What's your favorite high school movie?

This list can BLoME Fri, Jul 11, 2008 at 02:17 PM EST

dazed and confused=#1 and fast times #2...terrible decision to put breakfast club as #1 it sucked

Ron Mon, Jun 30, 2008 at 03:04 AM EST

I would have ranked, 'Can't Hardly Wait' a little higher.

Good list though.
Some sick movies in there.

I like the #1 pick a lot.
"It's nice."

Kevin Mon, Jun 9, 2008 at 08:25 PM EST

Temporada de Patos!!

john Fri, May 30, 2008 at 10:37 PM EST

donnie darko sound track isn't the best ever?!?!?!?! since when?

Ron Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 02:50 PM EST

ghost world took place in high school for the first 10 minutes. but the rest is outside of it. anyways its one of the best.

claire Sat, Apr 26, 2008 at 08:12 AM EST

WHERE WAS "10 THINGS I HATE ABOUT YOU"?????? What kind of a list do you call this, if it doesn't include the best high-school movie of all time?!!! This movie is AMAZING!! I kept waiting for it, and it didn't appear :( :(

Thu, Apr 17, 2008 at 03:59 AM EST

Where in God's name is PUMP UP THE VOLUME?! Did I actually miss it? 50 best and that one's missing? That just ain't right.

luz Fri, Apr 11, 2008 at 08:20 PM EST

TEEN WITCH, HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL, REMEMBER THE TITANS, SHE'S ALL THAT, AND A WALK TO REMEMBER should soo be on the list !!

the Oz Wed, Apr 2, 2008 at 05:13 PM EST

How can you forget these gems:

3 O'clock High - best after-school fight scene!

Mischief - Really how did this not make the list

Weird Science - Two words Kelly LeBrock

Michelle Sun, Mar 2, 2008 at 12:25 AM EST

Move up Pretty in Pink!

Big Willie Styles Sat, Feb 23, 2008 at 06:54 PM EST

Better Off Dead didn't the list! That movie was fantastic! Two Dollars!

What about Bill and Ted's Excellent Adventure? That movie was EX-CEL-LENT!

Where's Weird Science?

Sixteen Candles should have been in the top 5. Just for Long Duk Don!

emily Mon, Feb 18, 2008 at 02:08 AM EST

The Outsiders!! and 10 Things I Hate About You.

emily Mon, Feb 18, 2008 at 02:08 AM EST

The Outsiders!! and 10 Things I Hate About You.

umum Sat, Jan 12, 2008 at 11:41 PM EST

move sixteen candles and grease to the top 10. definitely missing footloose, lean on me, the last american virgin, and some kind of wonderful.

Erica Thu, Jan 10, 2008 at 08:51 PM EST

Found it! For anyone else curious, it's Rock and Roll High School!

Erica Thu, Jan 10, 2008 at 08:50 PM EST

Found it! For anyone else curious, it's Rock and Roll High School!

Erica Thu, Jan 10, 2008 at 07:28 PM EST

I'm also trying to find this movie's name, an 80's or 90's high school movie where the teenagers kinda face off against the principle but the principle has like a metal mechanical hand. and she's real butch lookin.

jenna menna Fri, Nov 30, 2007 at 02:39 PM EST

can some one please help me find the name of this movie. ok its like a 80's or 90's high school movie where the teenagers kinda face off against the principle but the principle has like a metal mechanical hand. and she's real butch lookin.

Jessie Mon, Nov 26, 2007 at 01:09 AM EST

I agree that Valley Girl should have been on it. And Sixteen Candles should have been waaay higher on the list - Jake Ryan, come up!

Doris Sat, Nov 10, 2007 at 10:44 PM EST

Where is Valley Girl? It was a nice 80's take on the whole Romeo and Juliet tale. Even though everything about the clothes, music, and the Valley itself is pretty much out of date, the basic theme is timeless.

nathan Thu, Sep 27, 2007 at 05:21 PM EST

you forgot superbad. It's not on there, that supersucks.

Thu, Aug 30, 2007 at 12:40 PM EST

Should be on list...
Better off Dead, Teen Wolf, Bill & Ted, 3 O'Clock High,

Steven Sun, Aug 26, 2007 at 09:01 PM EST

cruel intentions was a great movie

patty Thu, Aug 23, 2007 at 05:37 PM EST

"THE OUTSIDERS"

patty Thu, Aug 23, 2007 at 05:35 PM EST

"THE OUTSIDERS"

steve Thu, Aug 23, 2007 at 04:04 AM EST

SUPERBAD

angie Fri, Aug 17, 2007 at 12:11 AM EST

i think u should hav put mallrats on! it may take place in a mall not scool but thats wher teens spend all ther time! nd (i'm not crazy) the covaenant. if you cut out the magic, then its a teen issue movie about problems wit new guys, other guys tryin 2 steal the girlfriend nd best friend fites!

Bob Mon, Aug 13, 2007 at 10:00 PM EST

You definitely forgot 10 Things I Hate About You

messi Tue, Jul 17, 2007 at 03:24 AM EST

for me its Detroit Rock City.

Bonnie Ballard Sun, Jul 8, 2007 at 05:53 AM EST

Here's a couple of high school/music movies you missed: Drumline and Mr. Holland's Opus. . both excellent!

Brian Sun, Jul 8, 2007 at 01:29 AM EST

Interesting list. The only "blatant" issue I have is that Mean Girls, although pretty good, is ranked way too high.

joe Thu, Jul 5, 2007 at 01:07 AM EST

how could you'll forget "10 things i hate about"

Rich McEuen Thu, Jun 28, 2007 at 01:06 PM EST

Hollywood Nights. Robert Wuhl's first film it also had Tony Danza, Michelle Pfieffer, Fran Dresher and others. It never seemed to catch on the way I thought it should but it continues to be my favorite teen movie of all time.

Fri, May 18, 2007 at 02:07 AM EST

What about Never Been Kissed, and also Cruel Intentions. Those are 2 awesome high school movies!

kwelt Sat, May 5, 2007 at 12:56 PM EST

Seems to me you've got to include Bill and Ted's Excellent Adventure, even if it's only tied for 50th place or something. Talk about making history relevant....

Ashley Fri, May 4, 2007 at 11:09 PM EST

Where is 10 Things I Hate About You? Honestly.

frances Thu, May 3, 2007 at 05:08 PM EST

Its an outrage that "Just One Of The Guys" ranked higher than "Sixteen Candles."

Kels Sat, Apr 28, 2007 at 11:26 AM EST

The Breakfast Club is the best high school movie ever, so thanks for putting it as number 1! And no, Mean Girls isn't our version of The Breakfast Club. The Breakfast Club is my favorite movie & I'm only 14, so speak for yourself when saying Mean Girls is better, although I do like that movie.

Carleen Sat, Apr 7, 2007 at 02:12 PM EST

i am really happy that MEAN GIRLS made the list as it portrays high school life quite accurately. but these should be on the list too: SHE'S ALL THAT, 10 THINGS I HATE ABOUT YOU & CRUEL INTENTIONS

Carleen Sat, Apr 7, 2007 at 02:09 PM EST

Grease should me moved up
I'm glad to see that Mean Girls was on the list but these should have been on the list too: She's All That, 10 Things hate about You & Cruel Intentions

Dani Tue, Apr 3, 2007 at 12:21 AM EST

I am so excited that The Breakfast Club was number one, but 10 Things I Hate About You wasn't even on the list. Tsk, tsk.

clifford Mon, Mar 5, 2007 at 04:58 PM EST

you got the top 2 right
sixteen candles was too low
But how in the world could you leave out "Over The Edge"
That movie epitomized what high school was for me and my friends.

björn Sun, Mar 4, 2007 at 02:26 AM EST

hmm i'm reeeeeally interested in this list but can't find it as well. the link just leads to one picture of "Just one of the guys" and that's it.

would be superb if somebody could help!

Sarah Sun, Feb 4, 2007 at 01:21 PM EST

Hey guys,

I need help. When I click on the link "The 50 Best Highschool Movies" I just see some pictures. Where can I read the list?

annie Tue, Jan 23, 2007 at 07:08 AM EST

What about The Year My Voice Broke - classic Australian film.

eve Fri, Jan 5, 2007 at 01:18 PM EST

Why is not Porky's on the list, that's like the greatest movie of all time. The first time I saw it I was kinda' depressed and yet I couldn't stop laughing. The Breakfast Club on first place is great though, it's brilliant! And also John Tucker Must Die really deserve a place on the list. As my final comment, I love American Pie!

Christie Wed, Jan 3, 2007 at 01:22 AM EST

John Tucker Must Die? Are you kidding me? Pretty in pink beats out that and pretty and pink sucks in my opinion.

I do think 16 candles should have been higher on the list. It is SOOOOO good. Breakfast club is soooo good too. My favorite movie. I have it on DVD ;D

nicole Tue, Jan 2, 2007 at 12:55 AM EST

the breakfast club as number 1?! are you kidding me?! definitely not the best high school movie! 10 things i hate about you and john tucker must die definitely should have been included!

mj Sat, Dec 30, 2006 at 12:25 PM EST

This is my all time favourite genre of film. I liked Crime and Punishment in Suburbia. And The Dangerous Lives of Altar Boys.

boyin Fri, Dec 29, 2006 at 03:04 AM EST

some of the movies on that list are questionable - harry potter?! please! what happened to Never Been Kissed, Shag, Pleasantville, Scent of a Woman, One crazy summer, Lean on me, Remember the titans, Save the last dance and To Sir with love?!

buki Fri, Dec 29, 2006 at 02:39 AM EST

i can't believe you guys left out great movies like remember the titans, lean on me, "o", save the last dance, empire club, she's all that, nightmare on elm street, urban legend, i know what you did last summer, revenge of the nerds, student exchange, last american virgin and the faculty. I think "Grease" should have been higher up on the list and "Harry Potter", "Mean girls" and "donnie darko" have no business being on that list. REALLY!

Christina Sun, Dec 24, 2006 at 03:14 PM EST

I don't care about the rest of the list. "Breakfast Club" is number 1, and I am happy. I was born a year AFTER that movie first came out, and I just graduated from HS in '04, and it's STILL my favorite highschool movie of all time. Hell, it might even be my favorite movie of all time, period. It's perfect. I just can't understand how people can say it doesn't hold up. Here we are some 21 years later and it's shown on different cable channels practically every week all throughout the year for a reason. It holds up (and true) beautifully. It is the gold standard of teen movies.

Cheers, EW! You picked the right movie for #1!

nicolle Sun, Dec 24, 2006 at 02:25 AM EST

Umm...wow, lots wrong here. So many movies deserved to be on here versus the ones that were. "Grease" shoudl have been much higher, like number 5 at least. What about "10 Things I hate about you"? And most of all, THE OUTSIDERS!!! All these deserve to be higher on the list than "Mean Girls" and "Harry Potter 4" (wtf guys? thats elementary school list). O, and what about FOOTLOOSE!!?? Geeze, worst list ever, the only one right on was #1

J Keiter Thu, Dec 21, 2006 at 02:07 AM EST

How about Varsity Blues??? Who could forget Billy Bob........ "Miss Davis, will you go to the prom wi'me?" Better than Friday Night Lights. Should have made the list.

danielle in buffalo Sat, Dec 9, 2006 at 07:48 PM EST

what about
"Lean On Me"

i loved this movie! so it for first time on HBO a couple months ago, thought it was a great story

jimmy Sat, Dec 9, 2006 at 11:29 AM EST

"Grease" should have been placed much higher. No. 2 would have been a good place for it. I do agree however that "The Breakfast Club" is indeed the greatest high school movie ever made.

Terrel Mon, Dec 4, 2006 at 10:32 PM EST

I won't say where these movies should've been placed on the list, but "License To Drive", "Teen Wolf", "Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure", "Three O'clock High", and "Some Kind Of Wonderful" should all be included. While I will admit to having an 80's bias, I still believe these movies were imporant to the high school mentality both during their time and even today. However, overall the list was laid out relatively well.

Sherry Fri, Dec 1, 2006 at 09:31 AM EST

Better Off Dead and the Faculty are far and away the most surreal and outlandish (and therefore accurate) movies about high schools I've seen. And not many films mine suicide and poking your teacher's eye out with a meth pen for laughs.

amm Fri, Dec 1, 2006 at 02:34 AM EST

WHAT?! stand an deliver shouldnt even be on the LIST! jeez. we've watched that movie every year from 8th thru 11th grade. give it a rest already. its way too corny

Michael Tue, Nov 28, 2006 at 10:31 PM EST

DAZED AND CONFUSED went ahead of Boyz N The Hood?! That's an insult! What have you got, a team of trained chimps hammering this out? (No, that's not my own witticism, but I'm a bit angry to be clever right now.)

Marisa Sun, Nov 26, 2006 at 06:50 PM EST

Where were Better Off Dead and Dream a Little Dream?

Tammy Wed, Nov 22, 2006 at 06:43 PM EST

Glad to see Heathers so high on the list ... thought you might shy away from it with all of the high school violence going on these days.

Valley Girl? It doesn't have the most original plot but the music is great and Nic Cage with his triangle of chest hair is awesome.

Tammy Wed, Nov 22, 2006 at 06:43 PM EST

Glad to see Heathers so high on the list ... thought you might shy away from it with all of the high school violence going on these days.

Valley Girl? It doesn't have the most original plot but the music is great and Nic Cage with his triangle of chest hair is awesome.

Jonah Falcon Wed, Nov 22, 2006 at 05:06 PM EST

Once more, few, if any, films occured before 1980.

Notable films you overlooked:

I Was a Teen-Age Werewolf
Girls Town
Blackboard Jungle
King Creole
The Rose Tattoo

And if you're going to list 1980's teenage romps, where's Porky's?

Rachel Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 06:45 PM EST

Three words:
Detroit Rock City.

Caroline Mon, Nov 20, 2006 at 12:55 PM EST

You forgot the Outsiders. It was the dark side of high school.

vicente Sat, Nov 18, 2006 at 12:40 AM EST

...you also forgot how much John Waters love teeneagers and therefore his Cry Baby and Hairspray, two of the best highschool movies ever!!!

mrcunn02 Wed, Nov 15, 2006 at 10:15 PM EST

Last American Virgin
"O"
Remember the Titans
Elephant
Some Kind of Wonderful
Teen Wolf

Natasha Sun, Nov 5, 2006 at 08:39 AM EST

Pretty Persuasion is one of the best high school movies out there.

Carlos Sat, Nov 4, 2006 at 02:35 PM EST

Are you kidding?!!! No "Blackboard Jungle"?! Unbelievable. Glenn Ford, Sidney Poitier, Anne Francis, Vic Morrow. "Rock Around the Clock" for the entering credits. Anybody there ever even seen it? Revise the list! It is presently illegitimate.

Adam Wed, Nov 1, 2006 at 08:39 PM EST

You definately missed SAVED! I would like to see DONNIE DARKO way higher on the list, CLUELESS needs to leave, and you also missed WELCOME TO THE DOLLHOUSE. But I must thank you for putting REBEL WITHOUT A CAUSE so high.

whatsupdoc Mon, Oct 30, 2006 at 09:26 PM EST

Private School and Porky's have to top the list!

George Thu, Oct 26, 2006 at 04:07 PM EST

National Lampoon's Van Wilder definately needs to be on the list. Yes, it's college and not high school, but it has all the same attitude as a high school film, and everyone in the movie still basically acts as if they are still in high school.

Richie in Manila Tue, Oct 24, 2006 at 11:33 PM EST

You forgot the following:

Zapped!
Porky's
Some Kind of Wonderful
The Last American Virgin

It would have been quite essential to have these in the list.

Aly Tue, Oct 24, 2006 at 10:30 PM EST

EMPIRE RECORDS!

ChopSuey Mon, Oct 23, 2006 at 08:57 PM EST

I just have to say this one thing: why in the WORLD is ferris bueller's day off only number 10?! maybe not number one material but come on!

drew Mon, Oct 23, 2006 at 03:22 PM EST

BETTER OFF DEAD

Kayla Carson Sun, Oct 22, 2006 at 02:31 PM EST

harry potter???? while i love the books, come one!!!! why isn't A Walk To Remember on there? and Never Been Kissed? they're both fabulous movies. and Grease is way too low on the list!!!

Tiffany Sun, Oct 22, 2006 at 11:38 AM EST

There are so many other great high school movies out there! I understand you could only choose 50, but why not make it 100? Surely you could think of at least that many, if not more!

Here are some great ones that were left out...
~Saved
~School of Rock (Not exactly high school, but close enough)
~Cruel Intentions
~Jawbreaker
~10 Things I Hate About You
~Never Been Kissed
~The Perfect Score
~The Craft
~Confessions of a Teenage Drama Queen (Another great Lindsay Lohan movie)

And the one I haven't seen mentioned once:
Pleasantville! How could you leave that one out? It's an amazing high school movie!

And one last thing. Harry Potter??? Come on!

Samantha Fri, Oct 20, 2006 at 05:29 PM EST

There is this new Movie coming out called "Persuit to Happyness." And this movie is really going to be good. Also, with that they have this contest for College students, where you can win the chance to be an intern at well-known companies such as GAP, or People Magazine. Check it out.www.sony.com/pursue-it

james Wed, Oct 18, 2006 at 04:48 AM EST

what happened to Empire records?? Sure it didnt add up to the breakfast club and te like but it was better than

mike Tue, Oct 17, 2006 at 08:06 PM EST

As an "authority" on teacher school movies, I would give you an A+ for the evaluations. You may have been limited by a lack of research in creating a base list for review. What happened to Pleasantville? Use my list to expand you possibilities. www.movieteacher46.com

mike Tue, Oct 17, 2006 at 08:06 PM EST

As an "authority" on teacher school movies, I would give you an A+ for the evaluations. You may have been limited by a lack of research in creating a base list for review. What happened to Pleasantville? Use my list to expand you possibilities. www.movieteacher46.com

mike Tue, Oct 17, 2006 at 08:05 PM EST

As an "authority" on teacher school movies, I would give you an A+ for the evaluations. You may have been limited by a lack of research in creating a base list for review. What happened to Pleasantville? Use my list to expand you possibilities. www.movieteacher46.com

Jessica & Mikael Tue, Oct 17, 2006 at 09:50 AM EST

Dead Poets Society - Beaten by Clueless and Grease?!? This is a crime! And what about Scent of A Woman? that didn't even make the list.

Kristin Sun, Oct 15, 2006 at 02:30 PM EST

Awww you guys forgot Cruel Intentions!

Joey D. Sat, Oct 14, 2006 at 05:34 PM EST

ELEPHANT!! One of the scariest movies I've ever seen, and one of the best. I can't bring myself to watch it again because it's so horrifying. After seeing it, I became so paranoid about everyone around me, thinking they could shoot up my school.

Jenn Hillier Tue, Oct 3, 2006 at 12:29 PM EST

How about School of Rock?

I was looking for a list of movies set in High Schools for one of my education classes in Uni and this has been fantastic. Not only EW's list, but also all the suggestions that everyone else here has been making too.

I was really surprised no one mentioned (unless I missed it somewhere) Dangerous Minds. That one is based on a novel by L. Johnson (yes the main character) called 'My Posse Don't Do Homework.' Excellent stuff!

Now I feel the need to create a list of movies set in a high school setting. If anyone would like to suggest one or a dozen movies for my list, please feel free to email me. :)

Keep on Posting!!

John T. Sat, Sep 30, 2006 at 09:56 AM EST

What about the greatest high school tear jerker movie, A Walk To Remember and another favorite, Speak?

Ryan Gartley Fri, Sep 29, 2006 at 03:05 PM EST

3 O'Clock High -- best, brass-knuckle fight scene done for comedy. Ever.

Katie Mon, Sep 25, 2006 at 12:58 PM EST

I am so glad Heathers made the top ten, that movie deserves to be there. Along with Dazed and Confused.

Sixteen Candles should be much higher! As should Pretty in Pink.

Here are some movies I think you missed.

Footloose
Teen Witch
Summer School
Last Dance
10 Things I Hate about You
Buffy the Vampire Slayer (the original)

Kryce Pettman Sat, Sep 23, 2006 at 10:42 AM EST

You forgot the movie Saved starring Mandy Moore, Mary Louise Parker, and Macauley Culkin

Sabrina Fri, Sep 22, 2006 at 08:22 AM EST

Okay, I liked the list. But, I also found movies that would be on my personal list of best High School movies:

- Teaching Mrs. Tingle: Seems like ther ultimate dream come true for every student suffering from teachers who are abusing their powers
- Teen Wolf: 80's trash at its best. Sort of Jekyll & Hyde in High School featuring then-heartthrob Michael J. Fox and and Jerry Levine as sidekick Stiles, who will always be remembered as "the guy with the coolest shirts ever!" (I mean, "Obnoxious: the movie". Hallo?)
- Jawbreaker: Bigger and meaner sister of "Mean Girls". Regardless, shocking, funny. If Rose McGowan as devil on heels doesn't scare you, you must be Marilyn Manson.
- She's all that: It's so cute, I can't believe it is not on the list. One of many Cinderella movie versions, but this one from the 90's is not only charming, but also intelligent. Most importantly: it's hip and exactly what teenagers in the 90's wanted.
- Not another Teen Movie: Okay, it is definately not the best movie ever made. Its funnieness is questionable and it is not quite subversive in its content. But, after talking so much about the meaning of High School movies, why not choosing one that parodies this meaning.

Amanda Fri, Sep 22, 2006 at 04:35 AM EST

what about REALITY BITES???

and CRUEL INTENTIONS and HOW TO DEAL.

photojett Thu, Sep 21, 2006 at 10:43 PM EST

Better off Dead was left off? That's a classic.

azgrooveguy Thu, Sep 21, 2006 at 04:24 AM EST

While many of your flicks are inspired choices, this must be your worst top 50 list of all time. 'Harry Potter'??

Glaring omissions are:
Last American Virgin, should have made the top 10
Valley Girl
Saved!
Better Off Dead
Little Darlings
Christine
Welcome to the Dollhouse

'Fast Times at Ridgemont High', 'Sixteen Candles', or 'Ferris Bueller's Day Off' could have all been number 1.

I agree with 'Dazed and Confused' being 3, and can't believe so many people don't get that movie.

David Wed, Sep 20, 2006 at 04:50 PM EST

What about With Honors and SChool Ties

brendan Wed, Sep 20, 2006 at 01:49 PM EST

are you guys brain dead,where's lost boys, the outsiders, dream a little dream, too many left off the list for some of the trash included

Tyler Wed, Sep 20, 2006 at 09:41 AM EST

What about Shag,"1989" (Annabeth Gish, Bridget Fonda, Phoebe Cates. Also, what about Memphis Belle "1990" (Eric Slotz, D.B. Sweeney, Sean Astin, Eric Stolz. Billy Zane, and Harry Connick Jr.

khalee Wed, Sep 20, 2006 at 09:15 AM EST

Ok, my bad...u guys have To Sir, With Love ranked at 27 but how is Bring It On better than Friday Night Lights? Or Can't Hardly Wait? Or ANY Harry Potter movie? You might as well put the bank-robbing cheerleaders in at 29 if you were gonna put wack Bring It On at 30. There are 2 many very good movies included by the people commenting on this blog for a movie like Bring It On to even be considered. Yes, I'm HATIN on it cause I don't get the logic of the people who made this list. You guys OWE us further explanation.

Khalee Wed, Sep 20, 2006 at 09:08 AM EST

Cornbread, Earl & Me...
Lean On Me...
To Sir With Love...
The Wood...
Remember the Titans...
Cruel Intentions...
The Craft...
Dangerous Minds....
The Inkwell (Does a SUMMER Movie about H.S. kids count?)
Ha, if so, even Don't Tell Mom the Babysitter's Dead, should get a mention....
Teaching Mrs. Tingle...

You guys, or WHOMEVER did this list did poorly......

are all HIGH SCHOOL movies BETTER than most of the movies on this list. Period. Bring It On????

Marshall G Tue, Sep 19, 2006 at 07:14 PM EST

How can you not include "Saved!"? It shows kids at a private Christian high school experiencing all the same temptations, struggles & issues teens at public schools deal with (except for gangs, though there's a girl gang of sorts that's a Christian version of Mean Girl's "Plastics") Plus, it's both funny and poignant. The cast is great, with Mandy Moore as the leader of the girl gang, Jena Malone as the lead character who sleeps with her boyfriend to keep him from becoming gay (and in the process gets pregnant), and Macauley Culkin as a parapalegic teen who, despite his disability, comes across as the coolest guy in school. A must-see!

bubsmp Tue, Sep 19, 2006 at 02:19 PM EST

Obviously this was to difficult a job for your staff. I have never agreed 100% with your lists but this is the first time an article, poll, list, comment etc... has made me question whether I will renew my subscription. I cannot express my disapointment in the selection, as well as, the placement of the choices.

darko Tue, Sep 19, 2006 at 05:37 AM EST

deffintly cruel intentions, stand by me, remember the Titans

Dave Tue, Sep 19, 2006 at 04:11 AM EST

What about Jawbreaker??? Yeah it wouldn't be in the top 10 or 20 or even 30 but definitely in the top 50.

Robert Tue, Sep 19, 2006 at 02:57 AM EST

What about Lean on me!!!
Great movie about lessons of life and sticking with something or someone..

John Furlong Tue, Sep 19, 2006 at 01:14 AM EST

The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie should definitely be included. It is a great film and includes one of the best performances every by an actress (Maggie Smith). And both Grease and Sixteen Candles should have been top tenners. You ranked Mean Girls above both of them. I agree that it's Lindsay Lohan's best film but that doesn't qualify it for any awards.

Bill in L.A. Mon, Sep 18, 2006 at 10:32 PM EST

All the Right Moves has to be on this list.

Nick Nock Mon, Sep 18, 2006 at 09:48 PM EST

Tough calls, all. I don't envy you, but two really juvenile, boner-humor flicks that made me roll are "Losin' It" and "Hollywood Knights". Perhaps they don't belong in the top 50 ... but they deserve a mention.

Michelle Mon, Sep 18, 2006 at 07:07 PM EST

West Side Story, Stand by Me, The Sand Lot - More great teenage movies

Jeremy Mon, Sep 18, 2006 at 05:51 PM EST

Ten things I hate about your list:

No 10 Things I Hate About You - you think Dazed and Confused is better than that? ? ?
No Better off Dead - you guys can forget about learning how to pick up trashy women
I don't think Teaching Mrs. Tingle has even been mentioned, but for obscure, strange and still good, it clearly should have been there.
No Buffy
No Outsiders
Leaving the Blackboard Jungle off is criminal

Okay, that's only six, but you get the picture.

DC1 Mon, Sep 18, 2006 at 04:12 PM EST

I'm the only one that thinks the 'edge' movies belong here? Haven't seen anybody else mention them. From 1979...'Over The Edge' where Matt Dillon has one of the best all time intro lines...."Hi, I'm Ritchie White...I'm on probation." And what about 'The River's Edge'? K Reeves, I Skye, et al?

Mike Mon, Sep 18, 2006 at 04:09 PM EST

BETTER OFF DEAD and WEIRD SCIENCE. No serious list about high school movies leaves these two classics out. They're the best!

AJ Mon, Sep 18, 2006 at 03:49 PM EST

Exactly who came up with this list??? Stand and Deliver but no Lean on Me.????? Doesn't a movie have to be a certain age to be considered "classic"? One Crazy Summer, Real Genius and though it has been mentioned, Red Dawn is one of my all time favorites.

Mike Mon, Sep 18, 2006 at 03:31 PM EST

Hello!

To Sir With Love isn't in your top 50?

C'mon, do you seriously believe that the huge number of "fart joke"
movies on your list can hold a candle to Sidney Poitier's performance
as the American teacher in a British inner-city school?

sean s. Mon, Sep 18, 2006 at 02:17 PM EST

ZEBRAHEAD, fantastic film.

Khalee Mon, Sep 18, 2006 at 01:39 PM EST

This list is completely culturally biased. Period. I want to take the time to shout out some BLACK classics, in no particular order:
1. Lean On Me 2. The Wood 3. The Inkwell 4. Juice 5. Cornbread, Earl, & Me...should be UP there, high in the list. At least thanks for throwin' Cooley High up there...We know y'all don't come out 2 support our movies but damn, SOME of them are good!

J Mon, Sep 18, 2006 at 01:15 PM EST

Okay guys, perhaps I’m late to the drawing board (or, in this case well-intentioned blog) but this list is just a bit skewed.

Since when did the scantily clad, whiny cheerleaders of “Bring It On” come close to Ferris in the city or even “Clueless” Cher? Now, I can understand the exclusion of “Never Been Kissed,” since none of the central characters are actually IN high school, but to not include “Weird Science” and “Three o’Clock High??

Adding insult to injury, you leave out “Footloose” and the tale of fair East Side High in “Lean on Me” – unforgivable.

As controversial as ranking a John Hughes classic below #25 on such a list may seem, in your defense, perhaps is was necessary. Glad to see that you agree “The Breakfast Club” is the strongest on the trio – HOWEVER, Jake Ryan et. al @ #48???

Lesley Mon, Sep 18, 2006 at 01:08 PM EST

The Breakfast Club was entertaining when it first came out, but it TOTALLY doesn't hold up after multiple viewings. Sixteen Candles is by far the best of the John Hughes Molly Trilogy, and deserves to be # 1 . . . or at least higher than Pretty in Pink which is way too sappy and trite. And to those who want Less Than Zero included . . . DUH - this is a list of the top 50 high school (not teen or young adult) movies. LTZ takes place during college. Omission of Valley Girl is truly criminal, especially at the expense of Harry Potter!

Mel Mon, Sep 18, 2006 at 12:23 PM EST

I think Empire Records should be on the list. Although it did not take place at a high school, the characters were all in high school and it delt with high school problems.
Also, what about Summer School? If only summer school was actually like that movie!
Ferris should be moved up for sure!!!

Rob Mon, Sep 18, 2006 at 11:46 AM EST

Did I miss, 3 O'clock high? Buddy Revell rules. Also, Weird Science wasn't too bad. What about Vision Quest?

Jorma Mon, Sep 18, 2006 at 11:15 AM EST

Weird Science, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, and My Science Project need honorable mention.

Debra Mon, Sep 18, 2006 at 09:54 AM EST

I don't see "Lean on Me" mentioned at all. I liked that film and it was about a high school, albeit focused on its principal (Morgan Freeman as Joe Clark).

Anthony from PA Mon, Sep 18, 2006 at 09:16 AM EST

How could you possibly forget one of the greatest high school football movies. Hello??? Where is "All the Right Moves"????

george Mon, Sep 18, 2006 at 07:54 AM EST

"Porkys" Laughed harder in this movie than any other.

Linda Sun, Sep 17, 2006 at 01:08 PM EST

Blackboard Jungle, The Outsiders should be in the top 25.

Karen Sat, Sep 16, 2006 at 06:54 PM EST

I am shocked that you did not include Some Kind of Wonderful. When I saw the title, "The 50 Best High School Movies Ever" on your cover, I was sure that you would be giving my favorite movie of all time it's due. At least you showed some acknowledgement of the film by throwing in a picture of Eric Stoltz as the brooding and misunderstood Keith...

rob Fri, Sep 15, 2006 at 09:32 PM EST

Great list, but did everyone forget about Pump Up the Volume? Christian Slater as Happy Harry Hardon?!?!?!?WTF?

Adam Thu, Sep 14, 2006 at 08:53 PM EST

There are, of course, many other movies that could have been on your list, but two stand out. (1) Better Off Dead, for demonstrating through exaggerated surreal situations just how surreal high school life can seem to a teen, and (2) The Last American Virgin, for being among the earlies films to embrace the notions that high school life is often tragically unfair and that a movie for young adults need not have a happy ending. When the ending credits rolled you left completely devastated for the guy!

Andrew Blankenship Thu, Sep 14, 2006 at 07:42 PM EST

Bill and Ted
The Perfect Score
Breakfast Club should be elsewhere in the top 10
Ferris Bueller and Grease should be moved up

Leslie Thu, Sep 14, 2006 at 07:41 PM EST

Even my "husband" agrees that "The Last American Virgin" should definitely have been on this list...When the song
"Just Once" by James Ingram starts to play at that crucial moment,.. it just about rips your heart out for our young hero. TALK ABOUT A HO! HO! HO!

I'd also like to add the movie that made me have a crush on Nicholas Cage for a very long time..."Valley Girl"

chris Thu, Sep 14, 2006 at 07:39 PM EST

Some of you people need to get your stuff straight. First, Hoosiers IS a college movie, watch it again, I would be betting you are wrong. It's a high school in Indiana, not about the IU team. Also, there are too many movies that have NOTHING TO DO WITH HIGH SCHOOL!!!! Empire Records, good movie...no schoooool. I agree there some definite omissions (Better Off Dead), but some of ya'll are really stretching to come up with "the movie no one else came up with".

Sail girl Thu, Sep 14, 2006 at 10:06 AM EST

Cruel Intentions
Red Dawn
Remember the Titans
Spiderman 1
Move up Ferris Buellers Day Off

Chris Wed, Sep 13, 2006 at 09:59 PM EST

FOOTLOOSE!!!
What is wrong with you people?

Chris Wed, Sep 13, 2006 at 09:55 PM EST

You missed several:
Summer of 42
Better Off Dead
Weird Science
Snow Days
Taps
Teachers
Red Dawn
The Principal
Toy Soldiers
The Faculty
The Perfect Score
Porky's
Ten Things I Hate About You

the list goes on...but obviously you can't list them all!

kaduzy Wed, Sep 13, 2006 at 06:11 PM EST

props for recognizing Clueless and Election in the top 10, but you ghuys missed the mark with The Breakfast Club as No. 1. I hate that movie. It's BORING. You also should have included School Ties somewhere on the list. How can you include some obscure documentary no one's ever heard of in the top 25 and totally miss ranking a movie that touches so poignantly on prejudice and is an excellent depiction of the high school mob mentality. Also, Matt Damon's character in this movie should have been listed as one of the best bullies, and Alan Ruck's character in Ferris Bueller should have been listed as one of the most loyal sidekicks. Speaking of Ferris, how could it be number TEN?? It's TEN TIMES better than the freaking Breakfast Club!

Chris Wed, Sep 13, 2006 at 04:42 PM EST

Shame on EW for not including Kids, Footloose, Freaky Friday (2003), RISKY BUSINESS, All the Right Moves, The OUTSIDERS, Weird Science. Come on!

JC Loophole Wed, Sep 13, 2006 at 01:09 PM EST

Where is Weird Science!?!?!

Doreen Wed, Sep 13, 2006 at 01:04 PM EST

I must be older than most readers. Sal Mineo, not Sam Mineo played Plato alongside James Dean in "Rebel Without a Cause". He was murdered in 1976 in a botched mugging.

Scott Wed, Sep 13, 2006 at 12:57 PM EST

Where's Blackboard Jungle. Also, Mr Holland's Opus.

Kyle Wed, Sep 13, 2006 at 12:14 PM EST

Hoosiers is a movie about a COLLEGE basketball team.

Also I agree that Vision Quest should have been there.

Heather Wed, Sep 13, 2006 at 11:38 AM EST

I am totally shocked that the movie that includes something from almost everymovie listed and forgotten..."Not Another Teen Movie" was left off the list and not even mentioned. Absolutely hilarious! I have such a long list of movies that were forgotten I can't list them all but definitely Varsity Blues and Footloose. I went through the entire list thinking Footloose would be #1 and it didn't even make the list?!? And does EW have something against Julia Stiles...many of her movies were left off and they should be included...Save the Last Dance, 10 Things I Hate About You, O. I also must add "The Wood", granted it's real time isn't in high school...but most of the movie is flashbacks to high school and totally relatable, I love this movie. Empire Records and Goonies are also classics that should have been included, & high.

John Berard Wed, Sep 13, 2006 at 08:56 AM EST

Two fantastic movies were left out. The first one is " The Last American Virgin " ..Steve Antin was great in this film. Also forgot was " Losin ' It " from 1983...this one also needs to be on the top 50 list. That movie about the "Breakfast Club" was a real bore.....

KC Wed, Sep 13, 2006 at 08:23 AM EST

How is it possible that "The Breakfast Club" ranked #1? That movie was thoroughly unwatchable when I was in high school, and that was only five years after its release. It's aged about as well as its cast members' careers.

"Dazed and Confused" in the top three? That's the only movie that has put me to sleep every single time I've tried to watch it.

How on earth is "Ferris Bueller" ranked below "Election" and "Clueless"? I like both of those movies, but neither compare to "Ferris." And how could "Bring It On" beat out the likes of "The Karate Kid" and "Bye Bye Birdie"?

Now, for the omissions... Where's "Blackboard Jungle"? Where's "10 Things I Hate About You"? Where on earth is "Better Off Dead," the movie that made a 9-year-old in Louisiana can't wait to grow up and find a boyfriend to take her skiing?

And how about "Heaven Help Us," a classic Andrew McCarthy pick? Speaking of prep school boys, where's "School Ties"? I can't believe "EW" missed this poignant film with an early Damon-Affleck pairing.

Still, some of the picks were inspired -- "Heathers," "Clueless," "Ferris Bueller," and even "One of the Guys." That one still cracks me up!

Simone Wed, Sep 13, 2006 at 08:02 AM EST

I'm surprised "The Perfect Score" didn't make it into this list. Scarlett Johansson is awesome, as well as Chris Evans and the whole ensemble, not to mention the excellent soundtrack (specially "Last Way Out Of Here", by Paloalto).

bm Wed, Sep 13, 2006 at 07:46 AM EST

Pretty good list but Pump Up The Volume is a glaring omission.

It's a shame you ignored foreign movies too!

Pauly D Wed, Sep 13, 2006 at 07:45 AM EST

Where is Better Off Dead? This movie is an easy Top 10er! What about the Goonies? Come on, get Mean Girls out of there.

Pauly D Wed, Sep 13, 2006 at 07:42 AM EST

What about Empire Records? This deals with teens and issues. Its a comedic drama. Choc full of stars like Liv Tyler, Renee Zellweger, Anthony LaPaglia, Ethan Embry. If Mean Girls is ranked this movie should be in the top 50, at the very least. Just my opinion.

Brian Wed, Sep 13, 2006 at 07:07 AM EST

Pump up The Volume definately should have been on there.
Better off Dead, Some Kind of Wonderful, The Principal, Lean on Me, Dangerous Minds, Blackboard Jungle, 10 Things I hate About You, Footloose and I definately agree on Battle Royale (very underrated movie)!

SadBetty Wed, Sep 13, 2006 at 03:45 AM EST

Where is PUMP UP THE VOLUME???? Can't believe you left that one out... Sure it wouldn't deserve number one, but hey, it was good, and even today, when I watch it, I AM 16 again, and I wanna scream, and dance, and kick some ass....
THE BREAKFAST CLUB simply HAD to be #1, I wouldn't have had it any other way :-)

Dave Wed, Sep 13, 2006 at 03:36 AM EST

I can't believe The Breakfast Club is #1. It is the only movie I can think of that I loved when it came out and now I find it unwatchable. Switch it and Sixteen Candles. Add 10 Things. Add Better Off Dead. Add Vision Quest.

Paula Wed, Sep 13, 2006 at 03:19 AM EST

I think "10 Things I Hate About You" and "Never Been Kissed" should be added to the list. Otherwise, a good and fun article.

mm Wed, Sep 13, 2006 at 12:50 AM EST

missing: pump up the volume & some kind of wonderful.

jillie Wed, Sep 13, 2006 at 12:43 AM EST

can you do a top 100?50 just doesn't cut it!!!all the 80's teen movies rule this chart!

jillie Wed, Sep 13, 2006 at 12:31 AM EST

wow!there are some good ones here...some i even forgot!i have two matt dillion movies-his first,"over the edge",where the teens create an uprising in their master planned community and my total favorite,"little darlings" with kristy mcnichol & tatum o'neal.who can forget the summer camp where the rich girl goes against the poor girl to see who loses her virginity first?matt dillion gets with kristy!anyone?anyone?it is teenage rebellion at its finest!thanx for all that made the top 50!great memories with each one!!!!well done,ew!

Bernie B Wed, Sep 13, 2006 at 12:12 AM EST

Of all the films mentioned, suprised nobody remembered "Breaking Away". Instant classic IMHO.

Steve from Tucson Tue, Sep 12, 2006 at 11:04 PM EST

Okay, I looked at the whole set of comments and wondered about one movie that not one single person even thought about--- BILL AND TED'S EXCELLANT ADVENTURE. How can the likes of obscure Australian films, rock and Roll High School and the horribly overrated American Pie get such accolades when this movie continues to be forgotten. Sickening, just absolutely sickening. And then Brick, another overrated film, gets on the list and it hasn't even been out for year when surely it will be just some flash in a pan. Clueless was also way too high and Friday Night Lights is an abomination if you have read the "real" story. Some other omissions....

BETTER OFF DEAD

3 O'CLOCK HIGH

MYSTERIOUS SKIN (at least, in a post high school sense)

THE PERFECT SCORE

THE CRAFT

james Tue, Sep 12, 2006 at 10:29 PM EST

'beautiful thing' is a better gay-boys-in-the-u.k. movie than 'get real,' but i guess since less of the action actually takes place in school 'get real' becomes a more logical choice. still...

and where's 'the last american virgin'? it's at least 5 of your top 50 rolled into one - and while it's quality is totally dubious, few of these films get across the total desolation of high school so completely in the end...

Annie F. Tue, Sep 12, 2006 at 10:22 PM EST

My personal fav is Crime and Punishment in Suburbia starring Vincent Kartheiser and Monica Keena (2000). Murder/self defense, dating the footballer, attentions of the creepy/weird guy, absentee mother, abusive stepfather...this has it all and is well done. Disturbing but Very cool.

Jessica Tue, Sep 12, 2006 at 10:20 PM EST

I'm kind of surprised American Pie wasn't higher on the list. Missing from the list: Some Kind of Wonderful, Less Than Zero, Grease. Not sure why Bring It On even made this list. Other than that, great job! Nice call on Election. That's one of my all time faves.

D Tue, Sep 12, 2006 at 09:36 PM EST

Hello? PUMP UP THE VOLUME, anyone? ANYONE??

Christopher Minjares Tue, Sep 12, 2006 at 09:22 PM EST

What about Three O'clock High? The rare movie where the protaganist actually beats up the bully.

Ashley Tue, Sep 12, 2006 at 08:28 PM EST

What about SOME KIND OF WONDERFUL?! ALthough this is a John Hughes production, it actually takes the risk of not starring any of the "brat pack" but yet stars other just as capable and charismatic actors, Eric Stolz and Mary Stuart Masterson. This is a real movie, with a real plot that many teenagers can relate to-i know i can.

william Tue, Sep 12, 2006 at 07:52 PM EST

what about "rivers edge"

"Encino man" or the great "Summer School"- probably one of the most underrated highschool films of all time.

vee Tue, Sep 12, 2006 at 07:32 PM EST

Vision Quest...what high schooler from any sport could forget 'Louden Swain's' determination to face 'Schute' on the mat and reach a goal everyone else believes too crazy for him to have even set along the way finding his 'place in the circle.' This is a great feel good movie and come on, how hot was Linda Fiorentino as every adolescents 'older chick' fantasy. Madonna cameo to boot. I still laugh when watching the film with it's witty dialouge.
Tanneran: I think you're dehydrated.
Louden Swain: No, I'm just the victim of a screwed-up nitrogen imbalance. Plus, I think I've contracted priapism.
Tanneran: What's priapism?
Louden Swain: It's a disease of a constant erection... It's not funny, believe me! The girl of my dreams lives under my own roof, but she thinks I'm just a kid, a dumb jock, all of which is more or less true. I'm dying, Mr. Tanneran, just like that girl in the poem... only quicker, and with a hard-on.

Chris Tue, Sep 12, 2006 at 06:40 PM EST

I know, I know, it has been mentioned like 20 times already, but Better Off Dead is a HUGE ommission. I can't beleive I'm gonna say this either, but,...what about TeenWolf?

Austin Tue, Sep 12, 2006 at 06:25 PM EST

Good list. I enjoyed it but Sixteen Candles deserves better then #49. It should come close to the top of the list. Although looking at it now, it is a bit racist, misogynistic and homophobic, but it's still a very entertaining movie and one of my favorites.

Owen Tue, Sep 12, 2006 at 06:10 PM EST

Just wanted to add to the "what, no '10 Things I Hate About You'?" chorus. Totally reinvigorated the high-school genre with its self-assured post-modern approach, not to mention making stars out of the two leads.

mon Mon, Sep 11, 2006 at 12:23 PM EST

I loved Hiding Out, too!! I would say Heathers is probably my personal #1 followed by Sixteen Candles and probably every other John Hughes film of that genre. My other faves are Grease, Buffy, and Save the Last Dance and Better Off Dead and The Karate Kid. There are just so many that are sentimental favorites.

While I haven't seen every movie on the list, I agree with someone else about Dazed and Confused- I couldn't finish it. I think I need to rewatch it because i remember a distinct boredom.

David Mon, Sep 11, 2006 at 03:04 AM EST

The Wanderers - Philip Kauffman's cult classic from 1979 is sorely missing.
Some Kind of Wonderful - Another John Hughes movie, but also very good.
Risky Business should have been in the top ten if not the top five.
Ferris Bueller's Day Off should have been number 1, IMO.

freedug Sun, Sep 10, 2006 at 08:50 PM EST

Pretty good list, though Three o'clock High shoulda been there. the Girl Next Door too... Oh, and for all the folks lamenting Less than Zero, that was a college movie, not high school (old friends reuniting after being away at school...pick up the book!)

Janet Sun, Sep 10, 2006 at 06:53 PM EST

To the person who wrote the great paean to "Never Been Kissed": We can take comfort in the fact that they did include Michael Vartan as Sam Coulson on the "Favorite Teachers" list.

dirrty1 Sun, Sep 10, 2006 at 06:13 PM EST

Fast Times At Ridgemont High
The Breakfast Club
Clueless

camille Sun, Sep 10, 2006 at 06:00 PM EST

I like all the picks although Sixteen Candles should have been in the top 10. I think LEAN ON ME should have made the list. A high school movie unlike all the rest.

Adrian Hickman Sun, Sep 10, 2006 at 12:14 AM EST

While realizing that my guilty pleasures high school movies wouldn’t even come close to the list [think Mark Harmon in SUMMER SCHOOL], I am disappointed in one omission.

Even without the recent passing of Glenn Ford, I can’t see how BLACKBOARD JUNGLE didn’t make the list. This film, with the use of ROCK AROUND THE CLOCK, set the tone for the “juvenile delinquent” films of the 50’s, while being the first real signpost in the birth and image of Rock ‘n’ Roll music. The look of the film fostered the image , or stereotype, of the inner city public school for years to come. The real or imagined “riots in the theaters” as the opening soundtrack blared made Rock ‘n’ Roll the instant rebel music.

In addition to Glenn Ford, it contained such future Hollywood names as Sidney Poitier, Vic Morrow, Paul Mazursky, and Jameel Farah [nee Jamie Farr]. Even though it may not top the list, it easily deserves inclusion.

Lee Sat, Sep 9, 2006 at 07:44 PM EST

"I want my 2 dollars!"--for leaving "Better Off Dead" off this list.

ChiliGurl Sat, Sep 9, 2006 at 07:22 PM EST

My choices (I'm Generation X) are: The Breakfast Club, Sixteen Candles, Pretty In Pink and Less Than Zero. It's almost hard to beleive that my generation is pushing, or already is 40. We WERE The Kids In America....but no more. ;-)

dave Sat, Sep 9, 2006 at 03:56 PM EST

leaving the blackboard jungle off was genuinely odd, but I guess you can't have anything.

Kat Sat, Sep 9, 2006 at 12:25 PM EST

What I want to know is, does EW get a kickback on these things? Here's The Duckie version of one of the best known teen movies coming out on DVD, and so EW decides to put out a list of teen movies. These lists are always tied to something just out that's making a promotional push. I would hope that EW gets some sort of reward for helping them out.

Adrian Hickman Sat, Sep 9, 2006 at 11:01 AM EST

While realizing that my guilty pleasures high school movies wouldn’t even come close to the list [think Mark Harmon in SUMMER SCHOOL], I am disappointed in one omission.

Even without the recent passing of Glenn Ford, I can’t see how BLACKBOARD JUNGLE didn’t make the list. This film, with the use of ROCK AROUND THE CLOCK, set the tone for the “juvenile delinquent” films of the 50’s, while being the first real signpost in the birth and image of Rock ‘n’ Roll music. The look of the film fostered the image , or stereotype, of the inner city public school for years to come. The real or imagined “riots in the theaters” as the opening soundtrack blared made Rock ‘n’ Roll the instant rebel music.

In addition to Glenn Ford, it contained such future Hollywood names as Sidney Poitier, Vic Morrow, Paul Mazursky, and Jameel Farah [nee Jamie Farr]. Even though it may not top the list, it easily deserves inclusion.

Alexei Sat, Sep 9, 2006 at 12:37 AM EST

"Mean Girls" is deserving off a spot, and one in the top 10. For this new generation of teenagers, "Mean Girls" is our "Breakfast Club." Maybe you don't understand that, but it's unbelievable how many lines from that movie have slipped into our lexicon.

Jasper Fri, Sep 8, 2006 at 11:48 PM EST

Glad my favorites (Clueless, Pretty in Pink, Rebel, and Election) made the list but I don't think Mean Girls was that good or as impactful as the other films. Although, I did love Rachel McAdams I think the script floundered by the end. I don't know if Breakfast Club is No.1 either. I'd probably give it to fast times. Dazed and Confused was also way too high on the list, but still deserves to be included.

trw1570 Fri, Sep 8, 2006 at 07:00 PM EST

I agree that 10 Things and Better Off Dead belonged on the list. My number one is Clueless followed very closely by Ferris Bueller. Mean Girls does belong on the list, although I don't know if I'd have placed it as high. Three of the top four movies, Rebel Without a Cause, Dazed and Confused and Fast Times all bored me to tears. I didn't even get all the way through Dazed and Confused but it may have been due to the McConaughey factor.

Brian Fri, Sep 8, 2006 at 06:32 PM EST

I agree with most of the list. The Breakfast Club deserved to be #1: I love that movie! However:

I agree with most. Sixteen Candles was WAY TOO LOW on the list. Harry Potter & the Goblet of Fire should not even be on the list. It is not a real HS movie. Mean Girls is not that bad of a movie. I like Mean Girls.

MIMI Fri, Sep 8, 2006 at 06:05 PM EST

"16 Candles" at 49?? Come on! It and "Say Anything" should both be in the top 5. I always thought the perfect guy would be a combination of Jake Ryan and Lloyd Dobler. And what about the movie 'Little Darlings"...Randy (Matt Dillon) was (and still is) hot!!

Alicia Fri, Sep 8, 2006 at 05:54 PM EST

I completely agree with EW's number one choice. I've seen The Breakfast Club so many times I can recite lines from it effortlessly. The same is true for many of the other movies on the list: Heathers (to this day, I still wince when I hear Heather Chandler say "F--- me gently with a chainsaw"; ugh, the imagery), Sixteen Candles (I agree with many of you that it was too low on the list), Ferris Bueller (how can you not love the parade scene?), and Grease.

Glaring ommissions: Some Kind of Wonderful (on the strength of the ending alone) and Better Off Dead (Everybody knows "Two dollars!" How about "Now that's a real shame when folks be throwin' away a perfectly good white boy like that!").

Although I'm not sure if it should be on the top 50 of all time list, I always loved the movie Hiding Out. Jon Cryer was adorable in that movie. It could have received an honorable mention, if y'all were handing them out.

Jason Fri, Sep 8, 2006 at 05:44 PM EST

And when it comes down to it, usually the best high school movies are the ones we saw in high school, which explains Levente's love of Varsity Blues (there's no other explanation). Liked the inclusion of Hoop Dreams.

Jason Fri, Sep 8, 2006 at 05:26 PM EST

I'm surprised with all the "Mean Girls" haters. Don't let your hatred of Lindsay Lohan get in the way of an exceptional high school movie. I was happy to see "Election" rated as high as it was - it's my #1 - but I was still surprised to see it get it's due. I agree with many that "Sixteen Candles" should be much higher. It is the best of the John Hughes movies and holds up today. "Better Off Dead" also resonates today and should have been included. But it's all relative.

Joanna Fri, Sep 8, 2006 at 05:15 PM EST

Mean Girls is my personal favorite. And Mean Creek (if it counts as a high school movie) should've been included.

Ellen Fri, Sep 8, 2006 at 04:42 PM EST

How about "BETTER OFF DEAD"
All I can say is "I WANT MY TWO DOLLARS!"

Matt Fri, Sep 8, 2006 at 04:01 PM EST

Not Another Teen Movie lampoons so many movies on this list. It's hard not to consider it one of the best...

Stephanie Travitsky Fri, Sep 8, 2006 at 02:26 PM EST

Oh yeah and I almost forgot, Some Kind of Wonderful. Btw: good call on Angus.

Jennifer Fri, Sep 8, 2006 at 02:25 PM EST

Footloose and Some Kind of Wonderful definitely need to be inserted in this list.

Stephanie Travitsky Fri, Sep 8, 2006 at 02:24 PM EST

Less than Zero was about what happened to friends after high school, and I would not say The Last American Virgin because it was cheezy. I would however have picked Valley Girl, Class, All the Right Movies, Johnny B. Good, Summer School, and Tomboy which are not on this list.

Kylerr Fri, Sep 8, 2006 at 02:19 PM EST

Angus! Angus! Angus!
Angus is a classic movie that never got the recognition that it deserved.

Jennifer Fri, Sep 8, 2006 at 02:09 PM EST

Footloose should have definitely been on the list. Bring it On and Mean Girls were included, but not Footloose? I could kind of always relate to that movie, as my small-town Texas high school didn't have prom, and still to this day does not, because of the dancing issue and being in the Bible-belt. I'm glad Sixteen Candles was 49 on the list. I've never cared for that movie. Molly Ringwald was cute, but, let's face it, in real life, she could have never landed a hottie like Jake Ryan.

dma69 Fri, Sep 8, 2006 at 02:05 PM EST

Good choices:

Election (one of the better recent high school films)
Say Anything (should be higher on the list)
Back to the Future (my personal favorite, also should be higher on the list)
Rock 'N' Roll High School (Long live the Ramones)

Questionable choices:

Harry Potter/Goblet of Fire (What??? This is a high school movie?)
Napoleon Dynamite (I will never, ever get this film. I haven't laughed once. What's so funny about boring nerds? The only good thing about this movie are the opening credits.)
Donnie Darko (That bunny gives me nightmares.)

Tony Fri, Sep 8, 2006 at 02:03 PM EST

Great list but how can Francis Ford Coppola's masterpiece, "The Outsiders" not make the list? This usually makes most people's top 10 list.

Alex W Fri, Sep 8, 2006 at 02:02 PM EST

"Welcome to the Dollhouse" was all at once one of the funniest, yet most unflinchingly honest looks at school, adolesence, and the realities of nerdhood. Watching the opening scene where Dawn is looking for a safe place to sit in the cafeteria for me was like a Vietnam vet watching Platoon! This should have been in the top 5!

Linda Oliver Fri, Sep 8, 2006 at 01:56 PM EST

How could you forget Blackboard Jungle. Steamy, passionate, and a break thru for Sidney Poitier.

Should have gotten a mention, in light of Glenn Ford's recent passing.

Blackpower Fri, Sep 8, 2006 at 01:52 PM EST

I know its deep, but what about Larry Clarke's "KIDS". If you haven't seen it, make sure you do!!!!

Kim Fri, Sep 8, 2006 at 01:48 PM EST

How you can create this list and leave off "Less Than Zero" and "Footloose" is beyond me! At least "Some Kind of Wonderful" is mentioned in the John Hughes insert. And come on....Sixteen Candles just barely making the list at 49!!

trim Fri, Sep 8, 2006 at 01:44 PM EST

cRAIG is right! What is Harry Potter doing on the list! That's a kid movie for 10 year olds! LAST AMERICAN VIRGIN & THE GIRL NEXT DOOR should be there. Take off Potter, Mean Girls, and Boyz in the Hood. Boyz will never be a High School movie. Its nothing HS about it! Also, any movie in Michael Anthony Hall starred must be included. Wierd Science or at least SOME KIND OF WONDERFUL!

Carrie Fri, Sep 8, 2006 at 01:33 PM EST

How could you leave FOOTLOOSE off your list. It's the perfect high school movie. It's one of those movies you can watch over and over again. It would surely be in my top 10. Any movie with Molly Ringwald should be on the top of the list. Grease is a classic and should #1.

blackpower Fri, Sep 8, 2006 at 01:32 PM EST

What a horrible list! Sean Juan and Mark in NYC had it right. Where's THREE O'CLOCK HIGH? Say Anything #11? Although a horrible list, still a great read!!

John Fri, Sep 8, 2006 at 12:49 PM EST

Carrie

Anon Fri, Sep 8, 2006 at 12:25 PM EST

What about Taps and Red Dawn?

Stephanie Travitsky Fri, Sep 8, 2006 at 12:16 PM EST

I would have also said "Saved" and 3 O'Clock High.

jazzy Fri, Sep 8, 2006 at 12:07 PM EST

Never Been Kissed....my fave.

cRAIG Fri, Sep 8, 2006 at 11:50 AM EST

Real Genius is a great call, but it's college.
and i can't believe i forgot Better Off Dead...

RBlues Fri, Sep 8, 2006 at 11:21 AM EST

Sixteen Candles is the #1 High School Movie -- EVER!
I'm 40 years old and I STILL "heart" Jake Ryan! The best times ever are when my three daughters and I cuddle-up on a Sunday afternoon (or Friday night) and watch this movie together.

Stephanie Travitsky Fri, Sep 8, 2006 at 11:16 AM EST

My dad still laughs at Porky's because of this line:
"We could put up wanted posters all over school: Have you seen this prick?"

This movie was the first and I believe only to have its own video game. The object was to cross the county line and help Pee Wee blow up Porky's bar.

EW pretty much had it right and I would have argued "10 things (Taming of the Shrew)" and "She's all that (Pygmailion)", only because Just One of the Guys was the 80's version of "The twelfth knight (way before "She's the man) just as "Clueless" was "Emma".

I still say that The Breakfast Club should be made into a Broadway play. BTW: what happened to Weird Science, and Real Genius?

alex Fri, Sep 8, 2006 at 11:15 AM EST

there is nothing about "sixteen candles" that is good. it may very well be my least favorite movie ever. - alex -

jen Fri, Sep 8, 2006 at 11:10 AM EST

Besides the criminal omission of 10 Things I Hate About You (and the ridiculous inclusion of Mean Girls) where oh where is Never Been Kissed? The ultimate high school flick - unpopular dork gets to go back and swap her horrendous high school experience for every girls dream - get in with the popular crowd & date the hot teacher! (PS Valley Girl & Some Kind of Wonderful also missing!)

Levente Fri, Sep 8, 2006 at 11:07 AM EST

But, I did enjoy the list aside from that major oversight!

Levente Fri, Sep 8, 2006 at 11:05 AM EST

I am VERY upset and astounded that an entertainment publication such as yourself would include Friday Night Lights over VARSITY BLUES!! When I started the list, VB immediately popped into my head! I was in high school when Varsity Blues came out and it was our anthem. Everyone had the soundtrack and EVERYONE knew the lines recited in sex ed class (can I type that??). Besides- James Van der Beek was Dawson the same time he made the film... he was the epitome of the high school boy! FNL was fine, but it does not hold a candle to Varsity as far as a movie about Southern football and teen angst... you can't tell me none of you tried, or at least fanticized about, the whipped cream bikini!! For shame!

Sean Juan Fri, Sep 8, 2006 at 10:44 AM EST

Also, where's "Battle Royale"? :)

Dave Fri, Sep 8, 2006 at 10:39 AM EST

Porky's, The Outsiders, Footloose, Better Off Dead, Cruel Intentions, and 10 Things I Hate About You could all have made the list as well. Nonetheless, great job!

Rob Fri, Sep 8, 2006 at 10:39 AM EST

No way "Sixteen Candles" should be #48! That's outrageous. Also, where is "Last American Virgin?"

jmg Fri, Sep 8, 2006 at 10:35 AM EST

Oh yeah! How could you leave Valley Girl off the list? Ultimate high school issues: sex, stereotypes, music, even has a prom scene. Come on!!

Dave Fri, Sep 8, 2006 at 10:32 AM EST

Loved, loved, LOVED this list! While I disagreed with the ranking of some of the movies (I agree Sixteen Candles should be higher), I agreed with every film on this list. I knew what the top three would be before I even started reading, and I liked EW's broad take on each movie. I now have an overwhelming urge to pop in my Dazed and Confused DVD, sit back, and relive my teenage years: angst, desperation, and care-free joy all at once.

Dan Fri, Sep 8, 2006 at 10:28 AM EST

Now, I can handle "10 Things I Hate About You" and "Varsity Blues" not making the list- it sucks, but such is life. But no "Better Off Dead"- are you kidding me!?!? What'll it cost to get EW to fix this list....say, "Two dollars?"

cRAIG Fri, Sep 8, 2006 at 10:21 AM EST

In: Pump Up the Volume
Racing With the Moon
The Girl Next Door
Go
Out: She's All That (stunk)
Napolean Dynamite (we'll see how well this ages)
Harry Potter?

Korie Fri, Sep 8, 2006 at 10:09 AM EST

Okay, your list sucked! Sixteen Candles, Ferris & Election should have been 1, 2 & 3. No ifs, ands, or buts about it!

Glow Fri, Sep 8, 2006 at 10:08 AM EST

There are def. some issues with this list. Mean Girls doesn not deserve to be on here. Second of all there are so many that didn't make it. I agreed with some of them, but there are def. some favorites that got left out. One of my favorites that I believe deserved to be on this list is Varsity Blues.

kk in nyc Fri, Sep 8, 2006 at 10:01 AM EST

Some Kind of Wonderful...how was that left off the list????

Michael S Fri, Sep 8, 2006 at 09:56 AM EST

"The Faculty" was enjoyable, and not just because of Josh "Hot"nett...And I agree with Billy about the original slasher-type movies. You should definitely have had, for instance, "Nightmare on Elm St." on the list. Classic!

Jakeem Fri, Sep 8, 2006 at 09:51 AM EST

How can "Spider-Man" be left off the list? After all, it IS the ultimate high school fantasy. Remember, Peter Parker was a teen who couldn't get a date -- but he could save the world!
Also, how about more props for "She's All That," starring Freddie Prinze Jr. and Rachael Leigh Cook? It should have made the list just for the choreographed prom dance sequence featuring Usher, the luscious Jodi Lyn O'Keefe and Fatboy Slim's "The Rockefeller Skank."
Then there's Martha Coolidge's "Valley Girl," the 1980s comedy about different worlds headlined by a very young Nicolas Cage and the much-missed Deborah Foreman.
And let's not forget the Julia Stiles high school tripleheader -- "10 Things I Hate About You," "Save the Last Dance" and "O." And when you consider the two latter movies, have there been many young actresses as brave as she?

newbie Fri, Sep 8, 2006 at 09:48 AM EST

Great idea to kick off the season! So many great ones! Personal faves: Election,Ferris,Clueless,Fast Times& Bring it On. Tons I haven't seen.Now I have a great list to add to my Netflix queue!!

Amber Fri, Sep 8, 2006 at 09:43 AM EST

Girls Just Want to Have Fun is my #1! Ferris Bueller's Day Off is a close second.

jmg Fri, Sep 8, 2006 at 09:43 AM EST

The Breakfast Club. I graduated from HS in 1985 and 21 years later and I still laugh at it.

Liza Fri, Sep 8, 2006 at 09:32 AM EST

Summer School.

Rahul Fri, Sep 8, 2006 at 09:31 AM EST

Your top three kick major butt -good job

Billy Fri, Sep 8, 2006 at 09:28 AM EST

So funny, I wrote my senior thesis on Fast Times, Risky Business (should have been WAY higher on the list--I mean really, behind Bring it on??), Breakfast Club and Ferris. Good times.

That said, a lot of issues with this one. Mean Girls should have been far down on the list, if mentioned at all. It was basically Clueless for the dim-witted and too snarky for its own good. Also, I'm baffled at the choice to include Scream but none of the old-school slashers (Halloween, Nightmare etc.) that inspired it. Boyz n the Hood is stretching the definition of "high-school movie" a bit much. And, again, there's no reason for Risky Business to be so low...

Big Momma Fri, Sep 8, 2006 at 09:24 AM EST

Happy to see SPLENDOR IN THE GRASS included on the list. Although tame by today's standards, it packed a wallop back in the day.

Mary Fri, Sep 8, 2006 at 09:20 AM EST

Another high school movie that should definetly be on the list is Footloose.

Talking Moviezzz Fri, Sep 8, 2006 at 09:19 AM EST

Pretty good list. I went in thinking of the titles that they probably wouldn't have, and most of them were there. (Except for maybe GREASE 2)

I would argue that CAN'T BUY ME LOVE is too low. It probably is one of the more realistic 80's high school films. At least more realistic than the sort of fairy tale-ish John Hughes films (which I like, but CBML felt more real).

Also would say THREE O'CLOCK HIGH deserved to be on the list. Although after the opening ten minutes, it goes downhill quite a bit.

And LAST AMERICAN VIRGIN, but that is quite possibly the most depressing film ever made. So, I don't think EW wants to recommend it to others, only to get lawsuits to cover medication because of how the ending made them feel.

Heather Fri, Sep 8, 2006 at 09:17 AM EST

My high school movie that didn't make the list (and I understand why, but still) was "Buffy The Vampire Slayer". The witchy prom princess! The cluelessness! The cameos (look for Ben Affleck especially)! Pee Wee Herman! Luke Perry with a soul patch! And despite obvious medling by the studios, you could tell where the TV series got it's heart from. One of the best bad teenage movies, for sure.

Anna Fri, Sep 8, 2006 at 09:12 AM EST

Grease and My Bodygaurd were both on there.

I missed Cruel Intentions and Ten Things I Hate About You though.

Mary Fri, Sep 8, 2006 at 09:01 AM EST

I agree about Ten Things being left off is a shame. Also, I don't understand how Porky's didn't make it on the list.

Paul U. Fri, Sep 8, 2006 at 08:54 AM EST

I know it's technically set in junior high, but what about Welcome to the Dollhouse? It's equal parts horrifying and hilarious, just like jr. high/high school, at least for me! And also, where is the Last American Virgin?

Tess Fri, Sep 8, 2006 at 08:46 AM EST

Whoops, you did....mea culpa!!

jcoop Fri, Sep 8, 2006 at 08:41 AM EST

the top three are perfection! although, dazed and confused will always be number one, not just as a highschool movie but as the best movie of all time!

Tess Fri, Sep 8, 2006 at 08:40 AM EST

How could you not mention GREASE ?

sme Fri, Sep 8, 2006 at 08:30 AM EST

No Ten Things I Hate About You? No My Bodyguard? What about The Outsiders - is there a teen movie with a better cast than that? Are you kidding? I suppose I can forgive you leaving off Pump Up the Volume and She's All That, but to put Say Anything at 11? Be serious!

Sean Juan Fri, Sep 8, 2006 at 08:26 AM EST

How does "Three O' Clock High" not make this list?

mark in nyc Fri, Sep 8, 2006 at 08:26 AM EST

What?! No Three O'Clock high? If ever there was a movie about High School and the angst of not being the biggest kid in school this is it.

Nathan Fri, Sep 8, 2006 at 08:02 AM EST

For me, the most ridiculous ommission was All the Right Moves. How does that not make the list?