Get Psyched for the Big Night: Our 8 Favorite Prom Movie Scenes of All Time

Prom movie scenes definitely infuse plenty of Hollywood magic into the mix, but that’s why they’re so fun, right? Maybe you won’t have Usher DJ’ing, or a choreographed dance with your entire high school class, but whether it lives up to what you see on the big screen, prom is for sure a night to remember. We’re definitely excited about prom season, so we’re celebrating with a look back at some of our favorite movie versions of the big dance. Join us, won’t you?

1. Footloose (1984)

There’s nothing like the unbridled joy of a bunch of small-town teens who are finally allowed to dance after it was outlawed for years (this plotline is just gold). The finale of this classic showcases some of the best ’80s moves we’ve ever seen and between the dancing, the titular song, the fashion (give us all the ruffled dresses!), and the young stars, it’s all just as iconic as prom movie scenes get.

2. Pretty In Pink (1986)

Ditched by her rich boyfriend, other-side-of-the-tracks-girl Andie proves “they didn’t break me” by showing up to prom alone, in a pink dress she made herself–that is, until her best friend, Duckie, shows up to escort her in. Even though she ends up taking Blane back in this classic scene (which we are kind of still on the fence about decades later), Andie’s moxie is a whole dang mood.

3. Mean Girls (2004)

Technically, the finale dance was called a “Spring Fling,” but it’s a prom, for all intents and purposes. Cady’s speech, Regina’s decorated neck brace (the original flower crown?), the Mathletes jackets, Janis and Damian’s matching purple tuxes–it’s impossible to pick just one favorite thing about this prom scene. Or any of the scenes from this movie, to be honest.

4. Never Been Kissed (1999)

OK, so while a 25-year-old journalist probably couldn’t just go undercover at a high school, even in 1999, this movie still delivers on iconic prom scenes. First of all, this prom has a theme, famous couples throughout history, which makes it even more fun. There’s Drew Barrymore avenging a past humiliation at her own prom by protecting her nerdy friend from suffering a similar fate at the hands of the “cool kids,” and Jessica Alba with very short, very ’90s haircut. And of course, there’s the impassioned speech Barrymore’s character makes about bullying, where she implores the kids to “Find out who you are–and try not to be afraid of it.” YES.

5. Back To The Future (1985)

Prom can feel like the most important moment of your life and to Marty McFly, it actually was. In order to make sure he is born, McFly has to travel back in time to his parents’ high school prom and fix their relationship. Along the way, he manages to invent rock and roll (hmm), shredding on the guitar whilst a bewildered crowd of 1950’s teens looks on. This is Michael J. Fox in his 1980’s prime–and the poufy dresses are just heaven.

6. Twilight (2008)

Does it get more romantic (in the cheesiest, best way)? Edward dances with a reluctant, cast-wearing Bella on his feet, while Iron & Wine’s “Flightless Bird, American Mouth” plays dreamily in the background. Also, the twinkly-lit gazebo is total wedding decor goals.

7. 10 Things I Hate About You (1999)

There is so much to love about this Shakespeare-turned-teen movie, and in particular, the prom scene. 1. Heath Ledger, 2. ultra-’90s alternative group, Letters To Cleo, as the prom band, 3. Bianca knocking out Joey with two punches, 4. her two-piece prom dress which is so right now, 5. all the ’90s everything. Need we say more?

8. She’s All That (1999)

Speaking of ’90s everything, this one’s got Usher as the prom DJ, a coordinated dance that the entire student body knows and does at an above-average level, a dance-off, a dude with spiky frosted blonde tips, and Freddie Prinze, Jr. Yes to all of it.

Which prom movie scene is your favorite? Tell us in the comments–and shop gorgeous prom dresses and more in our Prom Shop!

This post was originally published in January 2020 and has been updated with new content.