Angus, Thongs and Perfect Snogging – WISE Score & Parent Review | Screenwise

Angus, Thongs and Perfect Snogging

Name: Screenwise
Author: Screenwise

movie2008

62%

WISE Score

Avg. Tomatometer

British teen navigates the cringe-worthy chaos of first crushes, friendship drama, and desperately wanting a smaller nose.

73%

→

Angus, Thongs and Perfect Snogging

movie

PG-13, 2008

62%

WISE Score

Avg. Tomatometer

British teen navigates the cringe-worthy chaos of first crushes, friendship drama, and desperately wanting a smaller nose.

73%

Jump to

Also rated on

73%

View →

Where to Watch

Loading streaming options...

Where-to-watch data byJustWatch

Screenwise Verdict

This is a perfectly serviceable teen rom-com that does exactly what it sets out to do: make 14-year-olds feel seen and laugh at the absurdity of adolescence. It's not groundbreaking, and seventeen years later it definitely shows its age (the fashion! the phones! the MySpace references!), but it has heart.

The WISE score reflects that it's wholesome enough for its target demographic, safe within the teen rom-com genre, and offers moderate enrichment through relatable emotional situations. But let's be real: it's not particularly imaginative, and the 2008 vibes mean it won't have the same punch for 2025 teens as it did for millennials who read the books.

If you've got a 13-14 year old who loves teen romance and can appreciate something a bit retro, this is a solid pick. For older teens or kids looking for something more substantive, keep scrolling.

Age Fit

Best for 13-15 year olds who are navigating or about to navigate the social minefield of early high school. Younger tweens will miss the nuance and might find the romantic focus uncomfortable; older teens will likely find it too juvenile and dated.

WISE Breakdown

Wholesome

Based on a beloved UK teen book series, this comedy captures authentic 14-year-old anxieties (crushes, appearance worries, family dynamics) with heart and humor. Models normal friendship dynamics and family relationships, though with typical teen self-absorption and occasional meanness. The tone is light and ultimately affirming—Georgia grows through her mishaps. Not preachy, but shows consequences of actions (like when her schemes backfire). The pacing is energetic without being chaotic.

Imaginative

This is a fairly conventional teen rom-com that follows predictable genre beats—awkward girl wants popular boy, schemes ensue, learns to be herself. The journal-entry framing device adds some personality, and the British humor provides cultural flavor, but there's limited originality here. It doesn't invite creative expression or exploration; it's passive entertainment. The imaginative score reflects that it's competently made but formulaic, offering little that sparks curiosity or builds skills beyond emotional recognition.

Safe

Common Sense Media rates this 14+, which aligns with the target audience. Content includes typical teen party scenes, kissing (the 'snogging' of the title), some mild sexual references and innuendo appropriate to the age group, and teen drinking at a party. No nudity, graphic content, or serious violence. The main safety consideration is that younger viewers might find some content confusing or inappropriate (hence the 14+ rating), but for the target demographic this is age-appropriate romantic comedy fare. No toxic messaging or traumatic surprises—it's exactly what the tin says.

Enriching

Offers moderate enrichment through relatable depiction of teen social anxiety, body image concerns, and the universal desire to fit in. Georgia's journey toward self-acceptance and authenticity provides a positive arc. The film validates teen emotions while gently showing that scheming and trying to be someone you're not backfires. British cultural exposure is a bonus for American viewers. However, it's primarily entertainment—there's limited depth, no significant skill-building, and the insights are fairly surface-level. It's emotionally validating for teens but not particularly thought-provoking.

Parent Info

✓

Why It Might Be Great

Authentically captures the emotional rollercoaster of being 14—the insecurity, the obsession with crushes, the mortifying family moments
Based on Louise Rennison's hugely popular book series, beloved by a generation of readers for its humor and relatability
British humor and slang add cultural flavor; refreshing alternative to American teen movies
Positive ultimate message about being yourself and not trying to manufacture a fake persona to get attention
Solid 73% critic rating and 71% audience score suggest it delivers what it promises

⚠

What to Watch For

Party scenes with teen drinking and kissing—nothing graphic, but definitely aimed at the 13-14+ crowd
Some body-image anxiety and appearance obsession (Georgia fixates on her nose, weight, etc.) that might need context for younger or sensitive viewers
The 2008 aesthetic and references (flip phones, early social media) might feel ancient to Gen Alpha kids
Mild sexual innuendo and snogging-focused plot means this isn't for younger tweens

Conversation Starters

"Have you ever felt like Georgia—like you had to change yourself to get someone to like you? How'd that work out?"
"What do you think about how Georgia's friends handled the drama? Would your friend group be different?"
"Georgia spends so much time worrying about her appearance. Do you think social media makes that better or worse for your generation?"
"The movie's from 2008—what feels super dated about it? What actually still feels real?"

Ask Anything

Get a personalized guide on any topic