20 Mind-Blowing Movies Like Avalon High You Can’t Miss

In the enchanting realm of young adult films, few blend modern high school dynamics with age-old legends as effortlessly as “Avalon High.” From its captivating characters to the weaving of destiny and young love, “Avalon High” remains a hallmark in cinematic storytelling for younger audiences. But what if we told you there were more cinematic gems hiding in plain sight that echo the same magic and charm? Whether you’re a die-hard fan of “Avalon High” or simply looking to recapture the same enchanting atmosphere, this curated list is bound to have you glued to the screen. Dive in as we unveil 20 mind-blowing movies like Avalon High that you won’t believe exist!

20 Mind-Blowing Movies Like Avalon High

Here are 20 movies that fans of “Avalon High” might find equally mind-blowing:

Mean Girls 2 (2011)

Mean Girls 2 is a 2011 teen comedy TV film directed by Melanie Mayron, acting as a sequel to the 2004 hit “Mean Girls.” Premiering on ABC Family on January 23 and released direct-to-video on February 1, it stars Meaghan Martin, Jennifer Stone, and Maiara Walsh, among others. Tim Meadows is the sole cast member from the original to return, playing Principal Ron Duvall. 

The narrative revolves around Jo Mitchell, a high school senior who tangles with a popular clique called “The Plastics.” Amidst high school drama, the film delves into themes like friendship, competition, and the intricate dynamics of teenage social hierarchies.

Percy Jackson: Sea of Monsters (2013)

“Percy Jackson: Sea of Monsters” is the second film in the “Percy Jackson & the Olympians” series, directed by Thor Freudenthal and based on Rick Riordan’s novels. The plot revolves around Percy Jackson, a demigod who, with his friends Annabeth and Grover, seeks the Golden Fleece to save their camp from monsters after a protective barrier is broken. Meanwhile, Percy learns of a prophecy and discovers his cyclops half-brother, Tyson. 

This film shares similarities with “Avalon High” such as mythological ties (Greek myths vs. Arthurian legends), young protagonists discovering their destinies, a school-based setting, the significance of prophecies, and the value of friendships. Both movies modernize ancient legends, showcasing young heroes navigating their exceptional fates.

The Princess Diaries (2001)

The Princess Diaries is a novel by Meg Cabot, adapted into two films by Walt Disney Pictures. The narrative revolves around Amelia “Mia” Thermopolis (Anne Hathaway), a New York City teenager who learns she’s the heir to the Genovia throne. In the 2001 film, Mia discovers her royal heritage and undergoes “princess lessons” guided by her grandmother, Queen Clarisse Renaldi (Julie Andrews). The 2004 sequel, The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement, sees Mia navigating the mandate to marry within 30 days to retain her throne. 

Key characters include Joseph (Héctor Elizondo), Genovian security head; Lilly Moscovitz (Heather Matarazzo), Mia’s best friend; and Michael Moscovitz (Robert Schwartzman), her first love. Based on Cabot’s expansive book series, the films capture Mia’s transformation from an average teen to a budding monarch, becoming modern teen film classics akin to movies like ‘Avalon High.’

The Kid Who Would Be King (2019)

The Kid Who Would Be King is a 2019 fantasy action-adventure film penned and helmed by Joe Cornish. A joint British/American production, it features Louis Ashbourne Serkis, Rebecca Ferguson, and Patrick Stewart in pivotal roles. The narrative centers on Alex, a young boy who stumbles upon King Arthur’s fabled sword, Excalibur. 

Tasked with thwarting the evil enchantress Morgana, Alex rallies his friends in an epic quest to prevent her from subduing the world. While the movie earned favorable reviews, it struggled financially at the box office, leading to substantial losses estimated at up to $50 million for the studio.

Starstruck (2010)

Starstruck, a 2010 Disney Channel Original Movie, melds romance, comedy, and musical elements. It centers on Jessica Olson (Danielle Campbell), a Michigan teen, and pop star Christopher Wilde (Sterling Knight). Visiting Los Angeles, Jessica unintentionally encounters Christopher, leading to a whirlwind adventure of avoiding paparazzi. They bond as Jessica sees Christopher beyond his celebrity status. 

2The film tackles themes like the complications of fame, authenticity, and unexpected romance. Noteworthy songs include “Starstruck,” “Something About the Sunshine,” and “Hero.” Memorable music, an intriguing plot, and palpable chemistry between the leads accentuate the story. It’s a hit for those who appreciate tales intertwining the allure and pitfalls of stardom with heartwarming romance, similar in spirit to movies like ‘Avalon High.’

Secret Society of Second-Born Royals (2020)

Secret Society of Second-Born Royals is a 2020 science fantasy superhero film directed by Anna Mastro and associated with the Disney Channel. Set in the kingdom of Illyria, it follows Sam, a rebellious princess and the kingdom’s second in line. Upon manifesting unexpected superpowers, Sam attends a unique summer school, where she learns that she and her peers are being prepared to join the Secret Society of Second-Born Royals, a team of superpowered youths safeguarding the world and serving monarchies. 

The film delves into themes of friendship, responsibility, and self-discovery. Released on Disney+ on September 25, 2020, it garnered mixed reviews, with some enjoying its entertainment value, while others found it clichéd.

Legally Blondes (2009)

Legally Blondes is a 2009 teen comedy directed by Savage Steve Holland and released directly to DVD. Serving as a spin-off to the “Legally Blonde” series, it was initially conceived as a TV series pilot. The story centers on British twin sisters, Izzy and Annie Woods, played by Milly and Becky Rosso, who relocate to Southern California. Staying with their cousin, Elle Woods, a successful lobbyist in Washington, D.C., the twins join Pacific Preparatory, Elle’s former school. 

As they adjust to a new culture and school uniforms, they tangle with characters like the affluent Tiffany Donohugh and the hardworking Chris Lopez. A cheating scandal culminates in a student court trial. The film debuted on DVD on April 28, 2009, and on ABC Family on August 2, 2009.

Blue Lagoon: The Awakening (2012)

Blue Lagoon: The Awakening is a romantic drama television film aired on Lifetime on June 16, 2012. Headlined by Indiana Evans and Brenton Thwaites, this movie is inspired by the 1908 novel “The Blue Lagoon” and its earlier screen adaptations. The story follows high school students Emma and Dean, who, after a boat party during a class trip to Trinidad, end up stranded on a lonely Caribbean island. 

Their tale of survival intertwines with a budding romantic relationship as they grapple with the challenges of isolation. Set in a modern context, the movie juxtaposes the primitive island life with their structured home society. Critics offered mixed opinions, lauding its humor and teen emotions but finding fault in its predictability and lackluster finale.

The Craft: Legacy (2020)

The Craft: Legacy is a 2020 supernatural horror film penned and helmed by Zoe Lister-Jones. Serving as both a soft reboot and sequel to the 1996 classic “The Craft,” this installment follows four teenagers—Lily, Frankie, Tabby, and Lourdes—who form a coven and delve into witchcraft. As they experiment, from freezing time to spell-casting, the narrative takes a sinister turn after they bewitch a classmate, Timmy, resulting in unforeseen and dangerous repercussions. 

The movie debuted in the U.S. through video on demand on October 28, 2020. Garnering mixed reviews, it notably clinched a nomination for the 2021 GLAAD Media Award for Outstanding Film – Wide Theatrical Release.

So Undercover (2013)

So Undercover is a 2013 American crime action comedy directed by Tom Vaughan and penned by Allan Loeb and Steven Pearl. Starring Miley Cyrus, Jeremy Piven, and Mike O’Malley, the movie was launched direct-to-video in the U.S. on February 5, 2013, but saw theatrical releases in just 13 countries. The narrative centers on Molly Morris, a Dallas-based private investigator. 

Recruited by the FBI, she dives undercover in a college sorority to guard the daughter of a vital witness in a mob case. As Molly grapples with college dynamics, sorority bonds, and protective duties towards Alex Patrone, she stumbles upon a broader conspiracy, adding layers to her mission.

Beastly (2011)

Beastly, a 2011 film adapted from Alex Flinn’s 2007 novel, modernizes the “Beauty and the Beast” tale, set in contemporary New York City. Arrogant teen Kyle Kingson (Alex Pettyfer) takes pride in his looks and ridicules the less attractive, including gothic classmate Kendra Hilferty (Mary-Kate Olsen). Unknown to him, Kendra is a witch who curses him, turning him into a disfigured version of himself. To break the curse, he must find someone to love him within a year. Renaming himself Adrian, he bonds with housekeeper Zola and blind tutor Will (Neil Patrick Harris). 

The story intensifies when Lindy Taylor (Vanessa Hudgens), a former classmate, enters his life. The movie explores themes of inner beauty vs. superficiality, redemption, and the value of human connection. Mixed reviews from critics highlighted its predictability, but performances received general acclaim.

Disenchanted (2022)

Disenchanted is a 2022 live-action/animated musical fantasy comedy directed by Adam Shankman and penned by Brigitte Hales. Serving as the sequel to the 2007 hit “Enchanted,” the film features Amy Adams, Patrick Dempsey, James Marsden, and Idina Menzel, all reprising their original roles. Set a decade after the first movie, it trails the lives of Giselle, Robert, and Morgan Philip, plus their baby Sofia, as they navigate life in Manhattan. Feeling overwhelmed, they relocated to suburban Monroeville. 

The narrative dives into themes of family and a sense of belonging and juxtaposes real life against the enchantment of fairy tales. The movie premiered at Los Angeles’ El Capitan Theatre on November 16, 2022, and debuted on Disney+ on November 18, 2022.

The School for Good and Evil (2022)

The School for Good and Evil is a 2022 American fantasy film helmed by Paul Feig, adapted from the 2013 novel by Soman Chainani. Starring Sophia Anne Caruso as Sophie and Sofia Wylie as Agatha, the film delves into the journey of two best friends sent to the Schools for Good and Evil. As their roles seemingly inverted, their bond faces intense scrutiny. 

The narrative grapples with notions of friendship and the dichotomy of good vs. evil and challenges the protagonists’ views on these themes. Released by Netflix on October 19, 2022, it garnered mixed feedback, with critics lauding the cast and visuals but critiquing its storytelling approach.

Monsterville: Cabinet of Souls (2015)

Monsterville: Cabinet of Souls is a 2015 American comedy horror film directed by Peter DeLuise, based on R.L. Stine’s 2012 novel. The plot centers around a small-town Halloween fest invaded by the evil carnival, Dr. Hysteria’s Hall of Horrors, which aims to trap and drain teenagers’ souls. Four high school friends—Beth, Kellen, Nicole, and Luke—become the carnival’s prime targets. 

Amid the eerie carnival backdrop, Beth is drawn to a new boy, Hunter, while Kellen is captivated by Lilith, a carnival worker. The duo’s journey gets entangled with dark twists as they discern the wicked schemes of Dr. Hysteria and his offspring, Hunter and Lilith. The narrative delves into themes of friendship, love, and the timeless good vs. evil conflict.

The Sorcerer’s Apprentice (2010)

The Sorcerer’s Apprentice is a 2010 action-adventure fantasy produced by Jerry Bruckheimer, directed by Jon Turteltaub, and distributed by Walt Disney Pictures. Headlined by Nicolas Cage, Jay Baruchel, Alfred Molina, and Teresa Palmer, the film unfolds in modern Manhattan. Cage plays Balthazar Blake, a sorcerer contending with his archenemy, Maxim Horvath (Molina). Balthazar mentors an unsuspecting physics student, Dave Stutler (Baruchel), who’s unveiled as the successor to Merlin’s legacy (“The Prime Merlinean”). 

Together, they grapple with treacherous challenges, seeking to thwart Horvath and Morgana le Fay (Alice Krige) from unleashing malevolent sorcerers’ souls and decimating the world. Released on July 14, 2010, the movie garnered mixed reviews, pulling in $215.3 million against its $150 million production cost.

Vampire Academy (2014)

Vampire Academy (2014) is a fantasy comedy horror directed by Mark Waters, based on Richelle Mead’s novel. Starring Zoey Deutch as Rose Hathaway, a Dhampir, and Lucy Fry as Lissa Dragomir, a Moroi, the story delves into their return to St Vladimir’s Academy, a haven for vampires and guardians, after a year in hiding. Their journey is riddled with perils and enigmas within the academy. 

Produced by Preger Entertainment and individuals including Don Murphy and Susan Montford, the film was launched in the U.S. on February 7, 2014, by The Weinstein Company. Despite its rich plot and ensemble cast, it failed critically and commercially, earning just $15.4 million against a $30 million budget, with critiques targeting its storyline, screenplay, and inconsistent tone.

High School Musical (2006)

“High School Musical” (2006) is a Disney Channel Original Movie directed by Kenny Ortega that delves into themes of romance, friendship, self-expression, and challenging high school stereotypes. The plot revolves around Troy Bolton, a basketball star, and Gabriella Montez, a brilliant newcomer, who discover their shared love for singing and audition for the school musical, disrupting the school’s established cliques. 

Similarly, “Avalon High” is set in a high school environment and addresses breaking stereotypes, self-discovery, and romantic entanglements. Both films highlight the journey of teenagers navigating challenges and finding their true selves. While “High School Musical” emphasizes musical performances, both films resonate with themes of identity and relationships in the teenage landscape.

I Am Number Four (2011)

Directed by D.J. Caruso, “I Am Number Four” is a sci-fi action film based on the novel by Pittacus Lore. The story focuses on John Smith, an alien from Lorien, who hides on Earth from the pursuing Mogadorians. Protected by a charm, he’s the fourth in line to be killed out of nine Lorien children with unique abilities called “Legacies.” John tries to assimilate by attending high school in Paradise, Ohio, where he befriends and romances Sarah. 

As his powers manifest, the threat from the Mogadorians grows. Like “Avalon High,” the film revolves around hidden identities, high school dynamics, romantic involvements, and confronting destiny, blending teenage angst with supernatural elements.

The Mortal Instruments: City of Bones (2013)

“The Mortal Instruments: City of Bones” (2013) is a fantasy action film directed by Harald Zwart, adapted from Cassandra Clare’s novel. The story follows Clary Fray, a New York teen who learns she’s a Shadowhunter, a warrior against demons. She teams up with fellow Shadowhunters Jace, Alec, Isabelle, and her friend Simon to find her missing mother and the mighty Mortal Cup. 

Similar to “Avalon High,” the movie highlights a hidden world, a protagonist discovering their identity, romantic tensions, and supernatural elements. Both movies involve quests, challenges, and the pivotal role of supportive friends, emphasizing themes of self-discovery and navigating deceiving realities.

Middle School: The Worst Years of My Life (2016)

“Middle School: The Worst Years of My Life” (2016), directed by Steve Carr, is a comedic adaptation of the 2011 novel by James Patterson and Chris Tebbetts. It centers on Rafe Khatchadorian, a creative middle schooler who challenges the school’s oppressive rules set by strict Principal Dwight. Rafe’s rebellion involves breaking every school rule with the help of his imaginary friend, Leo, who represents his deceased younger brother.

The film intertwines humor with themes of family, loss, and coping. It shares similarities with “Avalon High” regarding school setting, facing authority, the importance of friendships, deeper thematic elements, and the journey of rebellion and self-expression.

Conclusion

For those enchanted by the blend of modern teenage life with the echoes of ancient myths, as seen in “Avalon High,” the journey doesn’t have to end. From tales of forgotten royal lineages to epic battles between good and evil, these movies promise a captivating blend of romance, magic, and adventure. So the next time you’re in the mood for a cinematic escape that brings legends to life, turn to this list and let the magic unfold. And who knows? Maybe amidst these tales, you’ll find another movie that resonates with you as powerfully as “Avalon High” did.