Are you the designated “DUFF” in your friend group? Don’t worry, we’ve all been there (or at least felt like it!). If you loved “The DUFF” and its hilarious take on high school hierarchies and self-discovery, you’re probably searching for your next movie fix. Luckily, the world of teen comedies is overflowing with movies like The DUFF that explore similar themes of identity, friendship, and finding your place. Get ready to dive into our ultimate list of 20 movies like The DUFF you absolutely need to watch now!
The Ultimate List: 20 Movies Like The DUFF You Need To Watch Now
This list is packed with feel-good movies, witty banter, and relatable characters, perfect for anyone who enjoys a good teen comedy. Whether you’re looking for movies similar to The DUFF that feature a makeover montage, a quirky protagonist, or a heartwarming message about self-acceptance, we’ve got you covered. So grab some popcorn, settle in, and get ready to discover your new favorite movie. Let’s explore these amazing movies that share similar vibes and themes with “The DUFF“.
What Makes a Movie Like “The DUFF”?
Before we jump into the list, let’s quickly define what makes a movie feel like “The DUFF.” Generally, these films share a few key ingredients:
- Relatable Teen Angst: They capture the awkwardness and insecurities of high school.
- Quirky Characters: Often feature characters who don’t quite fit the mold.
- Humor and Heart: Balance laugh-out-loud moments with genuine emotional depth.
- Themes of Self-Discovery: The main character usually goes on a journey to find themselves.
- Challenging Social Hierarchies: These movies often poke fun at or question high school cliques.
Now that we know what we’re looking for, let’s get to the movies!
1. Mean Girls (2004)
Summary: Cady Heron, homeschooled in Africa, enters public high school and encounters the Plastics, a trio of popular girls led by Regina George. Cady initially infiltrates the group to sabotage them, but soon becomes consumed by the same superficiality she initially despised. The film explores themes of popularity, cliques, and the pressures of fitting in.
“Mean Girls” and “The DUFF” both tackle the cutthroat world of high school popularity and the impact of social labels. While “Mean Girls” is a broader satire of high school cliques, both movies explore how these hierarchies can affect self-esteem and friendships. The protagonists in both stories experience a journey of self-discovery as they navigate the complicated social landscape of high school. They both show that seeking validation from others isn’t as important as staying true to yourself.
| Streaming Platform | Rental | Purchase | Subscription |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon Prime Video | Yes | Yes | No |
| Apple TV | Yes | Yes | No |
| Paramount+ | No | No | Yes |
2. Easy A (2010)
Summary: Olive Penderghast, a clean-cut high school student, tells a little white lie about losing her virginity to avoid a boring weekend. The rumor spreads like wildfire, and Olive, embracing the attention, begins to use the rumors to her advantage. However, the consequences of her actions soon catch up with her.
“Easy A” and “The DUFF” share a common thread of challenging labels and defying expectations. Olive, like Bianca in “The DUFF”, finds herself defined by a label, but instead of trying to escape it, she uses it to her advantage. Both movies use humor to explore serious themes of reputation, social pressure, and the importance of being true to yourself. Each movie focuses on self acceptance regardless of what others think.
| Streaming Platform | Rental | Purchase | Subscription |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon Prime Video | Yes | Yes | No |
| Apple TV | Yes | Yes | No |
| Netflix | No | No | Yes |
3. 10 Things I Hate About You (1999)
Summary: Cameron James is smitten with Bianca Stratford, but she’s forbidden from dating until her older, fiercely independent sister, Kat, does. Cameron and his friend conspire to find someone to woo Kat, leading to a hilarious and heartwarming romance.
While “10 Things I Hate About You” is a modern adaptation of Shakespeare’s “The Taming of the Shrew,” it shares thematic similarities with “The DUFF”. Both movies feature strong female characters who challenge societal expectations and find love in unexpected places. Both Kat and Bianca in “The DUFF” are independent and initially resistant to romantic relationships. Both movies emphasize the importance of looking beyond superficial appearances.
| Streaming Platform | Rental | Purchase | Subscription |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon Prime Video | Yes | Yes | No |
| Apple TV | Yes | Yes | No |
| Disney+ | No | No | Yes |
4. She’s All That (1999)
Summary: Zack Siler, the popular high school jock, makes a bet that he can transform any girl into the prom queen. He chooses Laney Boggs, an artsy and unconventional student, as his project. As Zack tries to mold Laney into his vision of the perfect girl, he unexpectedly falls for her.
“She’s All That,” like “The DUFF,” revolves around the concept of transforming someone to fit into a different social circle. While “The DUFF” subverts this trope by showing Bianca’s journey of self-acceptance, both movies examine the pressures of conforming to societal expectations. The makeover aspect is present in both films, but ultimately, both stories emphasize the importance of inner beauty and authenticity. Each movie challenges the superficiality of high school popularity.
| Streaming Platform | Rental | Purchase | Subscription |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon Prime Video | Yes | Yes | No |
| Apple TV | Yes | Yes | No |
| Hulu | No | No | Yes |
5. Clueless (1995)
Summary: Cher Horowitz, a wealthy and popular high school student in Beverly Hills, lives a life of privilege and fashion. She decides to take on a “project” by giving a new girl at school, Tai, a makeover and teaching her the ways of popularity. Cher eventually learns valuable lessons about herself and the world around her.
“Clueless” and “The DUFF” both offer a humorous and insightful look into the social dynamics of high school. Cher, like Bianca in “The DUFF,” undergoes a journey of self-discovery as she learns to look beyond superficial appearances and embrace her true self. While “Clueless” is more focused on wealth and social status, both movies explore the themes of friendship, identity, and the pressures of fitting in. Both movies offer a lighthearted take on the complexities of teenage life.
| Streaming Platform | Rental | Purchase | Subscription |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon Prime Video | Yes | Yes | No |
| Apple TV | Yes | Yes | No |
| Paramount+ | No | No | Yes |
6. The Edge of Seventeen (2016)
Summary: Nadine Franklin, a socially awkward teenager, feels completely out of place in high school. Her best friend, Krista, starts dating her popular older brother, Darian, which throws Nadine’s life into further chaos. The film explores themes of loneliness, insecurity, and the challenges of growing up.
“The Edge of Seventeen” shares a similar tone and sensibility with “The DUFF,” focusing on the struggles of a teenage girl trying to find her place in the world. Nadine, like Bianca, feels like an outsider and grapples with feelings of inadequacy. Both movies offer a realistic and relatable portrayal of teenage angst and the importance of self-acceptance. Both protagonists learn to navigate their insecurities and embrace their individuality.
| Streaming Platform | Rental | Purchase | Subscription |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon Prime Video | Yes | Yes | No |
| Apple TV | Yes | Yes | No |
| Hulu | No | No | Yes |
7. Booksmart (2019)
Summary: Amy and Molly, two high-achieving students who spent their entire high school careers focused on academics, realize they missed out on having fun. On the eve of graduation, they decide to cram four years of partying into one wild night.
“Booksmart” provides a fresh take on the teen comedy genre, similar to how “The DUFF” offered a modern perspective on high school tropes. While the plot differs, both movies explore the idea of breaking free from expectations and discovering new sides of yourself. Amy and Molly, like Bianca, challenge the labels that have been placed upon them and learn the importance of balance and self-discovery. The humor in both movies stems from relatable situations and witty dialogue.
| Streaming Platform | Rental | Purchase | Subscription |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon Prime Video | Yes | Yes | No |
| Apple TV | Yes | Yes | No |
| Hulu | No | No | Yes |
8. To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before (2018)
Summary: Lara Jean Covey’s secret love letters to all the boys she’s ever had a crush on are mysteriously mailed out, throwing her life into chaos. She enters into a fake relationship with one of the recipients, Peter Kavinsky, which eventually blossoms into something real.
“To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before” is a heartwarming and charming teen romance that shares the feel-good vibes of “The DUFF”. Lara Jean, like Bianca, is a relatable and endearing protagonist who undergoes a journey of self-discovery. Both movies explore themes of first love, friendship, and the importance of being true to yourself. The lighthearted tone and engaging storylines make both films highly enjoyable.
| Streaming Platform | Rental | Purchase | Subscription |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon Prime Video | No | No | No |
| Apple TV | No | No | No |
| Netflix | No | No | Yes |
9. A Cinderella Story (2004)
Summary: Sam Montgomery, a high school student living with her stepmother and stepsisters, dreams of attending Princeton University. She connects with a mysterious student online, whom she later discovers is the popular quarterback, Austin Ames.
“A Cinderella Story,” a modern retelling of the classic fairytale, shares the theme of overcoming adversity and finding love in unexpected places, similar to “The DUFF”. Sam, like Bianca, is initially underestimated by those around her. Both movies highlight the importance of looking beyond superficial appearances and embracing one’s true self. The romantic storylines in both films are heartwarming and engaging.
| Streaming Platform | Rental | Purchase | Subscription |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon Prime Video | Yes | Yes | No |
| Apple TV | Yes | Yes | No |
| Hulu | No | No | Yes |
10. The Princess Diaries (2001)
Summary: Mia Thermopolis, a shy and awkward teenager living in San Francisco, discovers that she is the heir to the throne of Genovia. She must learn to navigate the world of royalty while also dealing with the challenges of high school.
“The Princess Diaries” and “The DUFF” both feature protagonists who undergo a significant transformation. Mia, like Bianca, is initially an outsider who must navigate a new and unfamiliar world. Both movies explore themes of self-discovery, identity, and the pressures of fitting in. The heartwarming storylines and engaging characters make both films highly enjoyable.
| Streaming Platform | Rental | Purchase | Subscription |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon Prime Video | No | Yes | No |
| Apple TV | No | Yes | Disney+ |
| Disney+ | No | No | Yes |
11. Angus, Thongs and Perfect Snogging (2008)
Summary: Georgia Nicolson, a British teenager, navigates the ups and downs of adolescence, including crushes, friendships, and embarrassing family moments. She’s determined to get a boyfriend and have the perfect first kiss.
“Angus, Thongs and Perfect Snogging” offers a hilarious and relatable portrayal of teenage life, similar to “The DUFF”. Georgia, like Bianca, is a quirky and endearing protagonist who grapples with insecurities and awkward moments. Both movies explore themes of self-discovery, friendship, and the pressures of fitting in. The humor is often self-deprecating and relatable, making both films highly enjoyable.
| Streaming Platform | Rental | Purchase | Subscription |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon Prime Video | Yes | Yes | No |
| Apple TV | Yes | Yes | No |
| Paramount+ | No | No | Yes |
12. Perks of Being a Wallflower (2012)
Summary: Charlie Kelmeckis, a shy and introverted teenager, navigates the challenges of high school while dealing with his mental health. He finds solace and friendship with two older students, Sam and Patrick, who help him discover himself.
“The Perks of Being a Wallflower” is a more introspective and emotionally driven film than “The DUFF,” but it shares the theme of finding your place in the world and embracing your individuality. Charlie, like Bianca, is an outsider who struggles with self-acceptance. Both movies explore themes of friendship, identity, and the importance of connecting with others. While “Perks” deals with more serious issues, both films offer a message of hope and resilience.
| Streaming Platform | Rental | Purchase | Subscription |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon Prime Video | Yes | Yes | No |
| Apple TV | Yes | Yes | No |
| Hulu | No | No | Yes |
13. Sydney White (2007)
Summary: Sydney White, a freshman at college, rebels against the Greek system after realizing the sorority she pledged isn’t what she expected. She finds friendship and acceptance with seven socially awkward students.
“Sydney White,” a modern take on Snow White, shares the theme of challenging social hierarchies and finding your own tribe, similar to “The DUFF”. Sydney, like Bianca, refuses to conform to societal expectations and finds acceptance with a group of outsiders. Both movies explore the importance of friendship and the value of being true to yourself. The lighthearted tone and engaging characters make both films enjoyable.
| Streaming Platform | Rental | Purchase | Subscription |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon Prime Video | Yes | Yes | No |
| Apple TV | Yes | Yes | No |
| No | No | No | No |
14. Wild Child (2008)
Summary: Poppy Moore, a spoiled and rebellious teenager from Malibu, is sent to a strict boarding school in England to learn discipline. She initially clashes with her new environment but eventually learns valuable lessons about friendship and responsibility.
“Wild Child” and “The DUFF” both feature protagonists who undergo a significant transformation. Poppy, like Bianca, is initially self-centered and must learn to see beyond her own needs. Both movies explore themes of self-discovery, friendship, and the importance of personal growth. The humorous situations and engaging characters make both films highly enjoyable.
| Streaming Platform | Rental | Purchase | Subscription |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon Prime Video | Yes | Yes | No |
| Apple TV | Yes | Yes | No |
| Peacock | No | No | Yes |
15. Flipped (2010)
Summary: Juli Baker has had a crush on Bryce Loski since the second grade. Bryce, however, has always been annoyed by Juli’s relentless pursuit. As they enter high school, their feelings begin to change, and they start to see each other in a new light.
“Flipped” offers a unique perspective on young love and self-discovery, similar to the themes explored in “The DUFF”. Juli and Bryce, like Bianca and Wesley, must overcome their initial assumptions and prejudices to see each other for who they truly are. Both movies explore the importance of empathy, understanding, and looking beyond superficial appearances. The heartwarming storyline and engaging characters make “Flipped” a charming and relatable film.
| Streaming Platform | Rental | Purchase | Subscription |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon Prime Video | No | No | No |
| Apple TV | Yes | Yes | No |
| No | No | No | No |
16. A Simple Wish (1997)
Summary: An aspiring actress’s wish for her father to win a role in a Broadway musical is granted by a bumbling fairy godfather. However, things go awry when a disgruntled fellow fairy tries to sabotage their plans.
While “A Simple Wish” contains magical elements absent in “The DUFF,” both movies center on characters facing extraordinary situations that impact their self-perception and relationships. Anabel, much like Bianca, learns valuable lessons about believing in herself and the importance of inner strength, even when external forces challenge her. The theme of self-acceptance, despite imperfections, resonates in both films.
| Streaming Platform | Rental | Purchase | Subscription |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon Prime Video | Yes | Yes | No |
| Apple TV | Yes | Yes | No |
| No | No | No | No |
17. What a Girl Wants (2003)
Summary: Daphne Reynolds, a free-spirited American teenager, travels to London to find her estranged father, a British politician. She navigates the unfamiliar world of high society while trying to connect with her father and stay true to herself.
“What a Girl Wants” shares similarities with “The DUFF” in its exploration of identity and belonging. Daphne, like Bianca, finds herself in a situation where she feels like an outsider and must navigate unfamiliar social dynamics. Both movies emphasize the importance of staying true to yourself, even when faced with pressure to conform. The lighthearted tone and themes of family and self-discovery make both films appealing.
| Streaming Platform | Rental | Purchase | Subscription |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon Prime Video | Yes | Yes | No |
| Apple TV | Yes | Yes | No |
| No | No | No | No |
18. Miss Congeniality (2000)
Summary: Gracie Hart, a tough and unconventional FBI agent, goes undercover as a beauty pageant contestant to prevent a terrorist attack. She must learn to navigate the world of beauty pageants while maintaining her tough exterior.
While “Miss Congeniality” is primarily an action-comedy, it shares the theme of challenging expectations and embracing individuality, similar to “The DUFF”. Gracie, like Bianca, is an outsider who must adapt to a new environment and challenge societal norms. Both movies explore the idea that appearances can be deceiving and that inner strength is more important than outward beauty. The humorous situations and engaging characters make both films highly enjoyable.
| Streaming Platform | Rental | Purchase | Subscription |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon Prime Video | Yes | Yes | No |
| Apple TV | Yes | Yes | No |
| No | No | No | No |
19. Bring It On (2000)
Summary: Torrance Shipman, the cheerleading captain of the Rancho Carne Toros, discovers that their routines have been stolen from another squad. She must come up with a new routine and lead her team to victory at the national championships.
“Bring It On” and “The DUFF” both explore the competitive nature of high school and the pressures of maintaining a certain image. Torrance, like Bianca, must confront challenges and overcome obstacles to achieve her goals. Both movies emphasize the importance of teamwork, perseverance, and staying true to yourself. The energetic performances and engaging storylines make both films highly entertaining.
| Streaming Platform | Rental | Purchase | Subscription |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon Prime Video | Yes | Yes | No |
| Apple TV | Yes | Yes | No |
| No | No | No | No |
20. Never Been Kissed (1999)
Summary: Josie Geller, a copy editor at a Chicago newspaper, goes undercover as a high school student to report on teenage life. She struggles to fit in and relive the awkwardness of her own high school experience.
“Never Been Kissed” shares the theme of self-discovery and overcoming past insecurities, similar to “The DUFF.” Josie, like Bianca, must confront her own perceptions of herself and learn to embrace her true identity. Both movies explore the challenges of high school social dynamics and the importance of self-acceptance. The humorous situations and heartwarming moments make both films enjoyable.
| Streaming Platform | Rental | Purchase | Subscription |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon Prime Video | Yes | Yes | No |
| Apple TV | Yes | Yes | No |
| Hulu | No | No | Yes |
Conclusion
So, there you have it! Twenty fantastic movies like The DUFF that are sure to entertain and resonate with anyone who’s ever felt like they didn’t quite fit in. From hilarious comedies to heartwarming romances, this list offers something for everyone. So, which movie are you going to watch first? Don’t forget that you can find movies similar to The DUFF that showcase diverse stories about navigating the complexities of teenage life. These movies, much like The DUFF, remind us that embracing our true selves and finding genuine connection is what truly matters. Enjoy your movie marathon!
FAQ
Q: What is “The DUFF” about?
A: “The DUFF” is a teen comedy about Bianca, a high school senior who learns she’s been labeled the “DUFF” (Designated Ugly Fat Friend) of her friend group. She sets out to change her image and redefine herself.
Q: What are some of the main themes in movies like “The DUFF”?
A: Common themes include self-discovery, challenging social hierarchies, the pressures of fitting in, the importance of friendship, and embracing individuality.
Q: Are all the movies on this list comedies?
A: While most of the movies have comedic elements, some also explore more serious themes and emotions.
Q: Where can I watch these movies?
A: The availability of these movies varies depending on your region and streaming service. Check the provided tables for each movie to see where you can rent, purchase, or stream them.
