The Evolution of “Mean Girls” from Screen to Stage and Back
Nearly two decades after the original “Mean Girls” film became a cult classic, the 2024 adaptation breathes new life into the beloved story. Crafted by the original writer, Tina Fey, this version isn’t just a simple remake. Instead, it offers a fresh take by incorporating elements from the Broadway musical, also penned by Fey. This article delves into what makes the 2024 “Mean Girls” a unique addition to the franchise.
A Musical Twist on a Familiar Tale
The biggest surprise for many viewers of the new “Mean Girls” is its musical format. The 2024 version draws heavily from the stage musical, adapting its songs and narrative style to the screen. Jeff Richmond and Nell Benjamin, responsible for the Broadway musical’s score, bring their talent to this movie as well.
“For people who saw or heard about the Broadway musical, this may seem like an obvious question. But the early trailers mostly hid the movie’s musical status, and anecdotal evidence from early screenings has made it clear that some audience members were pretty surprised to find themselves at a musical.”
This adaptation showcases a blend of familiar and new elements, presenting a narrative that resonates with a contemporary audience while maintaining the essence of the original story.
Adapting Music for the Big Screen
Translating a musical from stage to screen involves significant changes, especially in its musical components. In the 2024 “Mean Girls,” some songs have been altered to suit the film format and the cast’s strengths. For instance, Cady’s initial powerhouse song “It Roars” was replaced with “What If?”, a more subdued number aligning with Angourie Rice’s vocal range.
“As with many theatrical adaptations of stage musicals, some original songs were added for this movie, some were cut from the Broadway rendition, and some were switched around to different characters.”
These modifications underscore the film’s intent to create a unique musical experience, differentiating it from both its 2004 predecessor and the stage version.
A Surprise Post-Credits Scene
In a nod to contemporary cinematic trends, “Mean Girls” 2024 includes a post-credits scene. Without revealing major plot points, this scene adds an extra layer of engagement for the audience, further connecting the new adaptation with its original roots.
“Mean Girls’ post-credits scene isn’t a huge plot hook for Mean Girls 2, a surprise appearance from an old cast member, or a reprise of one of the songs. It’s an extremely short, two-line shot where Regina (sans the neck brace she’s wearing at the end of the movie), with the Plastics behind her, looks at the camera and says, ‘You’re next!’.”
Bridging the Past and Present
One of the highlights of “Mean Girls” 2024 is its connection to the original film and Broadway play through cameo appearances. Tina Fey and Tim Meadows reprise their roles, linking the new film with its predecessor. Additionally, Lindsay Lohan’s cameo as the mathletes tournament announcer serves as a delightful surprise for fans of the 2004 movie.
“There’s one small cameo from the Broadway play: Ashley Park, who originated the role of Gretchen in the musical, plays Madame Park, the school’s French teacher. For longtime fans of the 2004 movie, though, the big reveal comes at the end of the movie, when Lindsay Lohan appears in a cameo.”
In conclusion, “Mean Girls” 2024 is more than a mere reboot; it’s a reimagined, musical interpretation that pays homage to its origins while embracing modern sensibilities. This blend of the old and new not only celebrates the legacy of “Mean Girls” but also introduces it to a new generation, ensuring its enduring popularity.
