Movies & Shows Like High School U.S.A.

Description: This film captures the essence of teenage life in the 1980s, focusing on high school students navigating love, friendships, and personal growth. Its comedic yet heartfelt portrayal of adolescence resonates with the themes of youth and coming-of-age.

Fact: The movie is based on a book by Cameron Crowe, who went undercover as a high school student to research the material. The iconic pool scene was filmed in one take.

Description: A coming-of-age story about a high school student who gets into trouble when his parents leave him home alone. Its mix of comedy, drama, and teenage rebellion makes it a classic of the genre.

Fact: The iconic scene of Tom Cruise sliding across the floor in his underwear was improvised. The movie was shot on a tight budget, with many scenes filmed in the director's own house.

Description: A heartfelt comedy about a girl whose family forgets her 16th birthday. The film's mix of humor and teenage angst, along with its focus on high school social hierarchies, makes it a standout in the genre.

Fact: The movie was shot in just 28 days. The character of Long Duk Dong was controversial for its stereotypical portrayal, but became a cult favorite.

Description: A quintessential 80s teen movie that delves into the lives of five high school students from different social cliques who bond during a Saturday detention. Its exploration of teenage identity and social dynamics is both humorous and poignant.

Fact: The film was shot in sequence, and most of it takes place in one location—the school library. The script was written in just two days.

Description: A high school girl disguises herself as a boy to prove she can be a better journalist than her male peers. The film's humorous take on gender roles and high school life is both entertaining and thought-provoking.

Fact: The movie was inspired by Shakespeare's 'Twelfth Night.' The lead actress had to cut her hair short for the role, which was a big deal at the time.

Description: This sci-fi comedy follows two high school nerds who create the perfect woman using their computer. Its blend of teenage fantasy, humor, and high school life captures the spirit of 80s teen films.

Fact: The movie's title was inspired by a 1950s comic book series. The special effects for creating Lisa were groundbreaking for the time.

Description: This movie follows a charismatic high school student who skips school for a day of adventure in Chicago. Its lighthearted tone and focus on teenage rebellion and fun make it a classic of the genre.

Fact: The famous parade scene was filmed during an actual German-American parade in Chicago. The Ferrari used in the movie was a replica, as the producers couldn't afford a real one.

Description: A romantic comedy about a high school girl from the wrong side of the tracks who falls for a rich boy. The film's exploration of class differences and teenage romance is both touching and relatable.

Fact: The original ending had Andie ending up with Duckie, but test audiences preferred Blane, so it was reshot. Molly Ringwald's prom dress was inspired by her own high school prom dress.

Description: A high school nerd pays the most popular girl in school to pretend to be his girlfriend, leading to unexpected consequences. The film's exploration of social status and teenage relationships is both funny and heartfelt.

Fact: The movie's title is a reference to The Beatles song. The film was originally titled 'Boy Rents Girl' but was changed to avoid controversy.

Description: A story about a high school artist who falls for the most popular girl in school, only to realize his best friend might be the one for him. Its themes of unrequited love and friendship are central to its appeal.

Fact: The film was originally intended to be a sequel to 'Pretty in Pink,' but the story was reworked. The drumming scenes were performed by the actor himself, who was a trained drummer.