Teen comedies have had a long history of taking inspiration from classic works of literature. Consider Amy Heckerling’s 1995 film Clueless, based off of Jane Austen’s 1815 novel Emma, about a spoiled matchmaker who finds her perfect life ruined. And what about Gil Junger’s 1999 hit 10 Things I Hate About You, loosely based off of Shakespeare’s 1623 hit The Taming of the Shrew? The pattern would seem to suggest that the problems of growing up really haven’t changed all that much in only a few centuries. The latest film to put in its bid in the “classically-inspired teen comedy” genre is Easy A, a clever take-off of Nathaniel Hawthorne’s 1850 novel The Scarlet Letter.The main difference between the works, however, is that in Easy A, main character Olive Penderghast (played by Emma Stone and an analogue to Hester Prynne) hasn’t actually had sex with anybody. Instead, she lies about it to her best friend Rhiannon to avoid embarrassment after going on a “nonexistent” date. Somehow, this foolproof plan backfires as the rumor spreads around the school, bringing her under fire from some sections of the student population and making her highly-sought after by others. In fact, she turns her new reputation into an industry by accepting bribes to say she’s “been with” them as well.As you can tell, the film deals with some pretty heavy subject matter that some parents may be uncomfortable with. Those expecting an outright condemnation of teen sexuality will be left wanting. However, the film does illustrate the stress and consequences that come along with teenage relationships, as well as the dangers of gossip and judgment. Plus, it’s important to remember that the film is largely geared at teens, and is directed by Will Gluckthe same person who directed 2009′s Fired Up!, a comedy about two high school football players who con their way into cheerleading camp. Compared to that film, Easy A offers much more entertainment for a more varied audience.The cast in the film is also something to get excited about. Star Emma Stone is truly becoming a sought-after actress, after putting in entertaining performances in Zombieland (2009) and The House Bunny (2008), among others. Alyson Michalka, actress and one half of the group 78violet (formerly Aly & AJ), is excellent as Olive’s friend Rhiannon, and Penn Badgley (John Tucker Must Die, TV’s Gossip Girl) makes a great romantic interest.Easy A won’t let you skip out on reading the original when it’s assigned in class, but it is an entertaining take-off and an example of the best teen comedies can aspire to. Check it out at a theater near you, or wait for it to come out on DVD.