The Best Teen Movies Of The 1990s
The 1990s saw many classic and cult film hits that have remained popular even with modern audiences. What is the best 1990s teen movie about high school? Titles such as Clueless, Can’t Hardly Wait, Dazed and Confused, and Cruel Intentions all appear on this list of '90s teen movies, which has been voted on by users like you to rank the greatest 1990s movies about teenagers.
Teen movies from the '90s have the ability to make us feel. They make us want to believe, be inspired and live vicariously through the stories we see on screen. Teen movies often resonate with us the most, as our teenage years are the most angst-ridden and formative times of our lives. Movies that tell the story of nerds and outcasts and teen romance resonate with many people and it is with a peek into the lives of these individuals that we can either find solace, live vicariously, or connect with a story similar to our own. These movies vary in their genre but they are all equally fascinating.
These classic 90s films star the most iconic teen actors of the decade, like Alicia Silverstone, Melissa Joan Hart, Freddie Prinze, Jr., and Katie Holmes. Many of these actors have found success in modern films as well, while others have fallen into obscurity.
Vote up the greatest '90s teen movies ever made below or add the classics you love that aren't already on the list.
- 1Heath Ledger, Julia Stiles, Joseph Gordon-Levitt
- Released: 1999
- Directed by: Gil Junger
This modern adaptation of Shakespeare's "The Taming of the Shrew" is a witty, hilarious romp through high school romance. With an unforgettable cast including Heath Ledger and Julia Stiles, it captures the essence of '90s teen culture. The film tackles themes like love, trust, and individuality while delivering memorable one-liners. In true 90's fashion, it features a killer soundtrack that'll have you humming for days.
- 2Alicia Silverstone, Stacey Dash, Brittany Murphy
- Released: 1995
- Directed by: Amy Heckerling
A quintessential '90s teen movie filled with iconic fashion statements and catchphrases galore! Clueless follows Cher Horowitz as she navigates Beverly Hills High School with charm and style to spare. This satirical take on Jane Austen's "Emma" explores popularity, friendship dynamics, and self-discovery in a way that still resonates today. As if you could forget this classic!
- 3Sarah Michelle Gellar, Ryan Phillippe, Reese Witherspoon
- Released: 1999
- Directed by: Roger Kumble
Step into the world of elite Manhattan prep schools where deception reigns supreme in this dark coming-of-age drama. Cruel Intentions showcases Sarah Michelle Gellar at her most sinister alongside Ryan Phillippe as they engage in manipulative games involving love triangles and betrayal among their peers. Despite its twisted nature, the film remains grounded by exploring themes such as redemption and genuine human connection amid all its wickedness—a true hallmark of '90s cinema.
- 4Freddie Prinze, Rachael Leigh Cook, Matthew Lillard
- Released: 1999
- Directed by: Robert Iscove
An endearing tale about looking beyond appearances defines She's All That—one of the era’s most beloved underdog stories! Freddie Prinze Jr.'s character bets he can transform Rachel Leigh Cook from geek to prom queen material within six weeks but ends up learning valuable life lessons along the way—aren't we all suckers for those? An enchanting blend of humor, heartache (and even some choreographed dance numbers) make this a must-watch '90s teen flick.
- 5Neve Campbell, David Arquette, Courteney Cox
- Released: 1996
- Directed by: Wes Craven
Wes Craven redefined horror with Scream—an innovative slasher flick that cleverly parodies the genre while still delivering genuine scares. Neve Campbell stars as Sidney Prescott, a high school student targeted by the infamous Ghostface killer. With its self-aware humor and unique blend of horror-comedy elements, Scream remains an influential film that has forever changed how we view scary movies.
- 6Johnny Depp, Winona Ryder, Dianne Wiest
- Released: 1990
- Directed by: Tim Burton
This Tim Burton masterpiece tells the story of an artificial man with scissors for hands who yearns to be accepted by society. Johnny Depp's haunting portrayal of Edward is both heartwarming and heartbreaking in equal measure. A whimsical, gothic fairy tale that explores themes like loneliness and self-acceptance, Edward Scissorhands has become a beloved cult classic emblematic of '90s cinema.
