History of 'Teen Movies'

  • 'Teenager'

    The word 'teenager' first appeared in America after World War II. In the 1930's America made high school compulsory - before that most people when straight to work as their families needed the money. Once public high schools became available, those four years became the classic 'teenage' years.
  • The Wild One

    The Wild One
    The first teen film was called 'The Wild One' which starred Marlon Brando and was banned in the UK for fourteen years because it was the first film to show biker gangs and rebellion.
  • Rebel Without a Cause

    Rebel Without a Cause
    'Rebel Without a Cause' was a teen/drama film filmed in 1955 and explored the life of 'Jim Stark' (played by James Dean) and the troubled relationships he had with his friends and family.
  • Beach Party

    Beach Party
    This film is significant in the history of teen films as it is credited with creating the 'teen beach' genre.
  • Grease

    Grease
    'Grease' is a classic film that is still popular today but not just among teens, however it was directed at teenagers at the time as it showcased young love and life at High School.
  • Clueless

    Clueless
    One of the most successful and popular teen films is 'Clueless'.
    It is so popular because it contains all the stereotypical representations of a 'teen' film and the directors have targeted a specific audience.