Prom night is one of those classic cinematic setups — glammed-up teens, dramatic slow dances, last-chance confessions, and occasionally… a little chaos (or a lot). Whether it’s full of romance, comedy, horror, or heartache, prom scenes are iconic because they tap into a moment that’s part fairytale, part emotional battlefield.
Here’s a look at 10 of the best prom-themed movies that you need to check out — from genre-defining classics to twisted takes on the big night.
1. Carrie (1976)
Genre: Horror
Why it slays:
Let’s start with the queen of prom-gone-wrong — Carrie. Brian De Palma’s adaptation of Stephen King’s debut novel is basically the prom horror movie. Sissy Spacek stars as Carrie White, a bullied teen with telekinetic powers who gets pushed just a little too far. What begins as a Cinderella moment turns into one of the most iconic scenes in horror history — blood, fire, and a prom night that nobody forgets (or survives).
Vibe: Dark, bloody, unforgettable.
2. 10 Things I Hate About You (1999)
Genre: Teen Rom-Com
Why it rocks:
A modern take on Shakespeare’s The Taming of the Shrew, this film features peak ’90s teen energy and a prom scene that delivers the perfect rom-com payoff. Julia Stiles and Heath Ledger have incredible chemistry, and the build-up to prom is full of clever banter and emotional depth. And that final scene? Chef’s kiss.
Vibe: Sarcastic, romantic, and totally quotable.
3. Prom (2011)
Genre: Teen/Drama
Why it deserves a spot:
This Disney flick takes a more wholesome, ensemble-style approach to prom night. It follows a bunch of high school students all dealing with different pressures, crushes, and complications leading up to the big night. It’s not groundbreaking, but it’s charming, and it captures that pre-prom chaos with a light touch.
Vibe: Sweet, nostalgic, teen-angsty fun.
4. Mean Girls (2004)
Genre: Comedy
Why it owns:
Okay, Mean Girls technically centers around the Spring Fling dance — but let’s not get picky. This movie defines teen girl dynamics, and that final crowning moment (literally) where Cady breaks the crown and shares it? Iconic. And don’t forget Regina George rolling up in a spinal halo like an injured prom queen legend.
Vibe: Savage, smart, endlessly rewatchable.
5. Pretty in Pink (1986)
Genre: Teen Romance/Drama
Why it’s a classic:
John Hughes knew how to write a teen story, and Pretty in Pink nails the underdog prom experience. Molly Ringwald plays Andie, the alt-girl with big style and a bigger heart, who decides to attend prom solo when her rich-boy crush ditches her. The dress, the moment, the comeback? Timeless.
Vibe: 1980s nostalgia, underdog romance.
6. She’s All That (1999)
Genre: Teen Rom-Com
Why it’s prom-perfect:
Freddie Prinze Jr. turns a bet into a makeover story that leads to unexpected love, and of course, a dramatic prom reveal. Featuring that unforgettable dance scene and a killer ’90s soundtrack, this one’s a staple in the prom movie canon — and the ultimate “ugly duckling turns swan” tale.
Vibe: Cheesy but charming — a total time capsule.
7. Napoleon Dynamite (2004)
Genre: Indie/Comedy
Why it’s low-key amazing:
Napoleon’s prom experience isn’t flashy — it’s awkward, sweet, and oddly relatable. Whether it’s Pedro nervously asking out Summer or Deb’s quietly adorable prom dress, it captures a more real (and weird) version of the big night. And yes, you’ll still laugh at “I like your sleeves. They’re real big.”
Vibe: Quirky, hilarious, and lowkey wholesome.
8. The Perks of Being a Wallflower (2012)
Genre: Coming-of-Age/Drama
Why it hits different:
This one gets deep. Based on the novel by Stephen Chbosky (who also directed), Perks follows Charlie, an introverted teen navigating trauma, friendships, and first love. The school dance isn’t your usual flashy prom scene — it’s raw, intimate, and emotional. That moment when they dance to “Come On Eileen”? Pure magic.
Vibe: Poetic, heartwarming, and gut-punching.
9. Footloose (1984)
Genre: Musical/Drama
Why it dances to the top:
In a town where dancing is banned, prom becomes a revolutionary act. Kevin Bacon plays Ren, the teen who just wants to cut loose — and the film builds up to a legendary dance party that’s full of energy, rebellion, and the kind of foot-tapping joy that defines classic prom cinema.
Vibe: Loud, rebellious, full of moves.
10. The Kissing Booth 2 (2020)
Genre: Teen Rom-Com
Why it deserves a nod:
While not entirely centered on prom, The Kissing Booth 2 has all the emotional stakes tied to senior year, college decisions, and (yup) prom drama. The prom scenes bring glamour, relationship tension, and those signature Netflix teen movie vibes — polished, dramatic, and binge-worthy.
Vibe: Modern teen chaos with glossy production.
🎬 Final Thoughts
There’s just something about prom night in movies, right? It’s either the ultimate fairy tale or a total disaster — sometimes both. These films capture all the drama, awkward moments, romance, and wild surprises that come with that one night everyone makes a big deal about.
Whether you’re in the mood for a sweet love story, a good laugh, or some full-blown chaos (looking at you, Carrie), there’s a prom movie here that totally fits the vibe. So if you’re down to relive the madness — or just enjoy it from a safe distance — any of these picks will do the trick.
Throw on your comfiest hoodie, grab some snacks, and let the fake prom drama begin!
Checkout our other movie reviews here.
