Let’s be real: The 2004 comedy chick flick “Mean Girls” defined an entire generation. It’s nearly been two decades since the cult classic hit the cinemas for the first time, yet it’s still as relevant today as it was before. There were a lot of films that attempted to draw inspiration from it, probably hoping to echo its impact, but I think it’s safe to say that nothing comes close to the OG. Its cliché but compelling plot and the many moments of hilarity, especially those that involve the iconic clique The Plastics, made up a cinematic masterpiece that is worth retelling to both old and new audiences.
While the long-awaited “Mean Girls” sequel may not be possible for now, a musical film adaptation is currently in the works, looking to reimagine the story in a way it can resonate with the current generations. It seems pretty promising, considering it’ll be produced by the same masterminds behind the 2004 film: producer Lorne Michaels and screenwriter Tina Fey. Plus, Lorne and Tina will be assisted by co-directors Samantha Jayne and Arturo Perez Jr. and heads of music production and lyric writing Jeff Richmond and Nell Benjamin.
It’s expected to follow the same plot where 16-year-old Cady Heron moves from Africa to Illinois and finds herself trapped within the hierarchy of high school cliques as she joins The Plastics (a.k.a the school’s most popular clique) led by Regina George. But here’s the catch: Don’t expect Lindsay Lohan or Rachel McAdams to show up on the screen as the ensemble cast will be portrayed by a fresh set of actors.
Angourie Rice as Cady Heron
Known popularly as Siobhan in “Mare of Easttown” (2021) and Betty Brant in the “Spider-Man” franchise, you best believe we got our eyes on rising actress Angourie Rice as she is set to play her first-ever musical role as Cady Heron. An actor who’s willing to take risks and expand her horizons? We have no choice but to stan.
Reneé Rapp as Regina George
Thespian. That’s the perfect word to describe Reneé Rapp who was cast to portray Regina George twice—first, in the 2018 Broadway musical and second, in the upcoming musical film adaptation. At 22, she has already bagged multiple acting credits across film, television, and theater. So, we’re considering this a win for people who love Regina more than Cady because it’s over for everyone once Reneé takes on the spotlight.
Auli’i Cravalho as Janis Ian
Everyone knows Auli’i Cravalho for lending her voice to Moana. (Yup, in case you aren’t aware, she’s the voice actress behind that cute computer-animated teenager who loves the ocean.) There’s this default good girl aura that emanates from Auli’i, which makes us excited to see her play an edgy, rebellious, and low-key villainous character like Janis Ian.
Jaquel Spivey as Damian Leigh
Seriously, what is “Mean Girls” without Damian Leigh? Apart from giving representation to queer teens who struggle within their high school walls, his loud presence was one of the things that makes the film more fun and exciting. And who’s going to portray his character better than Jaquel Spivey? (For those unfamiliar, Jaquel is a 24-year-old queer actor who recently made his Broadway debut in “A Strange Loop.”)
Read more:
A ‘Mean Girls’ movie musical is coming to screens near you
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Photos from Angourie Rice, Auli’i Cravalho, and Reneé Rapp on Instagram
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