Starting at a new school can be a daunting experience, filled with challenges, opportunities, and the quest for belonging. This curated list of films explores the theme of new students navigating the complex social hierarchies and personal growth that come with being the 'new kid'. These stories not only entertain but also resonate with anyone who has ever felt like an outsider, offering insights into resilience, friendship, and self-discovery.
The Breakfast Club (1985)
Description: Although not explicitly about a new student, the film captures the essence of different social groups coming together, which is often the experience of a new student.
Fact: The film was shot in a single location, the library of Maine North High School in Illinois.
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Heathers (1988)
Description: Veronica Sawyer, a new member of the popular clique known as the Heathers, finds herself in a dark comedy of teenage angst and rebellion.
Fact: The film was initially considered too dark for release, but it has since become a cult classic.
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Clueless (1995)
Description: Cher Horowitz, a popular high school student, takes a new student, Tai, under her wing, leading to unexpected changes in their social circles.
Fact: The film's fashion and slang have had a lasting impact on pop culture.
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10 Things I Hate About You (1999)
Description: Cameron James, a new student, tries to date Bianca Stratford but must first get her sister, Kat, to go out with someone, leading to a comedic and romantic entanglement.
Fact: The film is loosely based on Shakespeare's "The Taming of the Shrew."
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Never Been Kissed (1999)
Description: Josie Geller, a 25-year-old journalist, goes undercover as a high school student, experiencing the highs and lows of teenage life.
Fact: Drew Barrymore, who plays Josie, also produced the film.
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The New Guy (2002)
Description: Dizzy Harrison reinvents himself at a new school after being expelled, becoming the coolest kid on campus with a new identity.
Fact: The film features cameos from several musicians, including Tommy Lee and Henry Rollins.
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Mean Girls (2004)
Description: Cady Heron, a homeschooled girl, enters public high school for the first time, navigating the treacherous waters of teenage social dynamics.
Fact: The film was inspired by Rosalind Wiseman's book "Queen Bees and Wannabes," which explores the social dynamics of high school girls.
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Easy A (2010)
Description: Olive Penderghast, a high school student, starts a rumor about losing her virginity to gain popularity, but things spiral out of control.
Fact: The film's title is a play on the term "easy A," referring to an easy grade, and also alludes to the character's name, Olive.
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The Perks of Being a Wallflower (2012)
Description: Charlie, a shy and introspective freshman, forms an unlikely friendship with two seniors, navigating the complexities of high school life.
Fact: The film was adapted from Stephen Chbosky's novel of the same name, which he also directed.
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The DUFF (2015)
Description: Bianca Piper discovers she's labeled as the DUFF (Designated Ugly Fat Friend) by her peers, prompting her to reinvent herself and navigate the social scene.
Fact: The film was adapted from a novel by Kody Keplinger, which was inspired by her own high school experiences.
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