The Cultural Phenomenon of “Mean Girls” Continues: Celebrating ‘Mean Girls Day’ with Free Streaming on TikTok

Tina Fey’s “Mean Girls” Continues to Make Waves on “Mean Girls Day”

By | October 3, 2023 | New York Times

What started as a simple exchange of words in the hit 2004 film “Mean Girls” has now turned into an annual celebration known as “Mean Girls Day.” On October 3rd, fans of the cult classic gather to commemorate the iconic line spoken by Lindsay Lohan’s character, Cady Heron: “It’s October 3rd.”

The Birth of “Mean Girls Day”

In the realm of popular culture, certain moments and lines have the power to transcend the screen. Tina Fey, the brilliant creator behind “Mean Girls,” tapped into this phenomenon when she wrote that seemingly innocuous exchange between Aaron Samuels and Cady Heron. Little did she know that those four words would become etched into the cultural fabric, giving birth to an annual celebration now observed worldwide as “Mean Girls Day.”

Now, almost two decades later, “Mean Girls” continues to captivate audiences across generations. This year, Paramount Pictures has made the movie available for free on TikTok, in 23 parts, allowing fans to relive the hilariously biting yet relatable high school experiences of Cady and the infamous Plastics.

From Movie to Musical

What sets “Mean Girls” apart from many other films is the seamless transition it made from the silver screen to the Broadway stage. In 2018, Fey adapted her screenplay into a musical, further solidifying the cultural significance of the story. The “Mean Girls” musical, with its catchy songs and sharp wit, has been met with critical acclaim and enthusiastic audiences.

Building upon the success of the musical, Tina Fey has decided to auction the annotated script of “Mean Girls: The Musical” as a special tribute to “Mean Girls Day.” This unique piece of memorabilia contains Fey’s own handwritten notes and sketches, providing insight into the creative process behind both the original film and the musical adaptation.

A Glimpse into Fey’s Creative Mind

The auction promises to delight fans and collectors alike with extras included in the annotated script. Fey’s sketches, such as the portrayal of Regina George’s mother, Mrs. June George, played in the film by the talented Amy Poehler, showcase her appreciation for the iconic performances. Handwritten quips and comments throughout the script, such as “You’re nearly done reading this” and “Jesus Christ this script is long,” give us a glimpse into Fey’s creative and humorous mind.

Tina Fey is part of a notable group of Hollywood, Broadway, and West End A-listers who have donated first editions of their work to charitable causes. Alongside Fey’s script, Richard Curtis’ original “Love Actually” script and an annotated rare edition of “The Vagina Monologues” by V (formerly Eve Ensler) are also up for auction.

The Continuing Cultural Phenomenon

It is remarkable that a film like “Mean Girls” can create such a lasting impact, resonating deeply with audiences long after its release. The story of navigating high school cliques and the timeless themes of kindness, empowerment, and self-discovery depicted in the film and musical still strike a chord with people today. This enduring relevance is a testament to the incredible talent and vision of Tina Fey.

Advice for Future Generations

Mean Girls Day serves as a reminder that even the smallest moments can have a profound impact. It encourages us to reflect on the power of words, the importance of friendship, and the impact we have on others. As we celebrate this cultural phenomenon, it is crucial to pass on the lessons learned from “Mean Girls” to future generations.

Above all, the film teaches us the significance of empathy and standing up against bullying. By fostering a supportive and inclusive environment, we can create a world where everyone feels accepted and celebrated for who they are.

So, on this special day, let’s come together, whether in-person or virtually, to revel in the hilarity and wisdom of “Mean Girls.” Let’s keep the spirit of Cady Heron alive and continue to advocate for a kinder, more compassionate society. Happy Mean Girls Day!