: A horror masterpiece that uses the high school prom as a backdrop for a "shy, friendless" girl's violent breaking point after years of humiliation.

For those looking for a comprehensive list of the "best" in this genre, you can explore the 70 Best High School Movies of All Time at or the 50 greatest high school movies of all time on IMDb .

: A modern classic that captures the cringe and intense loneliness of being a high school outsider with a sharp, adult wit. Transgressive and Niche School Stories

The genre of "mature" school movies typically refers to films that explore the complex, often R-rated realities of adolescence—touching on themes like burgeoning sexuality, social alienation, and the loss of innocence. These films often move beyond the sanitized "Disney" version of high school to present a more visceral, authentic experience. Foundational "Mature" School Classics