‘Mean Girls’ movie musical: a cinematic flop

The growing world of movie musicals is a diverse and inviting place where beloved musicals come to life on the big screen, thrilling long-time fans. Entering the chromatic, jazzy ambiance of Damien Chazelle’s “La La Land,” viewers are charmed by the beauty and art of jazz and the symbolism of colors. With the release of Lin-Manuel Miranda’s “Tick, Tick… Boom!” in 2021, one is swept away into the musical, chaotic and heartbreaking story of Jonathan Larson’s life as an aspiring playwright. Each spontaneous break into song makes the film that much more delightful and the theatrical choreography adds another layer of enjoyment. 

So, when the new “Mean Girls” movie musical released in theaters on Jan. 12, excitement was brewing to see the rise and demise of Cady Heron and Regina George in a new presentation. Upon leaving the theater, though, many were left with one conclusion- this film deserves a place in its own “Burn Book.”

 Tina Fey, who plays Cady’s calculus teacher, Ms. Norbury, was one of the only aspects of the film that did not disappoint. Her blunt humor always got a laugh, whether it was a comment made in Cady’s math class or elsewhere. More specifically, Fey’s address to all the girls in North Shore High demonstrates how multifaceted of an actor she is. Not only is she a guaranteed laugh on screen, but she is also capable of conveying one of the deeper messages that the film explores: ending gossip and bullying culture in favor of treating people with respect and kindness. 

The conclusion of this scene is another reason why some had a very difficult time enjoying the film. Janis, played by Auli’i Cravalho, exposes the flaws that she has seen manifest and surge in both Cady and Regina – two best friends-turned-enemies. She confesses to all the girls that she would rather be her authentic self than try to become someone she is not.

With that, she suddenly bursts into song while prancing through the hallways and classrooms of North Shore High. This is one of the many instances where viewers can easily tune out; it became a chore to bear one more ridiculous song and dance about something that could be displayed through dialogue.

While the purpose of the film is to recreate the Broadway musical on the screen, some choices that were made concerning the songs could have been better. A good example of this is the song “Apex Predator.” Angourie Rice, who plays Cady in the film, is unable to hit the belting notes, causing Damian, played by Jaquel Spivey, to pick up the slack.

When crafting a movie musical, especially one based on a successful musical, directors need to be sure that the actors that are cast can sing the songs successfully. Otherwise, the film will be left with underwhelming renditions of powerful Broadway hits, as well as abridged versions of songs that fans of the musical were no doubt awaiting hearing in full.

On a five-star rating basis, this production is lucky to walk away with a star and a half. Call it harsh – or, more appropriately, mean – but this movie-musical failed to live up to viewers’ expectations of a dynamic and engaging cinematic experience. In other words, it was so not “fetch.”