A take-notice soundtrack
Many movies feature background music for the sake of having background music.
But teen movies often use the soundtrack as a narrative rig all its own.
Burgeoning but not A-list teen actors
Mean Girlsis the perfect example here.
Credit: Ben Rothstein/Fox
Good teen flicks make no qualms about adopting theirschtick.
Or Olives (Emma Stone) livestreams inEasy A.
Or the fact that10 Things I Hate About Youis really justThe Taming of the Shrew.
Michael Gibson
Theyre simply there because it would be weird if they werent.
Who saw Stanley Tucci and Patricia Clarksons quips inEasy Acoming?
Extra bonus points are awarded when even the school staff members are self-deprecating geniuses.
Ben Rothstein/Fox
), but beneath it all they need some redeeming qualities that allow us to root for them.
See also: Christine Lady Bird McPherson.
Were not trying to watch actors squeeze into realistic spaces we want real estate escapism!
The same goes for teen movies.
We can now add Simon to the list thanks to his dreamy sleeping nook and wonderfully unrealistic chalkboard wall.
Adult eye candy
Grown-ups need love too, okay?
Salt-and-pepper hair is sexy!
Tear-jerking moments
Well, duh.
We all had someone who readThe Peoples History of the United Statesand constantly reminded us of the war.
If you didnt, well, then that was you.
Jennifer Garner
Okay, so this element isnt an absolute necessity.
Scene-stealing best friends
The stars of teen movies are only as strong as their supporting actors.
Lady Bird:I do?
Sister Sarah Joan:You write about Sacramento so affectionately and with such care.
Lady Bird:I was just describing it.
Sister Sarah Joan:Well it comes across as love.
Lady Bird:Sure, I guess I pay attention.
Sister Sarah Joan:Dont you think maybe they are the same thing, love and attention?
