13 Going on 30 is a beloved romantic comedy that captured hearts with its charming premise of a 13-year-old girl wishing to be “thirty, flirty, and thriving.” Jennifer Garner’s endearing performance as the grown-up Jenna Rink, navigating adulthood with a teenage mindset, resonated with audiences. The film’s themes of self-discovery, friendship, and the importance of staying true to oneself make it a timeless classic.
If you adored 13 Going on 30 and are craving more feel-good movies with similar vibes, look no further. We’ve compiled a list of 15 delightful films that capture the essence of this beloved rom-com. From magical body swaps to second chances at life, these movies will make you laugh, cry, and feel young again.
1. Big (1988)
Big is often considered the original “child-in-an-adult-body” movie. Tom Hanks stars as Josh Baskin, a 12-year-old boy who makes a wish to be “big” and wakes up the next morning as a 30-year-old man. Josh must navigate the adult world while maintaining his childlike wonder and innocence. Hanks’ brilliant performance earned him an Academy Award nomination and cemented Big as a classic.
2. Freaky Friday (2003)
In this hilarious body-swap comedy, Jamie Lee Curtis and Lindsay Lohan star as a mother and daughter who accidentally switch bodies. As they navigate each other’s lives, they gain a newfound appreciation for one another’s struggles. Freaky Friday is a heartwarming tale of family, understanding, and the challenges of being a teenager and a parent.
3. 17 Again (2009)
Zac Efron stars as Mike O’Donnell, a 37-year-old man who wakes up one day to find himself back in his 17-year-old body. Given a second chance at life, Mike attempts to fix the mistakes of his past while reconnecting with his teenage children. 17 Again is a charming and funny film about the importance of family, friendship, and following your dreams.
4. 13 Going on 30 (2004)
Of course, we can’t forget the movie that inspired this list! Jennifer Garner stars as Jenna Rink, a 13-year-old girl who wishes to be 30 and wakes up to find her wish has come true. As Jenna navigates the adult world with a teenage mindset, she learns valuable lessons about love, friendship, and being true to herself. 13 Going on 30 is a delightful and heartwarming film that will make you laugh, cry, and appreciate the magic of growing up.
5. Suddenly 30 (2004)
Suddenly 30 is the Australian remake of 13 Going on 30, starring Jenna Elfman as Jenna Rink. While the plot remains largely the same, the film offers a fresh take on the beloved story with its Australian setting and cast. If you loved the original, Suddenly 30 is definitely worth a watch.
6. The Devil Wears Prada (2006)
While not a body-swap or age-change movie, The Devil Wears Prada shares similar themes of self-discovery and staying true to oneself. Anne Hathaway stars as Andy Sachs, a naive young woman who lands a job as an assistant to the demanding editor-in-chief of a prestigious fashion magazine, played by Meryl Streep. As Andy navigates the cutthroat world of fashion, she learns valuable lessons about ambition, integrity, and the importance of staying true to her values.
7. Legally Blonde (2001)
Legally Blonde follows Elle Woods (Reese Witherspoon), a sorority girl who enrolls at Harvard Law School to win back her ex-boyfriend. As Elle navigates the competitive world of law school, she learns to embrace her unique qualities and prove that she’s more than just a pretty face. Like Jenna in 13 Going on 30, Elle’s journey is one of self-discovery and learning to love herself for who she is.
8. Mean Girls (2004)
Mean Girls is a hilarious and quotable teen comedy that explores the complexities of high school social hierarchies. Lindsay Lohan stars as Cady Heron, a 16-year-old girl who joins a new school and becomes entangled with the popular clique known as “The Plastics.” As Cady navigates the treacherous waters of teenage popularity, she learns valuable lessons about friendship, authenticity, and the importance of staying true to oneself.
9. 13 Going on 30: Music from the Motion Picture (2004)
While not a movie, the 13 Going on 30 soundtrack is a must-listen for fans of the film. Featuring iconic 80s hits like “Love Is a Battlefield” by Pat Benatar and “Jessie’s Girl” by Rick Springfield, the soundtrack perfectly captures the nostalgic and feel-good vibes of the movie. Put on your headphones, press play, and let the music transport you back to Jenna’s colorful and magical world.
10. 13 Going on 30: Jenna’s Scrapbook (2004)
For a deeper dive into the world of 13 Going on 30, check out Jenna’s Scrapbook, a companion book to the film. Filled with photos, quotes, and behind-the-scenes tidbits, this scrapbook offers a unique and intimate look at Jenna’s journey from awkward teenager to successful adult. It’s a must-have for any fan of the movie.
11. Pitch Perfect (2012)
Pitch Perfect follows Beca (Anna Kendrick), a college freshman who joins an all-female a cappella group and helps them compete in the cutthroat world of collegiate a cappella. With its witty humor, catchy musical numbers, and themes of friendship and self-discovery, Pitch Perfect shares many similarities with 13 Going on 30. Both films celebrate the power of female friendships and the importance of staying true to oneself.
12. She’s the Man (2006)
In this modern retelling of Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night, Amanda Bynes stars as Viola, a teenage girl who disguises herself as her twin brother to play on the boys’ soccer team. As Viola navigates the challenges of pretending to be someone she’s not, she learns valuable lessons about gender, identity, and the importance of being true to oneself. She’s the Man is a hilarious and heartwarming film that celebrates individuality and breaking down gender stereotypes.
13. 13 Going on 30: Fun and Flirty Edition (2009)
For fans who can’t get enough of 13 Going on 30, the Fun and Flirty Edition DVD is a must-have. This special edition includes deleted scenes, behind-the-scenes featurettes, and a hilarious blooper reel. It’s the perfect way to relive all the magic and humor of the film while gaining new insights into the making of this beloved classic.
14. 13 Going on 30: A Novel (2004)
If you love the story of 13 Going on 30 and want to experience it in a new way, check out the novelization of the film. Written by Christa Roberts, this book follows the same plot as the movie but offers a deeper dive into Jenna’s thoughts and feelings as she navigates the challenges of adulthood. It’s a fun and easy read that will transport you back into the colorful and magical world of the film.
15. 13 Going on 30: The Musical (TBA)
Exciting news for fans of 13 Going on 30: a musical adaptation of the film is currently in development! While details are scarce at the moment, the prospect of seeing Jenna’s story come to life on stage is thrilling. With its themes of self-discovery, friendship, and the power of staying true to oneself, 13 Going on 30 is the perfect fit for a musical adaptation. Keep an eye out for updates on this exciting project!
In conclusion, if you loved 13 Going on 30 and are craving more feel-good movies with similar themes and vibes, these 15 films are sure to satisfy. From magical body swaps to second chances at life, these movies celebrate the power of self-discovery, friendship, and the importance of staying true to oneself. So grab some popcorn, settle in, and get ready to laugh, cry, and feel young again with these delightful films.
