Discover 28 Movies Like ‘13 Going On 30’ That Will Leave You Feeling 30, Flirty & Thriving

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“Matty! It’s ‘Thriller’!” This iconic line encapsulates why Jennifer Garner’s 2004 film 13 Going On 30 remains a beloved classic. Released over a decade ago, the film continues to charm audiences of all ages—thanks in part to pop star Ariana Grande donning the same dress as Jenna Rink in her music video. Additionally, Christa B. Allen, who portrayed young Jenna, celebrated her own 30th birthday in 2021 by wearing that iconic dress. No matter how you look at it, this film is a nostalgic early 2000s treasure, perfect for family viewing with tweens or teens. After you’ve watched it for the hundredth time, you’ll likely be on the hunt for similar feel-good films. Fear not; like Jenna’s campaign to save Poise Magazine, we’ve gathered a list of delightful movies to enjoy while munching on Razzles.

What makes 13 Going On 30 so memorable? For starters, it’s packed with ’90s nostalgia. Then, there’s the stellar cast: Jennifer Garner (Jenna), Mark Ruffalo (Matt Flamhaff), Judy Greer (Lucy Wyman), Andy Serkis (Richard Kneeland), Kathy Baker (Bev Rink), and more. The plot is equally entertaining: a 13-year-old girl wishes to be a 30-year-old adult and miraculously gets her wish on her birthday. However, she hilariously navigates her new life as a magazine editor while dealing with her frenemy, Lucy.

Greer shared with Insider on the film’s 15th anniversary that filming was an unforgettable experience, especially the dance scenes. Although playing a mean girl was challenging for her, she wished the project had been a TV show, saying, “This is a job I’d want to go to every day for eight years.” While there have been talks of a sequel or reboot, nothing is confirmed yet—though a TV series would certainly excite fans.

Until that day comes, here’s a selection of films to watch while you wait.

Sweet and Sentimental Movies Similar to 13 Going On 30

  1. Miss Congeniality (2000)
    Sandra Bullock shines in this film about an FBI agent who goes undercover at a beauty pageant. Despite her discomfort in heels, she ultimately learns about herself, much like Jenna Rink.
  2. Freaky Friday (2003)
    The 2003 remake featuring Lindsay Lohan and Jamie Lee Curtis is a must-see. A mother and daughter swap bodies and gain new insights into each other’s lives, echoing Jenna’s journey.
  3. The Devil Wears Prada (2006)
    If you enjoyed the workplace dynamics in 13 Going On 30, this film starring Meryl Streep and Anne Hathaway is a fantastic rewatch. It’s another iconic tale set in the fashion world.
  4. She’s All That (1999)
    While not supernatural, this teen movie features Freddie Prinze Jr. and Rachel Leigh Cook in a classic makeover narrative that remains entertaining, albeit somewhat problematic.
  5. Never Been Kissed (1999)
    Drew Barrymore stars as a journalist who goes undercover in high school, aiming to relive her teenage years in a more favorable light.
  6. Love & Basketball (2000)
    This movie is a timeless favorite, telling the story of childhood friends Monica (Sanaa Lathan) and Quincy (Omar Epps) whose bond deepens over time, all set against the backdrop of basketball.
  7. 17 Again (2009)
    Zac Efron and Matthew Perry star in this fresh twist on the theme of youth, where a man gets a second chance at high school life and must choose between reliving the past or facing his present.
  8. What Women Want (2000)
    A chauvinistic advertising executive gains the ability to read women’s thoughts, leading to humorous and enlightening situations—especially when he falls for his boss.

More Whimsical Rom-Coms to Enjoy

  • Uptown Girls (2003)
  • Big (1988)
  • When in Rome (2010)
  • Hitch (2005)
  • Just Like Heaven (2005)
  • Wild Child (2008)
  • Clueless (1995)
  • Ghosts of Girlfriends Past (2009)
  • Kate & Leopold (2001)
  • Love Jones (1997)
  • Penelope (2006)
  • Love, Rosie (2014)
  • Can’t Hardly Wait (1998)
  • Serendipity (2001)
  • Beauty Shop (2005)
  • The Holiday (2006)
  • Splash (1984)
  • Little (2019)
  • Coming to America (1988)
  • The Princess Diaries (2001)
  • Maid in Manhattan (2002)

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Summary:

If you’re a fan of 13 Going On 30, you’re in for a treat with these 28 delightful movies. From undercover antics to heartwarming romances, this list boasts a variety of films that capture the same charm and nostalgia. Enjoy your movie night with friends or family, and don’t forget the Razzles!