Feminism in Film: "Erin Brockovich"

Paper Summary:

This paper reviews the film "Erin Brockovich", focusing on the feminist implications of the main character, portrayed by Julia Roberts. The author suggests that this movie is an about-face for the film industry, which typically has portrayed women as either compliant housewives or aggressive sexualized women. The paper studies how Erin surpasses these limited roles, going on to prove herself to her boss and coworkers despite stereotypical assumptions; find a non-traditional method for child-care; stand up to male persuasion; succeed in helping her community; and use her sex appeal in a positive manner.

From the Paper:

"Although Erin has a successful job, she does not stay home all day with the children. Instead, Erin uses her charming appearance and hard-to-get attitude to capture the affection of her neighbor. Erin reverses the accepted roles of man versus woman. Her new boyfriend becomes the caretaker, staying at home with the children and cooking dinner, while Erin goes out to make a living, supporting her family. In doing this, her children and boyfriend lose their patience with her continually making sacrifices for her job. Soon after, her son picks up a report about one of her sick clients; "she is the same age as me" he acknowledges."

More papers on Feminism in Film: "Erin Brockovich":

• Film Review # 106200 : "Erin Brockovich"
• Comparison Essay # 125200 : "The Yellow Wallpaper" and "Erin Brockovich"
• Film Review # 41824 : "Erin Brockovich" and Marxism"

APA Citation:

MLA Citation: