New Mean Girls Musical Movie Tops Box Office Despite Mixed Reviews

The remake of the 2004 classic demonstrates the enduring popularity of Mean Girls, despite feeling like a glossier version of the original.

The new Mean Girls movie, a remake of the 2004 classic, is a musical adaptation that topped the MLK holiday weekend box office with $33m, despite mixed reviews and trailers that avoided showcasing the musical numbers.
The film's success demonstrates the enduring popularity of the original Mean Girls, which remains a cultural touchstone 20 years after its release.
Despite updates to the script and new songs, the new version often feels like a glossier yet overrehearsed karaoke performance of the original.
Mean Girls' enduring relevance is attributed to its relatability, its quotability, and its timing, having been released at the advent of social media.
Though the new film attempts to appeal to younger audiences with nods to current digital culture, the original film still resonates with younger generations.