Five films and TV shows that exaggerated teenage life in high school
![Mean Girls (2004)](https://i.sspdaily.com/news/2024/7/2/p34319vh8av.jpg?size=355x198)
High school is often portrayed in movies and TV shows, creating certain expectations in the minds of eager students entering this new phase of life. However, the reality of high school often fails to meet these extravagant depictions. Here are five films and TV shows that shattered the expectations of high school life. This is prepared by SSP.
High School Musical
First up is "High School Musical," the ultimate illusion of high school that led us to believe that breaking into spontaneous song and dance during lunch was the norm. Alas, this couldn't be further from reality. The absence of the fictional heartthrob Troy Bolton and the unrealistic popularity of theater kids as shown in the movie further distorts the true high school experience.
Pretty Little Liars
Next on the list is "Pretty Little Liars," a series featuring impeccably dressed girls that sets unattainable standards for real-life school attire. While the mysterious plot may seem appealing, expecting teenagers to simultaneously solve a complicated mystery in the midst of homework and projects is simply unrealistic. The exaggerated level of secrecy and drama portrayed in the show only adds to the misrepresentation of high school life.
Euphoria
"Euphoria" garnered massive attention for its controversial content, but this does not make it an accurate depiction of high school. The extravagant clothing choices and the presence of violence without real consequences defy the rules and regulations typically enforced in schools. The series includes a multitude of intense themes that, while individually experienced in real life, are unlikely to coexist in one high school.
Gossip Girl
"Gossip Girl" gives us a glimpse into the lives of high school students from Manhattan's Upper East Side and their extravagant lifestyles. However, it is vital to recognize that this series represents a small subset of students belonging to elite backgrounds. Relying on such a show to shape expectations of high school creates unrealistic standards and fails to encompass the experiences of the majority of students.
Mean Girls
Finally, the movie "Mean Girls" comes closest to capturing some aspects of real high school life, such as cliques, social struggles, and the quest to fit in. However, it exaggerates the prevalence of mean-spirited individuals throughout the entire student body. Additionally, the movie implies that the school administration intensely addresses bullying and resolves conflicts, which rarely aligns with the actual response victims receive.