American Pie, released in theaters on July 9, 1999, exploded onto the scene as a defining teen comedy of its era, perfectly capturing the anxieties, awkwardness, and desperate desires of high school seniors on the cusp of graduation. The film is a raucous, often outrageous, but ultimately sweet and relatable look at the journey from adolescence to adulthood.
The story follows a group of high school friends – Jim, Kevin, Oz, and Finch – who make a pact to lose their virginity before prom night. What ensues is a series of hilariously misguided attempts, embarrassing mishaps, and genuine moments of self-discovery, all set against the backdrop of their final weeks of high school.
Jason Biggs anchors the film as Jim Levenstein, the perpetually awkward and often mortified protagonist. Biggs’s commitment to Jim’s escalating predicaments, from the infamous pie incident to his struggles with Nadia, makes him an incredibly endearing and sympathetic lead.
Chris Klein plays Chris “Oz” Ostreicher, the jock who tries to reinvent himself for a girl, while Thomas Ian Nicholas is Kevin Myers, the “normal” one who instigates the pact.
Eddie Kaye Thomas shines as Paul Finch, the seemingly sophisticated and mysterious member of the group, and Seann William Scott delivers a breakout, unforgettable performance as Steve Stifler, the loud, obnoxious, and utterly hilarious party animal whose antics provide much of the film’s most outrageous humor.
The female cast is equally strong led by Shannon Elizabeth in a memorable turn as Nadia, Jim’s crush from the Czech Republic.

Shannon Elizabeth as Nadia in American Pie (Photo/Universal Pictures)
Mena Suvari plays Heather, Oz’s sweet and understanding love interest.
Tara Reid stands out as Vicky Lathum, Kevin’s girlfriend.
Alyson Hannigan is iconic as Michelle Flaherty, the quirky band geek with a surprising secret, whose “this one time, at band camp…” line became instantly legendary.
Natasha Lyonne adds a cynical and wise perspective as Jessica, the more experienced friend.
Of course, the adult figures provide invaluable comedic support. Eugene Levy is brilliantly understated and endlessly awkward as Jim’s well-meaning but clueless Dad, Mr. Levenstein. His attempts to connect with Jim are a consistent source of cringe-worthy humor.
Jennifer Coolidge is a scene-stealer as Stifler’s Mom, the alluring “MILF” who becomes the object of Finch’s affection.
Casey Affleck appears as Kevin’s brother.
Filmed under the title of Great Falls, American Pie originally received an ‘NC-17’ rating from the Motion Picture Association of America and edits were made to secure the more commercial ‘R’ rating.
The film’s success also spawned a franchise, including three theatrical sequels American Pie 2, American Wedding, and American Reunion. There were also five direct-to-video films in the American Pie Presents series: Band Camp, The Naked Mile, Beta House, The Book of Love, and Girls’ Rules.
Reception for American Pie
American Pie grossed $18.7 million on its opening weekend, finishing No. 1 at the box office, topping Wild, Wild West ($16.8 million) starring Will Smith and Big Daddy ($16 million) starring Adam Sandler.
The film would gross $235.5 million (on an $11 million budget) worldwide.
Roger Ebert gave the film three out of four stars in his review.
Lasting Legacy
American Pie is more than just a gross-out comedy; it’s a nostalgic and heartfelt exploration of friendship, first loves, and the universal experience of growing up. It’s a film that perfectly blends its outrageous humor with genuine emotional beats, making it a timeless classic in the teen comedy genre.
