Netflix’s Do Revenge: A Modern Twist on Teen Movie References
Netflix has once again captivated audiences with its charming dark-comedy, Do Revenge, which fills the chick-flick-shaped hole in our hearts by incorporating nostalgic references to classic teen movies. Directed by Jennifer Kaytin Robinson and starring Maya Hawke and Camila Mendes, Do Revenge takes inspiration from Hitchcock’s 1951 thriller, Strangers on a Train, and explores the power dynamics of teenage girls, cliques, social media, and the satisfying allure of revenge.
A Modern Take on Teenage Drama
Jennifer Kaytin Robinson, along with screenwriter Celeste Ballard, masterfully portrays the highs and lows of teenage drama in a high-school setting, adding a unique twist to the story. The film revolves around the character Drea Torres (played by Camila Mendes), a preppy it-girl who is suddenly dismissed from her beloved clique. In an unexpected turn of events, Drea forms an unlikely friendship with Eleanor Levetan (Maya Hawke), the timid new girl at school. Together, they embark on a journey of revenge by plotting and executing acts of retaliation against their enemies, with a thrilling twist – they do each other’s revenge.
Movie References as a Nostalgic Homage
From the pastel color palette to the preppy outfits, Do Revenge captures the essence of ’90s/’00s teen dramas, drawing inspiration from iconic films of the era. The movie cleverly incorporates various references throughout its narrative, paying homage to beloved classics that resonate with audiences of all generations. Here are some of our favorite movie references in Do Revenge:
Romy and Michele’s High School Reunion (1997)
Do Revenge pays tribute to David Mirkin’s 1997 comedy, Romy and Michele’s High School Reunion. Starring Lisa Kudrow and Mira Sorvino, the film revolves around two outcast best friends who reinvent themselves with a grand entrance at their high school reunion. Similarly, Drea and Eleanor make their own grand entrance during a pivotal “take-down” scene, confronting their ultimate enemy – an ex-boyfriend.
Clueless (1995)
A timeless teen romance, Amy Heckerling’s 1995 film, Clueless, remains an iconic piece of pop culture. Do Revenge cleverly references Clueless multiple times, capturing the essence of Cher Horowitz (played by Alicia Silverstone), the original “it-girl.” From the infamous pink fluffy pen to Drea giving Eleanor a makeover akin to Tai’s transformation, the film’s nods to Clueless evoke a delightful sense of nostalgia.
10 Things I Hate About You (1999)
Gil Junger’s 10 Things I Hate About You also serves as a significant inspiration for Do Revenge. Both films revolve around unpredictable pairings and unlikely connections between characters from different social groups. In Do Revenge, Drea’s blossoming relationship with Russ, the charming British student, echoes the intriguing dynamics seen in 10 Things I Hate About You, where Kat Stratford and Patrick Verona find themselves drawn to each other. Additionally, the paint fight scene in Do Revenge’s studio mirrors the memorable paintball scene in 10 Things I Hate About You.
Scream (1996)
Do Revenge takes a slight departure from the traditional romance-centered teen films with a clever reference to Wes Craven’s 1996 horror masterpiece, Scream. While Scream explores the horrors of a masked killer, it also reflects the tensions within high-school communities. In Do Revenge, a mural on the school grounds features a scene reminiscent of Scream, depicting the main group of characters before their relationships take a dark and treacherous turn.
In addition to these notable references, Do Revenge is filled with homages and inspirations from other beloved teen films such as Mean Girls (2004), Heathers (1988), and Cruel Intentions (1999). The film acts as a love letter to its predecessors, paying tribute to the captivating world of dark teen dramas that once captured our imaginations. Its ability to recreate and reference these iconic films undoubtedly contributes to its immense popularity since its release on September 16th.
Conclusion
Do Revenge stands as a testament to the power of incorporating intricate movie references within a charismatic narrative. By infusing the essence of classic teen films into its modern take on revenge and high-school drama, the movie captures the hearts of audiences longing for a nostalgic journey. With its success on Netflix’s charts, Do Revenge proves that the allure of ’90s/’00s teen dramas remains strong, resonating with viewers across generations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is Do Revenge a standalone movie, or is there a possibility of a sequel?
As of now, Do Revenge is a standalone movie. However, the possibility of a sequel cannot be completely ruled out, considering its popularity and the potential for further exploration of teenage drama and revenge themes.
2. What sets Do Revenge apart from other teen movies available on Netflix?
Do Revenge distinguishes itself through its clever incorporation of classic movie references, creating a unique viewing experience that appeals to fans of both timeless teen films and contemporary storytelling. The combination of familiar elements with a modern twist sets Do Revenge apart from other offerings in the genre.
3. Are Maya Hawke and Camila Mendes the breakout stars of Do Revenge?
Maya Hawke and Camila Mendes deliver captivating performances in Do Revenge, showcasing their talents and solidifying their presence in the film. While they shine in their respective roles, the entire ensemble cast contributes to the movie’s success, making it difficult to single out any one actor as the sole breakout star.
4. Can Do Revenge be enjoyed by audiences who haven’t seen the films referenced?
Absolute Movie Company has ensured that Do Revenge remains accessible and enjoyable for all audiences, regardless of their familiarity with the referenced films. While viewers familiar with the classic teen movies will undoubtedly appreciate the nods and references, the narrative of Do Revenge stands strong on its own, offering a delightful cinematic experience even to those unfamiliar with the movies being referenced.
5. What makes Do Revenge a must-watch for fans of the teen drama genre?
Do Revenge encapsulates the essence of the teen drama genre by skillfully blending elements from beloved classics with a fresh and modern perspective. It strikes a perfect balance between nostalgia and contemporary storytelling, making it a must-watch for anyone craving the thrilling dynamics of high-school drama and the satisfying allure of revenge.