substitute teacher to infiltrate the prestigious Horace Green Prep School. Amid the school's structured environment, Dewey instills an unwavering passion for rock music and self-expression, ultimately forming a prodigious band with his students. Bursting with exuberance, hilarity, and unforgettable melodies, School of Rock captivates viewers while championing the transformative power of art over conformity in a revered educational institution.
More School of Rock- Dig Deeper...Every Song in School of Rock, Ranked by Singability
- And Deeper...What Happened To All The Kids From 'School of Rock'
- #304 of 772 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- 16Sean Astin, Louis Gossett Jr., Wil Wheaton
Toy Soldiers is an adrenaline-filled action thriller set in Regis High School, an elite boarding school for the sons of powerful figures, where rebellious student, Billy Tepper, played by Sean Astin, and his friends must outwit terrorists that have taken the institution hostage. As they develop an ingenious strategy to reclaim their school, Tepper and his classmates defy expectations and exhibit exceptional bravery. Providing an exhilarating edge-of-your-seat experience, Toy Soldiers skillfully combines the prestigious boarding school setting with the high-stakes tension of unyielding teenage resilience.
More Toy Soldiers- #30 of 86 onThe Best Movies Of 1991, Ranked
- #36 of 40 onThe Best Movies Where Unlikely Heroes Prevail
- #15 of 157 onThe Best TriStar Pictures Movies List
- 17Eleanor Bron, Liam Cunningham, Liesel Matthews
A Little Princess, inspired by Frances Hodgson Burnett's timeless novel, unfurls the life of a young, imaginative heroine, Sara Crewe, played by Liesel Matthews, as she is sent to Miss Minchin's School for Girls after her father enlists in World War I. Amidst the stern walls of the school, Sara's boundless imagination and unwavering kindness win her allies and create a magical world of wonder. This enchanting film not only captures the enduring spirit of a young girl but also the transcendent power of storytelling fueling human connection in the backdrop of a prestigious institution.
More A Little Princess- #273 of 379 onThe Best Movies Of The 1990s
- #58 of 133 onThe Most Utterly Depressing Movies Ever Made
- #64 of 114 onThe Greatest Movie Remakes Of All Time
- 18Natalia Dyer, Timothy Simons, Wolfgang Novogratz
Yes, God, Yes, an irreverent and charming coming-of-age film, brings audiences into the life of Alice, played by Natalia Dyer, during her time at a Catholic high school and the ensuing awkward and humorous religious retreat. As she navigates the confusing labyrinth of teenage lust, hypocrisy, and judgment, Alice embarks on a quest for self-discovery and the truth about human desire. The film thoughtfully examines the impact that external expectations and school-derived pressures can have on an individual's journey amid a faith-guided educational landscape.
- 19Jessica Harper, Stefania Casini, Joan Bennett
Suspiria, a visually captivating and surreal horror masterpiece, unfolds the tale of Suzy Bannion, played by Jessica Harper, as she arrives at a prestigious German ballet academy only to discover that sinister forces are at work. Facing disquieting and supernatural occurrences, Suzy must unravel the academy's dark secrets and elude malevolent threats that seem inextricably linked to the institution's very core. This mesmerizing cult classic film expertly weaves atmospheric tension, bewitching visuals, and an entrancing score to create a harrowing, dreamlike experience set within the enigmatic walls of a distinguished school.
More Suspiria- #255 of 396 onThe Best Horror Movies Of All Time
- #71 of 77 onThe 75+ Best Horror Franchises, Ranked By Scary Movie Fans
- #153 of 199 onThe Best Movies Of The '70s, Ranked
- 20Judd Nelson, Andrew Dice Clay, Gordon Jump
Making the Grade, set at Hoover Academy, is an 80s teen comedy chronicling Eddie Keaton's world, a street-smart teen played by Judd Nelson, who assumes a wealthy student's identity to attend the prestigious preparatory school, leading to hilarity and faux-elite absurdity. As Eddie navigates the social underpinnings and finds love in the form of fellow student Tracey, played by the charming Dana Olsen, the film delves into the interplay between class distinction and self-awareness within a revered institution. Offering both laughter and life lessons, Making the Grade proves that social standing and cultural expectations can be transcended through humor, heart, and adaptability.
- 21Jacqueline Bisset, Rob Lowe, Andrew McCarthy
Class is a captivating and thought-provoking drama following Jonathan, portrayed by Andrew McCarthy, a middle-class student who enters a world of privilege and ruthlessness as he attends an elite preparatory school. Complications arise as he unintentionally begins an affair with his roommate's enigmatic mother, played by Jacqueline Bisset, testing both his moral compass and the limits of loyalty. This unforgettable film offers a searing portrayal of the lengths to which one might go when caught in the intricate web of friendships and relationships bred in the prestigious world of academia.
More Class- #213 of 233 onThe Best '80s Comedy Movies, Ranked
- #50 of 72 onThe 70+ Best Movies From 1983, Ranked
- #61 of 110 onThe Funniest Movies About High School
- 22Danielle Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, Emma Watson
The Harry Potter franchise, an enchanting and globally beloved series, immerses viewers into the world of wizardry and magical education at the iconic Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, following the lives of Harry Potter, Hermione Granger, and Ron Weasley, played by Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, and Rupert Grint, respectively. Facing various challenges, the trio grows and evolves amidst the charm and danger of their mystical school. Steeped in enchantment and adventure, the franchise skillfully captures a unique and fantastical boarding school experience that has enthralled audiences for generations.
- 23Shawn Hatosy, Jon Abrahams, Tommy Bone
Outside Providence, a poignant comedy-drama, takes viewers into the life of Timothy Dunphy, portrayed by Shawn Hatosy, exploring the humor and heartache that unfolds when a working-class teenager is compelled to attend the prim Cornhill Academy. As Timothy grapples with love, friendships, and adapting to the prestigious boarding school life, he discovers the power of self-acceptance and genuine connection. This remarkable film offers a quirky and heartwarming glimpse into the myriad intricacies and nuances of navigating two distinct worlds while remaining hopeful amidst the challenges that arise at a renowned institution.
- 24Sean Connery, Rob Brown, F. Murray Abraham
Finding Forrester, directed by the esteemed Gus Van Sant, chronicles the unlikely friendship between reclusive writer William Forrester, played by the indisputable Sean Connery, and gifted teenager Jamal Wallace, portrayed by Rob Brown. As the narrative unfolds, both characters find solace, guidance, and inspiration in each other within the academically demanding environment of a private school. Rife with powerful lessons about mentorship, overcoming stereotypes, and embracing talent, this poignant drama becomes a testament to the transformative connections formed while traversing the world of academia.
More Finding Forrester- #304 of 369 onThe Best Movies Based On Books
- #33 of 68 onThe Best High School Sports Movies
- #18 of 76 on80+ Great Movies About Black Teens
- 25Rupert Everett, Colin Firth, Michael Jenn
Another Country, a period drama steeped in British tradition, transports viewers to an elite boys' boarding school in the 1930s, where protagonists Guy Bennett, portrayed by Rupert Everett, and Tommy Judd, played by Colin Firth, are confronted with a reality riddled with British upper-class mores and expectations. Through their friendship, they challenge the rigid boundaries of their environment and develop the intellectual freedom their school attempts to suppress. An intimate exploration of social hierarchy, politics, and personal identity, Another Country poignantly captures the duality of life in the public-school setting.
More Another Country- #26 of 75 onThe Best Movies About Being Yourself And Self-Love
- #46 of 156 onThe 100+ Best Movies With Gay Themes
- #46 of 46 onThe Best '80s Spy Movies
- 26Carly Schroeder, Taylor Lambert, Ben Bellamy
Prep School, a riveting drama set against the backdrop of a prestigious preparatory school, delves into the complex inner workings of competitive teenage relationships and the consequences of a tragic event that marks the life of protagonist Kyler Noble, portrayed by Ben Bellamy. The movie's narrative interweaves with the uniquely diverse experiences of Kyler's classmates, creating a vivid tapestry of adolescent struggles, triumphs, and unyielding ambition. A powerful and emotionally charged story, Prep School exemplifies the lengths to which individuals will go to preserve their most cherished dreams while traversing the revered world of academia.
- 27Carey Mulligan, Andrew Garfield, Keira Knightley
Never Let Me Go, a captivating adaptation of Kazuo Ishiguro's novel, unravels the entwined lives of Kathy, Ruth, and Tommy, played by Carey Mulligan, Keira Knightley, and Andrew Garfield, at the mysterious Hailsham boarding school as they navigate love, loss, and their haunting destiny. This poignant drama expertly blends elements of science fiction and romance within the boarding school's seemingly idyllic yet secretive confines. With its evocative atmosphere and gripping narrative, Never Let Me Go expertly layers love and heartache within the walls of a distinguished educational environment while urging its characters and viewers to confront the inexorable passage of time.
More Never Let Me Go- #152 of 165 onThe 150+ Best Futuristic Dystopian Movies
- #93 of 133 onThe Most Utterly Depressing Movies Ever Made
- #474 of 675 onThe Best Movies Roger Ebert Gave Four Stars
- 28Gael García Bernal, Pedro Almodóvar, Leonor Watling
Bad Education (La Mala Educación), directed by the brilliant Pedro Almodóvar, seamlessly intertwines the tales of two childhood friends, Ignacio and Enrique, portrayed by Gael García Bernal and Fele Martínez, as they navigate the complexities of truth, love, and deception in their lives, rooted in their memories of a Catholic boarding school. A dark reflection on abuse of power and the depths of betrayal, the narrative unfolds with the introduction of a story within a story, hinged on the school's authority figures, exposing the faults lying beneath the veneer of the respected institution. Almodóvar's mastery of storytelling and evocative cinematography render Bad Education an unforgettable journey packed with sharp twists and poignant emotion.
More Bad Education- #88 of 99 onThe Best Movies Of 2004, Ranked
- #115 of 156 onThe 100+ Best Movies With Gay Themes
- #78 of 80 onThe 75+ Best Transsexual Movies
- 29Kieran Culkin, Jena Malone, Emile Hirsch
Set in a strict Catholic school in the turbulent 1970s, The Dangerous Lives of Altar Boys showcases the compelling story of Francis and Tim, two precocious friends played by Emile Hirsch and Kieran Culkin, who channel their rebellious energy into creating a subversive comic book. As the pair navigate their journey amidst strict school authority, the film captures adolescence's vibrant spirit and faces the exploration of faith, morality, and artistic freedom. A resilient tale cloaked in whimsy and rebellion, The Dangerous Lives of Altar Boys blends the staid institution backdrop with the imaginative resilience inherent in youth.
- #138 of 152 onThe Best Movies of 2002
- #34 of 60 onThe Best Coming of Age Movies About Boys
- #38 of 43 on30+ Very Preppy Movies with the Preppiest Characters
- 30Kirsten Dunst, Hayden Christensen, Rachael Leigh Cook
The Hairy Bird, also known as All I Wanna Do, is a lively comedy centered upon an eclectic group of teenage girls led by Verena, played by Kirsten Dunst, who band together to save their beloved Miss Godard's all-girls prep school from an impending merger. Set in the 1960s and filled with heart, humor, and a touch of teenage rebellion, the film successfully fuses the trials of teenage life with the charm of the prestigious school atmosphere. Amid the ensemble cast, the girls' camaraderie and resilience shine, making a warm and noteworthy addition to prep school films.
More The Hairy Bird- #31 of 31 on'90s Movies That Totally Defined Teenage Girl Life
- #88 of 105 onThe 100+ Best 90s Teen Movies
- #49 of 83 onThe 80+ Best PG-13 Indie Movies
