Mean Girls is back, more musical and modernised for the 2024 audience. Originally a book, Queen Bees and Wannabes, it was brought to the big screen in 2004 which was a huge hit. The film prompted the Broadway version, which in turn has now been brought to screen by Samantha Jayne and Arturo Perez Jr., Tina Fey also has continued to have influence providing the updated screenplay. While it seems like quite a process to get here, it’s welcomed with open arms. Not everyone can get to Broadway to see a hit musical, so film adaptations are always a treat, especially when they capture the glam, fun and spark of live theatre. 

 

For fans of the 2004 film, you’ll be bathed in familiarity. The premise is the same, iconic lines are kept in place and the plastics are still as fake. We have Tine Fey and Tim Meadows reprising their roles. Some elements have had a slight refresh though, 20 years on obviously fashion has moved on but so has representation. Characters and concepts are a bit more of an accurate depiction of society and less of (sometimes cringy) stereotypes. We’ve also moved onto social media as a key element, goodbye to the three-way calling attack and hello to TikToks. 

 

The musical element to the film feels natural, the songs are total bangers as well! Reneé Rapp owns the role of Regina George. Having already played the same part on Broadway she’s made the transition to screen flawlessly. Meet the Plastics has immediately made it to my Hot Girl Walk playlist. The other stand out songs would be Sexy and Revenge Party. 

 

The resurgence of girlhood in big films is a delight, pink is thoroughly cool again (on a Wednesday especially). The message from Mean Girls rings true as it did in the 2004 version, and it’s fantastic a new generation has a relevant movie to access it.

 

Mean Girls is a delight, for girls, musical theatre fans and people who love a good time.