“Legally Blonde,” the iconic film following Elle Woods’ journey into Harvard Law School, provides a mix of accurate and exaggerated portrayals of law school competitiveness. This exaggeration is the foundation of the film’s comedic genius and box office success, and Reese Witherspoon plays the part to perfection.
The Struggle is Real
Elle’s initial struggles in adapting to the rigorous academic environment accurately reflect the challenges law students face. The film captures the intensity of the workload, demanding readings, and the pressure to perform, mirroring the real-world competitiveness of legal education.
The exaggeration of these real-world challenges, however, contributes to the film’s humor.
Classroom Dynamics and the Socratic Method
“Legally Blonde” effectively portrays the competitive atmosphere within law school classrooms. The use of the Socratic method, with professors challenging students on legal cases, mirrors the pressure students feel to be well-prepared and articulate in class. Elle’s encounters with Professor Callahan’s questions resonate with the competitive vibe of legal education.
After winning an argument in class, her professor suggested she apply for his internship and asked for her resume.
“It’s pink,” he says when Elle hands it to him.
“Oh, and it’s scented. I think it gives it a little something extra. Don’t you think?”
Elle’s innocence once again becomes evident, showcasing the stark contrast between her reality and the academic realm of law school.
Unaware that a pink, scented resume deviates significantly from the expectations of a law professor, she walks away with a smile and a casual, “See you in next class.”
As she leaves, the professor sniffs the resume. It becomes apparent that Elle’s unconventional approach challenges the law school’s conventional and formal atmosphere.
This scene effectively emphasizes the triviality of the established norms in law school. Ultimately, Elle secures the internship, triumphing over the preconceived notions of what is deemed acceptable in the legal education environment.
Camaraderie and Rivalry in Study Groups
The film accurately depicts the collaborative yet competitive nature of study groups in law school. Students collaborate to understand complex legal concepts while competing for grades and future opportunities.
But Legally Blonde pushes the reality envelope for comedic effect.
Elle’s interactions with her peers showcase the blend of camaraderie and rivalry that characterizes these law school relationships.
“Look, I brought sustenance,” she says as she approaches her classmates in a library study group. She’s naïve enough to think that bringing snacks to the competitive world of law school opens the door to acceptance.
“Our group is full,” responds one of the female students.
“Is this like an RSVP thing?” Elle asks.
“No, it’s like a smart people thing,” responds another female student.
“We can make room for one more,” says one of the male students.
But the mean girl’s cold shoulder that every girl who has ever tried to fit in with a group that doesn’t want her prevails, and Elle walks away.
Reality is slightly more subtle, but the scene gets the point across loud and clear: Law school is competitive and often cruel.
Reality vs. Cinematic Effect
The film takes liberties with reality, especially in its exaggerated depiction of certain aspects of law school competitiveness. Elle’s transition from a fashion-focused undergraduate to a successful law student is accelerated for cinematic purposes.
In reality, the transition to law school requires more than just a change in wardrobe; it demands a significant intellectual and academic adjustment. The film simplifies this process for entertainment value, giving viewers a skewed perception of the actual challenges law students face, but one that audiences understand. After all, suspending reality for 90 minutes is what movies are meant to do.
Legally Blonde doesn’t disappoint.
The film uses exaggeration to capture the initial shock, the classroom dynamics, and the collaborative nature of legal education. Through these comedic exaggerations, the film sheds light on the determination and resilience required to succeed in the competitive field of law.