The hallowed halls of academia inspire nostalgia. From riotous frat houses to transformative classroom moments, our list of back-to-school films dives deep into the world of higher education. Get ready to enroll in a cinematic adventure, no textbooks are required.
Ferris Bueller’s Day Off (1986)
In Ferris Bueller’s Day Off (1985), highschooler, Ferris Bueller (Matthew Broderick), decides to skip school for a day of adventure in Chicago. He drags along his girlfriend, Sloane (Mia Sara), and reluctant best friend, Cameron (Alan Ruck). As they explore the city, they must stay one step ahead of the dogged school principal, Ed Rooney (Jeffrey Jones). Through comedic escapades and iconic moments, the film is a celebration of youth, friendship, and making the most out of life. Ferris Bueller’s Day Off is a like a mini high school reunion.
Mean Girls (2004)
In Mean Girls (2004), homeschooler, Cady Heron (Lindsay Lohan), enters public high school. She quickly gets entangled with the school’s most popular clique, “The Plastics,” led by Regina George (Rachel McAdams). Initially attempting to infiltrate them as part of a plan with her new friends Janis (Lizzy Caplan) and Damian (Daniel Franzese), Cady soon gets seduced by the allure of popularity. As relationships get tested and secrets are exposed, Cady learns the complexities of teenage social hierarchies and the cost of fitting in.
A Beautiful Mind (2001)
At Princeton University, the brilliant mathematician John Nash (Russell Crowe) makes a groundbreaking discovery. He’s soon on the path to international acclaim. As he starts a life with Alicia (Jennifer Connelly), he begins a harrowing battle with schizophrenia, blurring the line between reality and delusion. A Beautiful Mind (2001) is based on the true story of mathematician and Nobel prize winner, John Nash.
Clueless (1995)
Clueless (1995) enters the upscale world of Beverly Hills, Cher Horowitz (Alicia Silverstone) navigates high school life with confidence and a credit card. When she decides to give the socially clueless, Tai (Brittany Murphy), a makeover, it leads to unexpected romantic entanglements and a personal realization. Through comedic misadventures and witty one-liners, Cher learns valuable lessons about love, friendship, and herself.
The Dead Poets Society (1989)
The Dead Poets Society (1989) starts at an all boys school. At the conservative Welton Academy, English teacher John Keating (Robin Williams) introduces students like Neil (Robert Sean Leonard) and Todd (Ethan Hawke) to poetry and the philosophy of “Carpe Diem”. Their worldviews shift, leading to profound personal transformations and tragic outcomes. The Dead Poets Society is the perfect fall film.
Pitch Perfect (2012)
Pitch Perfect (2012) focuses on the extracurricular, and sometimes musical, side of college. At Barden University, newcomer Beca Mitchell (Anna Kendrick) reluctantly joins the all-girls a cappella group, the Barden Bellas, alongside characters like Aubrey (Anna Camp) and Fat Amy (Rebel Wilson). As they prepare for a national competition, they shake up their traditional repertoire to take on their male rivals.
The Breakfast Club (1985)
Five high school students from different cliques meet for detention in The Breakfast Club (1985). The group includes, the brainy Brian (Anthony Michael Hall), athlete Andrew (Emilio Estevez), basket case Allison (Ally Sheedy), princess Claire (Molly Ringwald), and rebel Bender (Judd Nelson). Throughout the day, they confide in one another, breaking down their stereotypical exteriors. Enjoy this taste of 80s nostalgia with a side of popcorn.
Old School (2003)
Disillusioned with adulthood, Mitch (Luke Wilson), Frank (Will Ferrell), and Beanie (Vince Vaughn) start a rogue fraternity near a college campus. The trio engage in wild parties and college antics but face opposition from the university dean. Old School (2003) is high-energy comedy, with a touch of raunchy frat boy energy. Just what you need to remember your dorm days.
Legally Blonde (2001)
In Legally Blonde (2001), sorority queen, Elle Woods (Reese Witherspoon), pursues a degree at Harvard Law School to win back her ex-boyfriend Warner (Matthew Davis). Defying expectations, Elle uses her unique perspective and determination to not only excel in law but to defend a falsely accused client. Through her time at Harvard Elle discovers who she is in this tale of college transformation.
Rudy (1993)
Rudy (1993) is based on the true story of Rudy Ruettiger (Sean Astin). Ruettiger dreams of playing football at the University of Notre Dame. Despite academic challenges, a small physique, and constant skepticism, Rudy’s relentless determination leads him towards fulfilling his dream.
The 20 Best Science Fiction Movies of All Time: Enter a World Beyond Your Imagination
Get ready to explore galaxies far, far away and other realms beyond your imagination! Whether you’re a sci-fi nerd or just a major cinephile, we know you’re going to love these 20 best science-fiction movies of all time. From space battles to time travel, this list has it all. Grab your popcorn, sit back, and enjoy the greatest sci-fi films in this universe or any other.
The 20 Best Fantasy Movies of All Time: Enter a World Beyond Your Imagination
Get ready to be enchanted as we explore the realm of fantasy films! Immerse yourself in captivating worlds and epic adventures with my handpicked selection of the 20 greatest fantasy movies ever made. From Middle Earth’s mystical landscapes to The Green Mile’s emotional depths, this list promises to transport you to extraordinary realms.
The 20 Best History Movies of All Time: Relive the Past Through the Magic of Film
Calling all history buffs and movie lovers! Get ready for a cinematic time travel experience with our top 20 history movies. From Schindler’s List’s powerful Holocaust narrative to the groundbreaking Hamilton musical, these films will immerse you in the most significant moments of human history. Prepare for a historical adventure like no other- and you won’t even need to leave your couch!
