Modern adaptations of classic literature are basically fanfics, if you think about it (#modernAU). They succeed because the story is familiar and the structure is sound, but the modern twist gives it new life. Although I love adaptations such as Bridget Jones’s Diary (based on Pride & Prejudice, of course), teen-centric adaptations are especially clever because really, what setting has more drama, farce, and tragedy than high school?
Here are some of my favorites:
Clueless (1995) - Emma, Jane Austen
One of my all-time faves. I think Alicia Silverstone’s Cher perfectly exemplifies the spirit of Emma: confident and well-intentioned but sometimes insensitive due to her wealth, privilege, and popularity.
10 Things I Hate About You (1999) - The Taming of the Shrew, Shakespeare
Another one of my all-time faves. I’m not familiar with the play, unfortunately, but it’s been criticized as misogynistic (a lady is a “shrew” who has to be “tamed” by a man. Gee whiz.) I would argue that the movie gives a pretty good representation of “white girl” girl power, i.e., entry-level feminism.
She’s The Man (2006) - Twelfth Night, Shakespeare
Very funny, shockingly underrated movie that I almost forgot about when making this list. I also haven’t read or watched this play (I need to take Remedial Shakespeare 101) but the plot is a bit convoluted. The comedy in the movie is more physical than cerebral but hey, it’s a fun time with a young Channing Tatum.
She’s All That (1999) - Pygmalion, George Bernard Shaw (aka My Fair Lady)
Popular jock Freddie Prinze Jr. accepts a bet to turn dorky art student Rachael Leigh Cook into the next Prom Queen. Yes, I rightly criticized it for its unnecessary makeover, but I still find it entertaining.
On-the-fence mentions:
Romeo + Juliet (1996): This retains the original Shakespearean dialogue so it doesn’t feel very modern.
Easy A (2010): This is less adaptation and more explicit reference to The Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne, if I recall correctly.
Problematic mentions:
Cruel Intentions (1999) - Les Liaisons dangereuses, Pierre Choderlos de Laclos
This movie did not age well, tbh: a lot of problematic sexual manipulation.
Sierra Burgess Is A Loser (2018) - Cyrano de Bergerac, Edmond Rostand
Although Cyrano is inherently deceptive, the non-consensual elements of the love story are extra problematic and have been correctly criticized. I wouldn’t recommend this movie for that reason.
The Half Of It (2020) - also Cyrano de Bergerac
Not nearly as problematic as the former but the basic Cyrano premise is still not ideal.
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