MEAN GIRLS is an updated knock-off of the 2004 non-musical film and the recent Broadway production. It was brought to life again by Lorne Michaels. Of course, Tina Fey can still be seen within those hallowed high school halls, as well as Renee Rapp who transferred to the movie from Broadway as Regina.
The problem with this version of MEAN GIRLS is that it is too tame for todayโs vindictive and vocal society. In 2004, the dialogue and actions seemed outrageous as compared to 2024. We are accustomed to hearing and seeing more every day. The production numbers werenโt memorable except for Reneeโs entrance, Karenโs (Avantika) SEXY song, and Janisโs (Auliโi Cravaiho) huge IโD RATHER BE ME mega-hit. Donโt get me wrong. The entire ensemble can sing and dance, (with the exception of Tina) but many of the tunes are easily forgettable.
MEAN GIRLS still delivers a powerful punch when it comes to the basic theme. The dialogue is great for pre-teens and older. The message of how we treat others should resonate for both genders. The film just didnโtย spark enough, but it was a kick to see a surprise visit at the math competition. Wowโฆthat was a โfetchโ moment. This leads me to another point when watching a movie about teenagers. Can theย studios please cast teenagers for these roles? If I am supposed to suspend my disbelief when I watch, then donโt make โThe Plasticsโ or any other couple look 25 years old. I enjoy high schoolers playing high school kids a whole lot more.ย
MEAN GIRLS has some spunk and energy. It just doesnโt have enough to keep this viewer dancing in her seat. I needed more, and maybe a bigger piece of the tiara. Musicals should go big or go home. I wished for a bigger payoff for Cady (Angourie Rice) than the predictable โhappily ever afterโ ending. It is streaming on PARAMOUNT.
