Mean Girls (2024)

Sofia Basulto and Alyssa Gin

February 6, 2024

“Mean Girls,” the instant cult classic, has become a cultural reset since its original release in 2004, resonating with audiences for its vulgar humor, relatable characters, and insightful commentary on high school dynamics. Two decades later, “Mean Girls 2024” has hit theaters and has grossed over $83 million thus far.

The newest version of the movie is based on the Mean Girls Musical by Tina Fey and features songs from the musical. Both movies (and the musical) were adapted from the book Queen Bees and Wannabes by Rosalind Wiseman. The movie was officially released on January 12, 2024, and was directed by Samantha Jayne and Arturo Perez Jr. The film stars Reneé Rapp as Regina George, Angourie Rice as Cady Heron, and Christopher Briney as Aaron Samuels.

The film received mixed reviews, but those who enjoyed it appreciated the movie. Faith Allen, 11, watched the movie with friends. “The movie lived up to the expectations I had for it entertainment-wise, but musically speaking, I was disappointed by some of the adjustments to the previous Broadway songs,” Allen stated. “I think for the most part the directors did a good job, but I think for Cady especially, they needed someone vocally talented.”

A big criticism of the movie was the cast and songs. Some people didn’t agree with the casting and were hoping for more vocally talented performers to give the songs justice. Reneé Rapp did play Regina George in some of the musicals, and she was said to have the strongest voice. Joaquin Perez, 12, is a fan of the Mean Girls franchise. “I think it was cool that they made an adaptation of the musical and included the songs,” Perez said. “I liked the songs, but the singing could have been better.” Others did enjoy the movie and the references to the original. Actors such as Tina Fey, Tim Meadows, and Lindsay Lohan made guest appearances and were in the original Mean Girls movie.

“Mean Girls 2024” continues to entertain audiences with its exploration of high school dynamics and its reference to the beloved original film. While some viewers expressed disappointment in certain aspects, such as casting and vocal performances, others appreciated the homage to the musical and the inclusion of familiar faces from the original.

Ultimately, whether you’re a die-hard fan of the franchise or a newcomer to the Plastics world, “Mean Girls 2024” reminds you of this modern classic’s timeless appeal.

About the Contributors

Sofia Basulto, Writer

Entering her final year of high school, Sofia Basulto, is returning for the third and final year of being a writer on the Downey Legend. Although entering senior year can be bittersweet, Basulto is ready to start creating memories and writing them down along the way. After she graduates, Basulto plans to go to her dream school at NYU in hopes of becoming a screenwriter and an actress. Outside of the newspaper room, Basulto is also a part of ASB and loves helping out others. Out of Downey High, Basulto enjoys listening to music, such as Lana Del Rey, SZA, and Amy Winehouse; Basulto also enjoys reading. With her very kind and outgoing personality, Basulto hopes to encourage Dowey High and anyone out there to enjoy this 2023-2024 school year. “ Sometimes, we just have to get out there,” Basulto stated. “ We only live once. We don’t know who can be out there. A person you have never spoken to, can be your soulmate.”

Alyssa Gin, Writer

Coming back to The Downey Legend for the second year in a row, Alyssa Gin, 12, returns in hopes of preparing herself for college and the future. Gin has been getting ready for this moment for the past 4 years, committing to playing Varsity Girls’ Tennis and volunteering in the Assistance League of Downey. Gin has been ‘experimenting’ with the possibilities of her future, trying different courses within school and accepting new opportunities to learn. Although she believes that getting involved is important, in her free time, her favorite thing to do is going to concerts, shopping, reading, and hanging out with her friends. Gin holds her family close to her heart and values the support she constantly receives and feels from them. “What motivates me through life is my family,” said Gin. “...and also I motivate myself.”