Whatever happened to the teen movie?

In this piece, we embark on a journey titled “Hollywood High” – a compelling exploration by Handy that delves not only into the realm of teen movies but also into the very essence of teenagers themselves. By charting the evolution of the genre, from the charmingly naive Andy Hardy, the popular character portrayed by Mickey Rooney in his movie series dating back to 1937, to the gritty struggles of Katniss Everdeen in the “Hunger Games” film franchise, Handy (alumnus of 1976) examines the troubled teenagers and the popular crowd, the bookworms and the clique leaders.

After ‘Final Destination: Bloodlines,’ you’ll never look at a septum piercing the same ever again

In contrast to other popular teen horror series of the late ’90s that typically featured a knife-wielding antagonist, “Final Destination” distinguished itself through its unique approach. Instead of a traditional killer, it creatively depicted how ordinary items could be transformed into deadly Rube Goldberg contraptions, triggered by carelessness or random occurrences.

The 18 summer movies we’re most excited about

Back in 2002, the initial release of “Lilo & Stitch” was praised by a former film critic from The Times as a refreshing change from typical movie formulas. He admired its unique, rebellious humor that felt less constrained and more spontaneous than any Disney film without Pixar involvement in recent memory. Over the years, I’ve grown fond of Disney movies that share this storytelling style. Now, over two decades later, the offbeat, Hawaii-set buddy comedy about a girl who loves Elvis and an unusual blue alien is being adapted for live action. Maia Kealoha plays Lilo Pelekai, while Chris Sanders, who co-wrote and co-directed the original film, reprises his role as Stitch’s voice. Joining the original cast members Tia Carrere, Amy Hill, and Jason Scott Lee are Billy Magnussen, Zach Galifianakis, Hannah Waddingham, and Courtney B. Vance. Needless to say, I can’t wait to embark on this “Hawaiian Roller Coaster Ride.” — Ashley Lee