Podcast Summary
Teen movies stakes comparison: In the late 90s, teen movies focused on simpler stakes like love and sex, contrasting the high-stakes movies of 2024, and showcased relatable experiences that resonated with teenage audiences, proving their box office power.
The stakes in movies have significantly increased over the years, with many films from 2024 featuring the fate of the world or universe at risk. However, looking back at movies from 1999, the stakes were often much simpler, focusing on the trials and tribulations of teenage life, such as the obsession with sex and desire for love. Movies like "American Pie," "The Wood," and "10 Things I Hate About You" showcased the relatable experiences of horny teenagers and their attempts to navigate complex social dynamics. The success of these films demonstrated to studios that teenagers were a powerful ticket-buying force, paving the way for more teen-focused movies in the future.
Teen Movies Success Factors: Teen movies like 'American Pie,' 'Ten Things I Hate About You,' and 'Cruel Intentions' succeeded due to cheaper licensing of classic texts, smaller studios targeting underserved market, and raunchy humor. However, their sex-heavy content may not appeal to today's young audiences.
The success of teen movies like "American Pie," "Ten Things I Hate About You," and "Cruel Intentions" in the late 1990s and early 2000s can be attributed to a combination of factors. These films were often based on classic texts in the public domain, which made licensing cheaper. Smaller studios saw an opportunity to cater to an underserved market, as filmmakers grew up on movies like John Hughes' coming-of-age classics. However, it's important to note that these films, which were known for their raunchy humor, may not resonate as much with today's young audiences. A recent study found that young people prefer less sex in their entertainment. Despite the decline in the number of teen movies being produced, the classics continue to have passionate followings. Hollywood's approach to catering to what it knows reflects the evolving nature of popular culture. As we move forward, it's crucial to understand the context and significance of these films and their impact on contemporary media.
NPR's Up First podcast: Listen to NPR's Up First podcast for three meaningful stories in just 15 minutes to make sense of the world during confusing times. Alison Hannigan found humor and valuable lessons from her own teenage experiences.
The world can be full of noise and confusion, especially during election seasons. To help make sense of it all, give the "Up First" podcast from NPR a listen each morning for three meaningful stories in just 15 minutes. Meanwhile, reflecting on the past, Alison Hannigan, who became famous for her roles in "American Pie" and "Buffy the Vampire Slayer," shared her own teenage experience. Despite the challenges, she found humor in the situation and learned valuable lessons that prepared her for the future. When she first read the "American Pie" script, she was immediately drawn to it and fell in love with the story.
Michelle's character in 10 Things I Hate About You: Michelle's quirky character in 10 Things I Hate About You resonated with audiences, reminding us to value those who may seem insignificant at first glance.
Michelle's small yet memorable role in the movie "10 Things I Hate About You" left a lasting impression on audiences due to her relatability and the surprising twist in her character. Despite having limited screen time, Michelle's portrayal of a quirky, underappreciated high school student resonated with viewers. Her character offered a reminder to value those who may seem insignificant at first glance. As for the movie as a whole, while it may contain elements that make some viewers cringe as adults, particularly those with teenage children, the nostalgia and enjoyment of the film often outweigh any discomfort.
High School Experience: Despite cringy moments and outrageous plot twists, 'American Pie's' authentic portrayal of high school life makes it relatable and endearing, allowing viewers to buy into cinematic embellishments and resonate with embarrassing situations.
Despite the cringy moments and outrageous plot twists in "American Pie," the movie's authentic portrayal of the high school experience makes it relatable and endearing to audiences. The grounded performances of the cast allow viewers to buy into the cinematic embellishments, and the film's embarrassing situations resonate with the shared experience of teenage life. Additionally, the current trend of fewer sex scenes in mainstream movies could impact the relevance of "American Pie" in pop culture today. However, the film's ability to capture the essence of the high school experience and elicit feelings of nostalgia may continue to keep it fondly regarded.
American Pie's Enduring Appeal: American Pie, a 25-year-old teen comedy, continues to resonate with new audiences and has even influenced pop culture through a Taylor Swift song, showcasing its enduring appeal.
American Pie, a beloved teen comedy released 25 years ago, continues to resonate with new audiences and has even made a surprising appearance in pop culture through a Taylor Swift song. Actress Allison Hanneken shared her experience of discovering this unexpected reference and expressed her delight at the movie's enduring appeal. The conversation also touched upon the changes in comedy and teen movies over the years, but American Pie's ability to attract new fans remains a testament to its relevance. This episode was produced by Mark Rivers, edited by Adam Rainey, and executive produced by Sami Yanneke. For more in-depth coverage of various topics, including elections and current events, visit NPR's Elections Hub and consider supporting NPR as a Consider This Plus listener.
Power accumulation, individual rights: Exploring movements that accumulate power can lead to decreased individual rights, as discussed in the new season of Extremely American podcast by Boise State Public Radio.
The accumulation of power by certain groups or individuals could potentially result in a decrease in individual rights. This is a theme explored in the new season of Extremely American, a podcast series by Boise State Public Radio, which delves into various movements and their potential impact on society. By listening to Extremely American, part of the NPR Network, you'll gain insights into these movements and the potential consequences they may bring. It's important to stay informed and aware of such developments, as they can significantly affect our lives and freedoms. Heath Druzen, the host of the podcast, invites you to join him on this thought-provoking journey.