A-Z Guide to Musical Theatre - Part 1

Readers, hello and welcome back! Okay, I know I am actually the worst person ever. It's been like 3and a bit months since I last posted anything, but unfortunately the majority of 2016 will be filled with preparations for that pesky HSC coming up in October (and if you're not Australian and have no idea what that is, I heavily envy you). Since we've last chatted, I've completed two exam blocks, a whole bunch of assessment tasks, and have slowly lost the will to live. But, even amidst all of this horror, the one thing that keeps me slightly sane is my collection of Broadway musical bootlegs I have on my hard drive. Whenever I'm feeling ridiculously stressed or borderline homicidal, I simply procrastinate by watching a musical or two, and although it does nothing for my grades, its probably the reason I haven't yet been institutionalised. Instead of being selfish and keeping them all to myself, I have decided to share with you all my comprehensive A-Z list of 26 of my favourite musicals, and hopefully they'll provide for you the same distraction they have been providing for me. However, as to not bombard you (and to save myself from writing a crazily massive post), I'm going to do this in installments. So, without further ado, here are A to G of my top picks . . .

A: The Addams Family

 

So much yes! This is an absolute must-see if you're a fan of the 60's TV series or even the 90's movie franchise, however even if you're not, this musical as amazing nonetheless. It revolves around the notoriously gloomy Wednesday Addams, who finds love with a positively average, happy-go-lucky guy. The two get engaged, and as you can imagine, the first time their families meet is a bit of a disaster - however of course, it is an entertaining one. If you're not lured yet, there's something seriously wrong with you.

B: Bare - A Pop Opera

 

This may not exactly be the happiest of musicals, but it's pretty amazing, not gonna lie. It reminded me a bit of Spring Awakening, but set in the present day with way more drugs and alcohol. It's basically about a bunch of kids refusing to conform to the stupid rules and standards placed upon them in a Catholic Boarding School, how could that not be good? Honestly, I urge you to give it a go. It's funny, it's poignant, and best of all, there are a bunch of high quality bootlegs available to you on the world wide web. Now, I must warn you before you go and start googling, there are a number of versions of this show. The 2012 Broadway Revival was called 'Bare - The Musical', which changed things around a bit and just makes things all the more confusing, but personally, I love a good pop opera, so I'd stick with the original format.

C: Cruel Intentions - The Musical

 

C was bit difficult to choose, because I was tossing up between this and Chicago, but to be honest, I much prefer the movie to the musical version (which like never happens). I was also a bit hesitant to include Cruel Intentions the musical seeing as it hasn't made it to Broadway or even Off-Broadway (yet), but honestly who cares, its pretty fricken cool and there's a bootleg available, so why not? Assuming you're all familiar with the classic 90's film, this musical parody is super cool. It includes all of the famous lines, and is told using popular songs from the decade, which let's just say makes for a very entertaining viewing experience. There's lots of fun, meta audience interaction, and it does everything that a good, slightly indie musical adaptation of a film should. All in all? Definitely worth checking out.

D: The Drowsy Chaperone

 

If you're up for a super fun, totally self-referential theatre experience, this is 100% the musical for you. It revolves around a middle-aged male Broadway fanatic who listens to the soundtrack of an old musical called 'The Drowsy Chaperone', and through the magic of theatre, the characters are somehow able to appear in his living room. From there, you become totally immersed in the show within the show, and then plot twist, it turns out that the audience basically are that guy listening to the soundtrack throughout the whole thing. If you think really hard about it, the protagonist acting as an audience surrogate, sitting alone and listening to Broadway soundtracks in his apartment could be a metaphor for the weird dependency that theatre fans have upon fictional characters and their lives, but if you don't, you'll have a super awesome, light-hearted experience. I honestly couldn't recommend this amazing, fourth wall breaking musical more highly.

E: Enchanted

 

Okay, although this isn't strictly speaking a musical seeing as it has never been performed live, all of the music in the film is composed by Stephen Schwartz and Alan Menken, both of whom are seasoned Broadway veterans, so it still counts. If you haven't seen this film, there is something seriously lacking in your life. Yes, it is a Disney movie, but no, it does not mean that once you turn 7 you no longer find it enjoyable. I kid you not, this film is actually amazing. The songs are fun and amazing, the storyline is super cute, and the cast is actually the best. Plus, did I mention that original Elphaba herself, Idina Menzel, has a supporting role? If you're not yet lured, there's actually something wrong with you, and there's nothing more I can do.

F: Fun Home

 

This one kind of sells itself, seeing as it won the Tony award for Best Musical in 2015, but believe me, 'Fun Home' is seriously super amazing and worth checking out as soon as possible. I was lucky enough to watch this live on Broadway when I was in New York at the end of last year (not that I'm bragging), and it was seriously so good. It follows 43 year old cartoonist Alison Bechdel as she reflects on her life and her relationship with her father, because as it turns out, they were both secretly in the closet while she was growing up. It's super cleverly done, heartwarming and funny, and admittedly at times a bit depressing, but it's really amazing and everyone in the cast is mega talented. I urge you to watch it right now.

G: A Gentleman's Guide to Love and Murder

 

I guess the bragging continues, because once again, I was able to see this musical live. And yes, it was amazing. Based on the 1949 film 'Kind Hearts and Coronets', the show revolves around Monty Navarro, who after his mother's death, discovers that he is a part of the D'Ysquith dynasty, and is ninth in line to be the Earl of Highhurst. Naturally, to ascend to the throne, Monty goes about systematically killing off all of the relatives in his way in what I describe as a musical, comedic version of 'Macbeth'. It's super funny and really clever, and did I mention it won Best Musical at the 2014 Tony Awards? Needless to say, it's a definite must-see.

PS: I do feel that its worth mentioning that 'Grease' was an incredibly close second, but because there's an amazing movie version, and as of January this year, a fabulous copy of the televised live version available, I figured this musical was the best pick.

H: Heathers - The Musical

 

If you've had a browse through Teenage Fanatic before, you would know of my mild (crazily heavy) obsession with this fabulous Off-Broadway musical. Based on the 80's black comedy film, the show follows outcast Veronica Sawyer, who manages to crack a spot in the elite clique of 'Heathers' who dominate the high school food chain. Drama, comedy and murder ensue when she meets new student J.D, and the two end up killing off a bunch of their classmates. If that's not an enticing synopsis, then I don't know what is. Seriously though, this musical is amazing. The music's fab, the writing's the best, and the cast are super duper talented - a winning combination. Legit, go watch the bootleg right now.

BONUS: Hamilton

 

Okay, so because H was a ridiculous decision, I decided I'd give you guys a bonus musical to go check out. If you haven't heard of 'Hamilton', you have literally been in hiding for the past 12 months. Written and starring musical theatre legend Lin Manuel-Miranda, 'Hamilton' is a rap musical about America's founding fathers. That's literally all you need to know. I can't stress to you enough how amazing this show is, and it is 100% going to win Best Musical at this year's Tony Awards (you heard it here first!). So I urge you, if you're able to find a bootleg, watch it immediately. Or if not, just put the soundtrack on repeat.

So that's all folks for the first installment. Hopefully you have enough musicals to binge-watch these holidays, and before you know it, I to Q will be up and ready for your reading pleasure. Once again, sorry about my massive, ridiculous delay in posting, blame the Board of Studies. Til' next time . . .

Annabel xx

Golden Globes 2016: Best and Worst Dressed

Hello blogosphere and welcome to the new year! Yes, I am aware that we're already 18 days in, but better late than never, right? To kick off 2016, I've decided to once again unleash my inner fashionista and critique some of the fashion do's and don'ts at this year's Golden Globes. If you didn't catch it on TV, you definitely should, because it was one hell of a night full of controversial jokes from the one and only Ricky Gervais, auto-cue mishaps and awkward side eye from Leonardo DiCaprio. The whole show was pretty fun, but let's face it, the only thing we're probably going to remember in a few months is who wore what. So without further ado, here's what went down . . .

Best Dressed

Jenna Dewan Tatum

Yes, I only know who she is because she's married to Channing Tatum and was sliced up in 'American Horror Story: Asylum', but nevertheless, she looked fabulous at the Golden Globes. The dress is super fun and sparkly, and let's face it, who doesn't want to make a dramatic ball gown statement on the red carpet? She seriously looks like a grown up Disney princess, I absolutely love it. 

Brie Larson

I really feel like there's a whole lot of foreshadowing going on with this dress. I mean, she literally rocked up to the awards show dressed as a Golden Globe, and then won one for Best Actress in a Drama. Coincidence? I think not. Whatever was going on, I think Brie looked fabulous. I must admit, I'm a fan of some sparkle, so this was definitely a winner in my books. Plus, I'm really pumped she won the Golden Globe, because if you've been following her films for a while now, I think you can agree it's about time. So all in all, I was pretty pumped for Brie Larson. 

Zendaya

If you follow Zendaya on Instagram, you'll discover that she's a bit of a fashion risk-taker, and pretty much slays on every red carpet she steps foot on. Low and behold, the Golden Globes was no exception. Zendaya was simply a guest of Harvey Weinstein's at the event, yet she still totally managed to make her way on to this list (which I'm sure she'd consider to be a major achievement). Seriously, she looks pretty incredible. The pattern of the dress is super pretty, the tiers are cool without being too overwhelming, and she looks really elegant. Basically, she rocked it. 

Lady Gaga

 

I seriously can't get over how amazing Lady Gaga looked! She looks like an old Hollywood movie star, and is ridiculously glamorous. The structured hip padding is super bold but totally works, and everything about this ensemble is so on point I can't even deal. Plus, not only did she look amazing, but she also won the Golden Globe for Best Actress in a Mini Series or TV Movie for AHS: Hotel, what more could you want out of a night? From that, the take home message is basically that Gaga slayed the Golden Globes. 

Saoirse Ronan

She may not have won a Golden Globe this year, but she sure did look amazing. Sure, her dress was pretty simple, but sometimes that's a nice break from all the super intricate gowns you see on the carpet. She looked super pretty and ethereal almost, and the dress is really young and elegant. Plus, not gonna lie, Saoirse look a little bit holy in all white. All in all, an amazing red carpet look. 

Worst Dressed

Jennifer Lopez

 

You have to be really careful when wearing canary yellow, because there's an art to pulling it off. I'm sorry J-Lo, but you have not perfected that art. Ugh, I'm sorry, I love you, but no. The colour is super strong and overpowering, and when there's so much material, that is not a good look. She also just looks super stiff and covered up, except of course for that random, awkward leg split. Plus, I'm a fan of capes and all, but with this dress, it's seriously just overkill. On the positive side, her hair and make-up look really good, but unfortunately they are not enough to salvage this look. I'm sorry, J-Lo, I really am, but I just can't. 

Amber Heard

In the few movies I've seen her in she seems nice and all, but sorry Amber, there is unfortunately nothing I like about this ensemble at all. First of all, the colour is really gross and weird, and looks a little bit like she's started bleeding out. But wait, there's more. The weird flower collar is overpowering and random, and the shape of the dress altogether is just not nice. It looks like a clingy bag that's been tied in the middle, and the high neckline makes her look a bit like a nun. I can see from her hair that Amber was trying to do something cool and retro, but it just did not work out. Sorry, but better luck next time.  

Natalie Dormer

I feel really bad because I think Natalie Dormer's awesome and super talented, but I just don't like this dress. To be fair, it's not the most hideous thing I've ever seen, but at the same time it certainly isn't 'best dressed' material. Not even kidding, without that stupid black thing at the top, this dress would be nowhere near as bad, but unfortunately, the weird neck tie is there to ruin it. It's completely unnecessary and throws off the shape of the dress, making the whole thing look frumpy and gross. Also, the messy hair look is one I'm not a fan of. It seriously just looks as if she rolled out of bed and walked straight on to the red carpet. I'm sorry Natalie, fingers crossed this was a one time fashion faux pas. 

Maggie Gyllenhaal

Again, I feel a bit bad for doing this because Maggie is a really talented actress, but there is seriously nothing nice about her Golden Globes red carpet look at all. The pattern is disgusting, the colours make her look like a weird bumble bee, the shape is just awful, and the random flower on her left shoulder is gross and unnecessary. Not gonna lie, even her hair isn't the best. But despite all of this, at least we can look on the bright side - there's always room for improvement for next time. 

Rachel McAdams

Again, I really like Rachel, but that doesn't exempt her from being on this list, because her Golden Globes frock was not one I was a fan of. At least with this one the shape of the dress is nice and everything, but the pattern is really just not good. It kind of looks like the dress was supposed to be black, and right before coming on the carpet she decided to roll around in a tomato and basil pizza. Plus, the material itself is super creased. I don't know whether this was a deliberate style choice or if Rachel was just feeling super lazy and couldn't be bothered to whip out an iron, but either way, it's not a good look. And even after all of these negatives, there's still one more - her hair. It's weird and puffy, and makes her look like a cockatoo. Once again, I'm really sorry Rachel, but no.

So that's about all I have for you! Hopefully you agree with my fashion critique, and if not, you can always let me know in the comments section. While you have a chance, I highly suggest you do take a look at the awards show, because there was some pretty funny, controversial stuff that went down that I'm sure you really don't want to miss. Til' next time . . .

Annabel xx

2015 Round-Up

Greetings readers! This is officially the last time you will hear from me in 2015, seeing as the new year is fast approaching. I apologise for my severe lack of posting this year, which will only get worse until October, but I promise once I get this pesky HSC over and done with you won't be able to get rid of me. Anyway, on to more exciting news, 2016 is almost here! I'm pretty pumped, and you should all be too. However, before we officially so goodbye to 2015, I say we should give it a send-off by commemorating some of the most memorable moments we've all experienced over the past 12 months. Without further ado, here is the year at a glance . . .

Left Shark

I don't know about you, but I have a special place in my heart for Katy Perry's clearly confused Superbowl back up dancer.

"Sure, Jan"

For some reason, Jan and Marcia Brady from 'The Brady Bunch Movie' made a massive comeback and took over the internet. It was amazing. 

Netflix (and chill) came to Australia

All I can say is thank you. 

Zayn Left One Direction

Meh.

The Kylie Jenner Lip Challenge

If you have no idea what this is, I envy your innocence. Basically in 2015, everyone wanted to have lips as big as Kylie Jenner so tried to use weird suction techniques to achieve this. Spoiler alert, it probably won't work. 

Deez Nuts

Again, if you're a bit estranged from the internet, for those of you who don't know, Deez Nuts is a viral video of internet personality WelvenDaGreat saying 'deez nuts' into a phone, and for some reason, it became a massive world wide web phenomenon, so much so that a person under the pseudonym 'Deez Nuts' is running for president of the United States. True story.

Just Do It

Shai La Beouf was hella inspirational this year and it was literally the best thing ever. If you haven't seen it, watch it now, and even if you have, just watch it again. 

'Don't Judge Me' Challenge

This is oh so stupid and frustrating, and hopefully leaves with 2015. It literally consisted of people putting dots on their face, drawing a fake monobrow, covering the camera, and revealing their real face and being like 'don't judge me'. It's supposed to be some empowering message about 'don't judge a book by its cover', but the point is lost when that's not your actual cover. People making themselves appear to be what society deems to be 'ugly' is just weirdly offensive, and then revealing themselves covered in make up with perfect hair and impeccable lighting is stupid and does nothing to get their point across. Also, if throughout the video we never even get a sense of what is beneath this 'cover' personality wise, then how is this even close to supporting the initial argument? And if you do this challenge, ironically, I will definitely judge you, for being an absolute idiot. I could literally write an entire post on this, but I'll refrain because I don't think anyone wants to read my angry ranting. Basically, I'm just asking, who is this helping? No one. No one at all. 

Minions

Minions took over the world and are now everywhere. There are minion dolls, minion tick tacks, minion bed covers and countless more. They are literally on every product imaginable, and I love it. 

Whipping and 'Nae Nae'-ing

You've heard the song, you've seen the video clip, so you know the drill. If not, watch it right now and get up on the craze. Basically, it's 2015's 'Gangnam Style' and 'Harlem Shake'.

John Cena

I don't even know why, but wrestler John Cena is literally everywhere on the internet right now. Maybe it's because he was in 'Trainwreck', or maybe he's just heavily meme-able? Whatever it is, I have no idea. 

"What are THOOOSSEEE?"

I can't even explain this one, just watch the video. 

"Miley, what's good?"

Having been alive for the past 12 months, there's no way you would've missed out on this. If you've forgotten, I'll give you a small refresher. Nicki Minaj. VMA's. Awkward showdown. Take another look at the video here. 

Kanye and Lindsay are running for President in 2020

No, this is not an elaborate fanfiction, Kanye West and Lindsay Lohan are indeed running for president in 2020. Why? I have no idea, but it's not my country so I'll just enjoy watching the train wreck happen from afar. 

Poot Lovato

If you haven't heard about the conspiracy surrounding Poot Lovato, then you are simply not living. While non-believers say that the photo below is simply a picture of Demi Lovato from a weird angle in bad lighting, others are saying that it is actually her long lost twin, Poot Lovato, who has been locked in a basement for her entire life, and the photo shown is actually her first time seeing the light of day. It is actually hilarious and one of my favourite things ever.

The Wrong Miss Universe was Crowned

This was officially the cringiest moment of the year (which you can watch again here). I just, I can't. Steve Harvey, watch out, Miss Columbia is coming for you. 

The Dress

This confusing piece of fabric literally took over my life. Also, just to clarify, IT'S BLUE AND BLACK. 

And that's the end of the post. Hopefully you enjoyed this rather epic throwback Thursday, and delve in to 2016 having sufficiently waved goodbye to the past twelve months. Oh, and one more thing y'all, HAPPY NEW YEAR! Catch you all in 2016. Til' next time . . .

Annabel xx

16 of the Best Underrated Teen Movies

Hello once again blogosphere! I know, I am a super terrible human. I have been majorly slack with updating as of late, but have no fear, I'm still alive. I've just completed my first term of Year 12, which means the past few months for me have been spent stressing, completing assignments and studying like a maniac. Of course, there are three more terms to come in 2016 which will be even worse, but for the next 6 or 7 weeks, I can be fully dedicated to Teenage Fanatic. To help get though the stresses of their senior year, there's always one place any adolescent can turn - the neatly packaged life lessons contained within a satisfying teen movie. Come on, let's be honest, we all love them. They're 90 minutes of cheesy, predictable high school drama and they definitely shouldn't be anything more. The problem is, after watching each of the teen classics for the 20th time, it takes a little more than Judd Nelson's victorious air punch or Ferris Bueller's sporadic musical stylings to keep you motivated, however all hope is not lost. Once you've powered through the super popular flicks, there are always more obscure movies to binge watch right around the corner. So without further ado, I present to you the best underrated teen movies you've probably never heard of . . .

1. Don't Tell Mum the Babysitter's Dead (1991)

As the title certainly suggests, high school student Sue Ellen is forced to join the work force and earn money for her family in this 90's film when their elderly babysitter drops dead, and instead of alerting their parents (who are on an extended vacation in Australia), the kids take matters into their own hands. It's not exactly super obscure, but in terms of my generation, it's not exactly well known. The plot is of course totally predictable, but that just adds to the fun. There's comedy, romance, and some pretty funky fashion, what else could one wish for?

2. Bart Got A Room (2008)

This film, pretty much no one has heard of, so if you're lucky enough to get your hands on a copy (in any way you can, I don't judge), I suggest you take the time to watch it. Basically, the plot revolves around high school senior Danny who needs a date for the upcoming prom. The pressure's on when he discovers that even Bart, the most unpopular guy in school, has managed to not only find a girl to go with him, but has even booked a room for them to spend the night in (and I'll let you fill in the blanks as to what ensues from there). It's super quirky and doesn't take itself too seriously (especially for an indie film), and is sure to totally satisfy your teen movie needs.   

3. The Rocker (2008)

This flick, which is surprisingly underrated, is very 'School of Rock'-esque. It's about Robert 'Fish' Fisherman, a drummer for the 80's band 'Vesuvius', who upon being kicked out by his fellow band members, joins his nephew's band and hits the road with a bunch of high school students. Once again, the plot is definitely predictable, but it shouldn't be any other way. The movie is super entertaining, and frankly, I'm surprised it isn't more popular, but nevertheless you should give it a shot. 

4. Lucas (1986)

Considering the 80's was jam packed with classic teen flicks, I guess 'Lucas' just got a bit lost in the bunch, and therefore wasn't overwhelmingly popular. However, it totally should've been. The movie focusses on nerdy 14 year old Lucas Bly who attempts to woo Maggie, an older girl who moves in to town. Obviously, they don't get together because that would be creepy, but the movie's super sweet and funny, and is 100% worth a watch. 

5. Submarine (2010)

This movie is the absolute epitome of quirkiness. It almost feels like a foreign film, but its surprisingly distributed by US and UK companies, and you know, is of course in English. It's kind of hard to explain, but it basically follows high school student Oliver through random events in his life, including the beginning of his first, super weird relationship, and the marital issues of his parents. Of course I'm making it sound super dramatic, but trust me when I say it's not. It's just odd, in the best way. I don't think it was ever intended to appeal to a super large audience, hence the fact that it's underrated, but you should definitely give it a go. 

6. Teen Witch (1989)

I actually cannot stress how much I love this movie. Is it lame? Absolutely. But that's what makes it so wonderfully entertaining. It's about Louise, a nerdy high school student who learns from her psychic that she has magical abilities that will begin to appear on her 16th birthday. I mean, how can this movie not be amazing? It really is the ultimate teen flick, and I highly suggest you check it out when you get the chance. 

7. The To Do List (2013)

This movie is amazing, that's all there is to it. Set in 1993 (because why not?), the flick is all about high school valedictorian Brandy, who upon graduating decides that she needs to shed her uptight image, deciding to create a list of things she never did in school that she wants to achieve before college starts. Already, the premise is great, but the actual film is so much better. It's super, super funny and does not take itself seriously at all. I dare you not to like this movie. 

8. Detention (2011)

Not gonna lie, this film is pretty weird. The plot is crazy, the transitions between scenes is super abrupt, and the humour is pretty dark, but I am definitely a fan. I watched this when it first came out in 2011 (although not at the movies because it wasn't even released here in Australia). At the young age of 13, I was pretty scared prior to watching this film considering it's in the horror comedy genre, but I'm pretty sure this is when I started to appreciate black comedy. The movie revolves around outcast Shanley Caswell and hipster Clapton Davis at Grizzly Lake High School, in which the students are being hunted down by serial killer Cinderhella. As if you're not already lured? The film gets pretty weird, and delves in to all sorts of alternate universes, but as long as you're paying attention, this movie is definitely a winner. 

9. Saved! (2004)

What could possibly be better than a religious satire set in an uptight, super Christian high school? Literally nothing. This movie is about Mary, a rather religious teenager who does the deed with her boyfriend in order to prevent him from being gay, thinking it's a part of Jesus' plan, however as a result, ends up pregnant. The premise pretty much sells itself, and seeing Mandy Moore play a psycho religious nutter is not something to be missed. Plus, it just so happens to be on Netflix in the indie section, so check it out ASAP!

10. The Spectacular Now (2013)

Not gonna lie, this movie isn't exactly a comedy. Sure, there are light-hearted moments, but this film is more of an exposé revealing the inner workings of the teen psyche. The movie focuses on Sutter and Amy, two high school seniors with completely different views on life after school, who decide to enter in to a relationship. It's not actually that predictable, and is very much an indie film. Basically, what I'm trying to say is I highly suggest you give it a go. 

11. Welcome Home, Roxy Carmichael (1990)

I'm actually surprised that this film isn't mainstream considering its pretty stellar cast, but today, that's all about to change. It revolves around a small town in Ohio, and how everyone is preparing to welcome home movie star Roxy Carmichael, focussing specifically on her old flame Denton and troubled teen Dinky, who believes that Roxy is her birth mother. It's a little bit strange, not gonna lie, but since when has that been a problem? It's entertaining, a little bit angsty, and has a fun makeover scene - that is literally the formula for a great teen movie right there!

12. Project X (2012)

This movie isn't exactly unheard of, but it certainly isn't prolific either. 'Project X' is about high school student Thomas, who upon turning 17, decides to throw a massive party while his parents are away in an attempt to eradicate his anonymity. It's a bit like 'Superbad' and '21 and Over' being that all of the events of this crazy party take place in one night, but the film kind of takes a slightly more subtle approach. One of Thomas's friends is documenting the whole party on camera, which is what the audience is pretending they are watching as opposed to an actual feature film. The lack of a soundtrack kind of highlights some of the awkwardness that actually does ensue at these ragers, and the film itself is definitely worth checking out. 

13. Get Over It (2001)

I've come across one or two people in my travels who have seen this movie, but considering it has the makings of being a super popular teen flick, I'm surprised it hasn't become a household name. The movie is about high school student Berke, who upon being dumped by his girlfriend Allison joins the school play, a musical version of 'A Midsummer Night's Dream', in order to win back her heart. Of course the film itself is actually based on the renowned Shakespearean comedy, giving a little self-reflexive nod to its premise. It's pretty wacky, but it's also super entertaining and worth your time. 

14. Jawbreaker (1999)

If you've hopped on to Teenage Fanatic in the past, you may be able to recall that I've spoken about this movie before, however aside from me, weirdly, not that many people have heard of it. So of course, I've included it on this list to hopefully rectify that. The film is about a group of mean high school girls who are accidentally responsible for murdering their friend on her 17th birthday by making her choke on a jawbreaker. It's obviously a black comedy, and may seem a tad callous to the faint of heart, but don't worry, the main perpetrator predictably gets her comeuppance in the end, so all is good. It's funny, satisfying, and not too taxing on the brain - a perfect teen movie combination!

15. Ghost World (2001)

This isn't exactly I guess what everyone would classify as a 'teen movie', but is rather a really good film that just so happens to be about teenagers. Nevertheless, it is totally underrated and 100% worth watching. It's about two neo-cool high school girls named Enid and Rebecca, whose friendship totally changes just before they graduate high school. I have to admit, I did a terrible job of summarising the plot, but it's really good I swear. Like good enough to garner a bunch of Academy Award nominations. It was highly praised by critics (as it should be), however was never particularly popular with the public. So I suggest you try and fix that and watch this movie ASAP!

16. It's a Boy Girl Thing (2006)

If you love 'Freaky Friday', this movie is certainly right up your alley. It's all about next door neighbours and adversaries Nell and Woody, who whilst bickering at a field trip, are cursed by an ancient Incan spell and awake the next day to find that they've switched bodies. Of course it's super horrible because they absolutely hate each other, and are at opposite ends of the high school food chain, but as with any romantic teen movie, I think we can all take a guess at how it ends. Yes, it's totally predictable, but once again, how disappointing would it be if it weren't? It's super entertaining, corny enough to be fun, and absolutely worthy of watching. 

So that pretty much concludes this rather extensive post. Hopefully my large list will help make up for the fact that I've been a bit MIA lately, and help you find some new and exciting teen movies to binge watch over the Christmas break. I suggest you all get to work right now, and enjoy every second of the cliche awesomeness you're about to have the pleasure of viewing. Til' next time . . .

Annabel xx