With six million Teen movies on the market (including a brand spanking new spoof ‘Not another Teen movie’ just about to be released) I find myself dreading the prospect of going to the movies.
However, I was recently in a hotel on holiday, it was late in the afternoon, the kids were tired and the wife was asleep. I therefore decided to rent a movie. Now there’s not often much choice for children in Hotel’s so we eventually ended up renting Legally Blonde.
<The movie>
Elle Woods is perhaps very stereotypical; with her blonde good lucks, her somewhat dizzy personality, her perfect parents and perfect boyfriend, it is no surprise when she becomes homecoming queen.
Expecting her boyfriend is intent on proposing to her at dinner, her friends and sorority ensure that she is ‘beautified’, ready for the defining moment in her life. Her boyfriend, Warner. a somewhat pompous young man, whose s&&t obviously doesn’t stink, has a surprise in store.
Rather than proposing, Warner has decided to break off their
relationship, pointing out the fact that it would not be right for someone of his status to marry a blonde bimbo –she simply has too much fun and it wouldn’t be appropriate for him to date her while he attends Harvard.
Elle is initially heartbroken, all her dreams in shatters – her friends try to bring her out of a depression in stereotypical fashion – they take her for a manicure and pedicure – while at the parlor, and after seeing am article about Warner’s brother marrying into a very rich family (i.e. the Vanderbelts) she decides that the only way that she will win Warner back is by attending Harvard herself.
To make this a reality she has to study hard to get very good marks in some important test – additionally she has to send a promotional video to Harvard – this generally involves Elle explaining why she would be perfect in Harvard while swimming in a pool in a sexy bikini.
Somehow it works and she manages to gain a place in the prestigious school of Harvard.
Initially, Elle is seen as a joke around Harvard – her blonde hair and her obvious lack of knowledge about the subjects going against her. However, Elles begins to throw the manacles of stereotype away as she begins to work hard and actually excel at school.
Her ex-boyfriend, now seeing a bitchy rich girl, is initially embarrassed by her presence at the school, but begins to warm to her as she begins to do well in class. Finally, due to her diligent work and skills she is chosen to help a professor in a notable murder case.
Without going into too much detail, the story continues as Elle uses her unique talents, including her knowledge of make-up, to help solve the case while gaining the respect of her peers.
<The Acting>
Reese Witherspoon, plays Elle Woods – her looks are perfect for this role. She performs very well as she transforms the blonde bimbo into a serious lawyer.
Luke Wilson plays Emmet, he helps Elle Woods at times and plays a key role in the murder trial. Luke plays this character well adding sincerity and caring to the movie.
Matthew Davies plays Warner – he portrays the character as an unfeeling man more interested in success and looking good.
I will not make any comment on any other acting, as generally it is not of the highest quality – the movie really focuses on Elle Woods and while there are a few good supporting actors there is no-one who stands out.
<My Opinion>
The movie is fun, although perhaps plays on the typical stereotypes a little too much – i.e. Dumb Blonde turns into legal expert – unwanted ex-wife turns table on ex-husband, professor after only one thing from his beautiful student.
At times it is very predictable, removing much of the potential enjoyment. It is similar to Clueless, with a similar look and feel. The story is simple and easy to follow, making it suitable for teenagers.
The movie will make you laugh occasionally, but aside from that doesn’t really stir the emotions.
I would say that the movie is aimed at teenage girls or young ladies, given the focus on ‘girlie’ things such as clothing etc. You won’t find to many men or teenage boys liking the movie for the subject, however some will watch it purely to see Elle.
How helpful would this review be to a person making a buying decision? Rating guidelines
Comedy - Director: Tony Dow - Original Language: English - Classification: 12 years and over - Starring: John Challis, David Jason, Nicholas Lyndhurst, Tessa Peake-Jones, Gwyneth Strong
Comedy - Original Language: English - Classification: 12 years and over - Starring: Tessa Peake-Jones, Buster Merryfield, David Jason, Nicholas Lyndhurst
Haven't seen this film yet, suppose I would enjoy a good girlie film.
biccy99 29.11.2001 19:40
Great opinion. I have been debating whether or not to see this given the weaknesses you mention. I'll probably watch it when, like you, I have nothing better to do!
An extraordinary comic performance from Reese Witherspoon makesLegally Blondea winner. ... more
Witherspoons Elle is a ditzy blonde forced by circumstances to metamorphose into a strong-minded and academic lawyer, without losing her strong sense of self in the ...
Postage & Packaging: £1.21 Availability: Usually dispatched within 1-2 business days...
An extraordinary comic performance from Reese Witherspoon makesLegally Blondea winner. ... more
Witherspoons Elle is a ditzy blonde forced by circumstances to metamorphose into a strong-minded and academic lawyer, without losing her strong sense of self in the ...
Postage & Packaging: Free! Availability: Usually dispatched within 24 hours...
She's a Beverly Hills beauty who'll do anything to keep her man. Even if it means going ... more
all the way... to law school! Reese Witherspoon (Election) stars with Luke Wilson (Charlie's Angels), Selma Blair (Cruel Intentions), Matthew Davis (Pearl Harbour) ...
Reese Witherspoon gives a glittering performance as Elle Woods the natural blonde ... more
sorority queen who enrolls at Harvard Law School. Expecting her boyfriend Warner Huntington III (Matthew Davis) to propose Elle is mortified when instead he says he nee...
Postage & Packaging: £0.00 Availability: 3-5 working days
Advantages: It's an excellent flick for chicks and it has the gorgeus Luke Wilson in it Disadvantages: It's very pink and doesn't have enough Luke Wilson in it
Willow_Wiccan 07.07.2002 ·
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Ciao members have rated this review on average: very helpful
Review of Legally Blonde (DVD)
Advantages: It's an excellent flick for chicks and it has the gorgeus Luke Wilson in it Disadvantages: It's very pink and doesn't have enough Luke Wilson in it
Willow_Wiccan 07.07.2002 ·
Read review
Ciao members have rated this review on average: very helpful
Review of Legally Blonde (DVD)
![Legally Blonde [DVD] [2001]](http://picnica.ciao.com/uk/78531096.jpg "Legally Blonde [DVD] [2001]")
Nov 29th, 2001
very helpful by (100%):
