Common Sense Media Review
By Christie Cronan
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Quirky teen comedy has drinking, lots of innuendo.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 14+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Almost Popular
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
ALMOST POPULAR follows Susie (Ruby Rose Turner) and Bobbie (Reid Miller), two high school outsiders who are desperate to be popular. Now in their junior year, the awkward duo is on a quest to become part of the elite Pop Girls, who are led by Renee Lalita (Isabella Ferreira). After a series of unfortunate humiliations, Susie and Bobbie finally get their opportunity. But at what cost?
Is It Any Good?
Mean Girls meets Napoleon Dynamite in this indie teen high school comedy that's simultaneously clichéd, quirky, edgy, and satirical. Some of the humor in Almost Popular does veer awfully close to being cringey, which teens may receive with mixed enthusiasm. But with just enough character twists from Turner, Miller, and Ferreira and a strong current of nerdy humor running through it all, this take on the classic high school coming-of-age story succeeds in celebrating outsiders while mocking stereotypes. Despite the makeup, clothes, and Pop Girl facade, this comedy ultimately offers a heartwarming, thought-provoking message for teens.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the appeal of coming-of-age films like Almost Popular. How does this one compare to other high school-set teen comedies you've seen?
Why is the teen experience such a popular subject for movies? Does this movie offer a realistic look at the complexities of today's teen culture? Why, or why not?
How would you describe the movie's messages? Do its edgier aspects get in the way of those messages at all, or help make them more memorable?
How do the characters demonstrate empathy? Why is that an important character strength?
Movie Details
- In theaters : August 28, 2025
- On DVD or streaming : September 23, 2025
- Cast : Ruby Rose Turner , Isabella Ferreira , Reid Miller
- Director : Nayip Ramos
- Inclusion Information : Latino Movie Director(s) , Female Movie Actor(s) , Latino Movie Actor(s) , Multiracial Movie Actor(s) , Female Movie Writer(s) , Latino Movie Writer(s)
- Studio : Patriot Pictures
- Genre : Comedy
- Topics : Friendship , School ( High School )
- Character Strengths : Empathy
- Run time : 95 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : September 26, 2025
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