Decoding the Mean Girls Multiverse: How the Cinematic Universe Works
A deep dive into the complex relationship between 2004's Mean Girls and the 2024 movie musical, exploring the concept of a Mean Girls multiverse and the implications of its existence.
The Origins of the Mean Girls Universe
The Mean Girls movie musical of 2024 is a contemporary adaptation of the iconic 2004 film, introducing a new generation to the captivating tale of Cady Heron and the Plastics. Inspired by Rosalind Wiseman's book, Queen Bees and Wannabees, the original Mean Girls set the stage for the timeless narrative of teenage girl rivalry and bullying. Over the years, the franchise expanded with a stage musical adaptation in 2017, followed by the release of the film adaptation in January 2024.
Ms. Norbury (Tina Fey) sits at her desk in front of the chalkboard in her classroom in Mean Girls (2024).
The 2024 movie musical, while making updates to align with the present-day setting, remains faithful to the essence of the original, incorporating musical numbers to enhance the storytelling. The question arises: Do these iterations of Mean Girls coexist in the same universe? Tina Fey, the original writer and star, sheds light on this enigmatic concept, likening the Mean Girls multiverse to the Spider-Man multiverse, where various versions of the characters and events exist simultaneously without disrupting the canonicity of each other.
Ms. Norbury (Tina Fey) talking in the gym in Mean Girls (2024).
Navigating the Complex Mean Girls Multiverse
Tina Fey's perspective on the Mean Girls multiverse aligns with the reprisals of the original characters by the same actors in the 2024 movie. Fey emphasizes that the characters of Ms. Norbury and Principal Duvall are portrayed as older versions of their counterparts in the original Mean Girls, still working at North Shore High after two decades. This unique interpretation allows for the coexistence of different versions of the characters within the multiverse, offering a fresh perspective on the interconnectedness of the Mean Girls narrative.
Principal Duvall (Tim Meadows) sitting at his desk in his office while reading the Burn Book in Mean Girls (2024).
However, the presence of Lindsay Lohan, reprising her role from the 2004 Mean Girls in a new character in the 2024 movie, introduces a layer of complexity to the shared universe concept. Lohan's cameo, along with intentional callbacks to the original film, presents a challenge in reconciling the two movies within a single universe. The intricacies of the Mean Girls multiverse raise thought-provoking questions about the interconnectedness of storylines and characters across different iterations, opening doors to new interpretations and theories.
The Plastics walking outside the school in Mean Girls (2024).
Deciphering the Implications of the Mean Girls Multiverse
The presence of a Mean Girls multiverse offers an innovative approach to storytelling, allowing for the coexistence of diverse versions of the narrative without compromising their individual integrity. While the notion of a shared universe is challenged by the complexities introduced in the 2024 movie, the concept of a multiverse provides a compelling framework for understanding the interconnected nature of the Mean Girls cinematic universe. It invites audiences to explore the intricate web of characters, events, and timelines, enriching the overall narrative experience and sparking engaging discussions within the fandom.
Damian, Cady, and Janis peeking through bushes in Mean Girls (2024).
Ultimately, the Mean Girls multiverse serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of the franchise, transcending traditional narrative boundaries to embrace the multiplicity of storytelling possibilities. As fans continue to unravel the mysteries of the Mean Girls multiverse, the allure of parallel universes and interconnected storylines captivates the imagination, reinforcing the timeless appeal of the Mean Girls saga.
Cady Taking Off Her Spring Fling Queen Crown In Mean Girls 2004.jpg
