Teen movies often rehash familiar tropes. But some films have managed to break free and create unique versions of an emotional love story.
No matter the form or function, these couples successfully sell their initial attraction. We swoon over these best kisses from teenage movies!
Spider-Man and Mary Jane
Teen movies often receive criticism for their unrealistic plot lines and dubious acting; yet they remain an effective way to relax and return to your childhood memories. There are numerous romantic scenes in teen flicks; one iconic moment from 10 Things I Hate About You in 1999 being its famous first kiss scene.
At that moment, Mary Jane and Peter first exchanged kisses that forever altered our view of good-girl-meets-bad-boy romances and superhero smooches. Even before becoming his girlfriend, MJ provided comfort after Gwen Stacy was murdered by Green Goblin; even if Peter rejected her initially, eventually helping him unlock his inner superhero.
A Walk To Remember
Sam and Austin’s first kiss after a masquerade ball is the epitome of all teen movie fan fantasies: an iconic figure defying his peers, an enormous crowd, cheesy music and sudden rainstorm.
Breakfast at Tiffany’s created one of the most iconic romantic scenes ever: this sweet kiss between Holly and Joe from Breakfast at Tiffany’s is truly unforgettable. It symbolizes their mutual feelings after months of hiding them from a homophobic society, as well as reminding viewers that true love is worth fighting for.
10 Things I Hate About You
Why We Swooned Over It: Nothing captures romantic chemistry like an exquisite first kiss between two completely disparate people, which explains why so many viewers of Breakfast at Tiffany’s have gone ga-ga over Holly and Paul from their delightful scene together.
John Hughes’ classic shows the drama and comedy of high school life like no other film could – complete with cliques, nerds, jocks and Sam’s sweet sixteenth birthday party. Watching Molly Ringwald and Michael Sheeffling share an unrequited romantic relationship is sure to bring back fond memories!
Released in 1999, 10 Things I Hate About You is a modern adaptation of William Shakespeare’s The Taming of the Shrew with an impressive cast including Joseph Gordon-Levitt as Cameron James, Julia Stiles as Kat Stratford and Heath Ledger as Patrick Verona – just to name a few!
Sixteen Candles
Teen movies offer a fantastic escape from reality for a brief period, offering carefree romance that’ll have your heart racing.
Molly Ringwald and Jake Ryan provided us with an unforgettable scene exemplifying teenage love. Their first kiss is an example of classic romance found within these films.
Clueless
Clueless is an award-winning comedy that pays a loving homage to 90s culture, challenging privilege and self-reflection while staying true to its lighthearted tone. The film showcases supportive female friendships while exploring one of teen movie cliche’s biggest tropes; girls falling for boys.
Cher, played by Alicia Silverstone, epitomizes one aspect of teenage culture without becoming arrogant about it. On her sixteenth birthday party she meets her crush and shares one of the greatest first kisses in teenage movie history with him; an endearing and lovely exchange which should not be overlooked.
The Princess Diaries
Anne Hathaway made her mark as a movie star with this hit family movie featuring Anne as an awkward princess attempting to remain cool when she discovers she is actually an heir to a European throne, featuring an iconic makeover and plenty of touching moments that both teens and their parents can bond over together.
No matter your opinion of Edward or Jacob, no one can deny that Edward and Jacob make for one of the most attractive couples in a romance film. Their first kiss left viewers reeling with emotion.
Sam and Josie seemed set on becoming adversaries until one memorable scene in 1984’s movie saw Josie surprise Sam with a no-holds barred makeout session that sent shockwaves through their relationship.
