Mean Girls 2024 Review: Musical Remake Buzzes with Energy and New Twists

The highly anticipated Mean Girls 2024 has finally graced the theaters, offering a fresh perspective on the iconic 2004 movie and its subsequent Broadway adaptation. In this comprehensive review, we’ll dissect the film’s various facets, from its divergence from the original storyline to the electrifying performances of the cast. Let’s embark on a journey through the halls of North Shore High and explore how Mean Girls 2024 manages to carve its own identity.

Skipping over Familiar Beats

Mean Girls 2024 takes a bold step by deviating from some of the defining moments of its predecessor. Notably, the omission of Regina George getting hit by a bus might leave die-hard fans longing for the familiar. However, this departure is a deliberate choice to avoid replicating the original and introduces fresh scenes and narrative twists. This decision adds depth to the storyline, making the film a unique entity within the Mean Girls universe.

The Musical Numbers Dilemma

A point of contention among viewers revolves around the musical numbers, with some finding them excessive and unnecessary. Drawing from the Broadway musical adaptation, the film weaves a tapestry of catchy tunes and moments that may feel forced. However, musical preferences are subjective, and what irks one viewer might be a delightful experience for another. Mean Girls 2024 navigates the delicate balance between dialogue and musical sequences, sometimes stumbling but ultimately adding a dynamic flair to the narrative.

Tracklisting for Mean Girls 2024 Soundtrack

1. A Cautionary Tale
2. A New Song Replacing “It Roars”
3. Meet the Plastics
4. Stupid with Love
5. What’s Wrong With Me
6. Sexy
7. Someone Gets Hurt
8. Revenge Party
9. Someone Gets Hurt (Reprise)
10. World Burn
11. I’d Rather Be Me
12. I See Stars
13. Not My Fault

Casting Triumphs and Tribulations

The ensemble cast’s performance presents a mixed bag of triumphs and tribulations. Angourie Rice, stepping into Lindsay Lohan’s shoes as Cady Heron, faces the challenging task of living up to the iconic character’s charisma. While Rice doesn’t quite match Lohan’s charm, she delivers a solid performance. The true star of the show, however, is Reneé Rapp as Regina George. Having previously played the role on Broadway, Rapp brings an undeniable magnetism to the character, making Regina both gorgeous and terrifying. The supporting cast, including Bebe Wood and Avantika, adds their own flavors to the mix, contributing to the film’s overall vibrancy.

A Modern Take on High School Dynamics

Set in 2024, Mean Girls explores how high school dynamics have evolved in the age of smartphones and social media. The film acknowledges the enduring nature of teenage cliques and judgment while infusing a contemporary touch. Janis (Auli’i Cravalho) and Damien (Jaquel Spivey) serve as troubadours for the TikTok generation, setting the stage for a narrative that resonates with today’s youth.

Diversity and Identity in Focus

One of the film’s notable aspects is its commitment to diversity. The 2024 cast introduces a more diverse lineup compared to the original, with the characters embracing their individual identities. Bebe Wood, who plays Gretchen Wieners, shares her excitement about incorporating her Cuban American heritage into the role. Similarly, Avantika, portraying Karen Shetty, expresses gratitude for the opportunity to represent her South Indian background on screen. These subtle nods to cultural backgrounds add depth to the characters and reflect a broader trend in contemporary filmmaking.

From Mean Girls to Women in the Workplace

Rosalind Wiseman, the mind behind Queen Bees and Wannabes, the non-fiction book that inspired the original Mean Girls, has shifted her focus beyond teenage dynamics. In the workplace, Wiseman’s insights continue to resonate as she addresses bullying, power imbalances, and emotional challenges. The enduring relevance of her work underscores the pervasive impact of social dynamics that begin in adolescence and persist into adulthood.

Unraveling the Mean Girl Phenomenon in Adulthood

As the mean girl archetype transcends high school and infiltrates the adult world, Wiseman’s expertise becomes increasingly sought after. Corporate leaders turn to her for guidance on addressing workplace issues, from recruitment challenges to company culture. The #girlboss movement and initiatives like “Lean In” attempted to empower women in the workplace, but Wiseman’s work suggests that deep-rooted social conditioning still hampers progress.

Navigating Workplace Challenges

Wiseman’s workshops and presentations offer practical strategies for women navigating workplace challenges. Assertiveness, rather than aggression, takes center stage as women are encouraged to set boundaries and communicate effectively. The evolving expectations for female behavior in the workplace underscore the ongoing struggle to balance assertiveness with likability.

Cracking the Mean-Girl Facade in Everyday Interactions

Wiseman’s approach emphasizes the power of small, everyday interactions in challenging the mean-girl culture. By fostering empathy and support, individuals can contribute to a more inclusive and positive environment. The film Mean Girls 2024 aligns with this ethos, encouraging audiences to reflect on their own interactions and consider how they can contribute to breaking the mean-girl facade.

Legacy of the Mean Girl

Despite the evolving landscape of social dynamics and the increased focus on intersectionality, the mean-girl archetype persists. Rosalind Wiseman acknowledges the complexity of dismantling this cultural icon but believes that everyday actions can chip away at its influence. As her work extends beyond the confines of adolescence, Wiseman remains committed to fostering healthier interpersonal relationships, one conversation at a time.

In conclusion, Mean Girls 2024 might not be a flawless masterpiece, but it successfully captures the spirit of the original while infusing it with contemporary relevance. The film’s exploration of diversity, identity, and workplace dynamics aligns with Rosalind Wiseman’s broader mission of unraveling the intricacies of social interactions from high school to adulthood. As we navigate the complexities of mean-girl culture, both on screen and in real life, the lessons from Mean Girls 2024 and Wiseman’s enduring insights remind us of the power we hold to shape a more compassionate and understanding world.