Prom marks one of the final markers between the carefree days of teendom and young adulthood. The often anticipated night of revelry is spoken about with reverence, with many teens considering prom a make-or-break moment in their young lives.
Is it any wonder that such a rite of passage among teenagers has become such popular Hollywood fodder? Filmmakers have their own takes on the prom narrative, and no movie about high school seems complete without a prom reference. In honor of prom season, here’s a list of popular prom-themed movies.
“Pretty in Pink” (1986): One of the many movies of this era starring the “Brat Pack,” this film tells the tale of love and social cliques in an American high school. Working-class Andie (Molly Ringwald) must choose between loving a childhood sweetheart (Jon Cryer) or a rich playboy (Andrew McCarthy). Notable prom details include a handcrafted dress that Andie makes and a prom night confession of love.
“Never Been Kissed” (1999): Drew Barrymore stars as Josie, a journalist who goes undercover in a high school to uncover a newsworthy story angle, only to become embroiled in her own story when her English teacher develops feelings for her. The memorable prom scene includes students dressed up as famous couples throughout history.
“10 Things I Hate About You” (1999): This is a modern retelling of Shakespeare’s “The Taming of the Shrew.” Pretty and popular Bianca (Larisa Oleynik) isn’t allowed to attend prom unless her ill-tempered older sister Kat (Julia Stiles) attends as well. Bianca’s boyfriend Joey (Andrew Keegan) bets outcast Patrick (Heath Ledger) that he can’t get Kat to be his prom date, all in an effort to attend the big night. The band Letters to Cleo makes a cameo at the prom.
“She’s All That” (1999): Clearly 1999 was big on prom movies — and bets as well. Popular school jock Zack (Freddie Prinze Jr.) takes on a bet to make over the high school’s biggest nerd, Laney (Rachael Leigh Cook), into prom queen. The Sixpence None the Richer song “Kiss Me” features prominently as the backing track during the moment when Laney makes her makeover debut.
“High School Musical 3” (2008): The third in the series of these Disney hits, the film follows Troy (Zac Efron) and the rest of the East High crew as they try to navigate senior year. A memorable scene includes Gabriella (Vanessa Hudgens) ditching prom after singing about how it would be a night to remember.
“Twilight” (2008): Socially awkward high schooler Bella (Kristen Stewart) falls in love with suave, yet undead Edward (Robert Pattinson). Edward is decades old, so he’s been around the high school block before, but takes Bella to prom nonetheless. They eventually dance underneath a twinkle light-encased gazebo.
“Prom” (2011): Nova (Aimee Teegarden) faces a battle of wills when she is attracted to Jesse (Thomas McDonell), who stands in the way of her perfect prom.
Many movies feature pivotal prom scenes, showcasing their takes on this key rite of teenage passage.
