Josie and the Pussycats is a 2001 musical comedy film based on the Archies comic book series of the same name. The film follows three small-town girls named Josie, Melody, and Val who become the newest pop sensations after a mysterious record executive offers them a record deal. Their catchy pop songs and sassy performances quickly make them the most popular band in America.
However, Josie, Melody, and Val soon discover that their success is part of a sinister plan orchestrated by the record executive and his corporate partner to brainwash and control the youth of America with subliminal messages in their music. As the trio try to reveal the truth behind their fame, they find themselves facing dangerous obstacles and must protect themselves from the two corporate villains who are determined to silence them.
The film was directed by Harry Elfont and Deborah Kaplan and starred Rachael Leigh Cook as Josie, Rosario Dawson as Valerie, and Tara Reid as Melody. It also featured a number of celebrity cameos, including Carson Daly, Missi Pyle, and Donald Faison.
Josie and the Pussycats received generally positive reviews for its satirical take on the music industry and consumerism. The film's soundtrack, featuring original songs by the cast and popular artists like Kay Hanley and Letters to Cleo, also received critical acclaim and spawned a hit single, "Pretend to Be Nice." Despite the positive response, the film was a box office disappointment, but has since gained a cult following.