Valley Girl (2020)

Valley Girl (2020) is a fizzy, neon-bright love story that knows exactly how to use an ’80s new wave soundtrack—not as wallpaper, but as the movie’s heartbeat, turning swoons and heartbreak into a buoyant jukebox rush. Jessica Rothe gives Julie a winning mix of sweetness and spine, so the romance feels less like a gimmick and more like a young woman discovering who she is when the “right” crowd starts to feel wrong. The vibe is pure mall-pop nostalgia with punk-rock edge, playful and sincere in the same breath, and it glides along with the kind of easy charm that makes you forget to check the time. If you’re allergic to musicals or prefer your teen romance with sharper teeth, it may not convert you—but if you want a fun, affectionate escape that wears its heart on its sleeve, this one earns the rewatch.

Valley Girl (2020) is clearly aiming to be a candy-colored, new-wave jukebox romance that celebrates first love and choosing your own path, and it does have a likable lead in Jessica Rothe plus a soundtrack that does a lot of the heavy lifting. The problem is it often feels more like a glossy mood board than a movie, with musical numbers that can drag and a story that hits familiar beats without much bite or surprise. If you’re hoping for the scrappy charm or edge people associate with the original, this remake may come off as overly polished and a bit hollow. But if you’re in the mood for bright ’80s vibes, easy romance, and you don’t mind style taking priority over substance, it can still be a painless, upbeat watch.