American Pie

Four high-school friends set a crude but clear goal for their senior year: they want to lose their virginity before college. To push each other, they make a pact and spend months making awkward plans, flirting with the wrong people and stumbling through cringe-worthy setups. The movie follows their separate attempts at romance and hookup schemes, but it’s as much about how their friendships shift under pressure as it is about any single conquest. Scenes swing from painfully embarrassing to unexpectedly tender, and the story keeps things light while showing how teenage priorities and insecurities collide as graduation approaches.

Released in 1999, American Pie was directed by Paul Weitz and written by Adam Herz, featuring an ensemble cast led by Jason Biggs, Chris Klein, Thomas Ian Nicholas, Alyson Hannigan and Shannon Elizabeth.

The film turned into a surprise commercial hit that kicked off a multi-picture franchise, with several sequels and spin-offs following its popularity and cultural footprint.

Many moments became shorthand for late 90s teen comedy, including an infamous bedroom scene and Michelle’s character delivering memorable revelations that entered pop culture. The film’s frank approach to teenage sexuality and its recurring gags have been referenced and parodied across TV and film.

Critical reaction was mixed to positive, reflected in a vote average near 6.6 from thousands of viewers. Reviewers noted the strong ensemble chemistry and blunt humor, while some critiqued its reliance on raunchy jokes. Themes include sexual awkwardness, peer pressure, friendship and the messy transition from adolescence toward adulthood.