Does ‘Legally Blonde’ Adequately Portray Law School?
‘What? Like It’s Hard?’
If you’ve watched the 2001 American comedy, “Legally Blonde,” then you probably remember the iconic conversation that takes place between the protagonist, Elle Woods, and her ex-boyfriend, Warner. In disbelief, he asks, “You got into Harvard Law?” Elle responds, “What? Like it’s hard?” This exchange brought laughs from those in the law community and outsiders alike because everyone knows that getting into any law school is an arduous and time-consuming process. Just in case you aren’t familiar with this conversation or the film’s overarching narrative, here is a little backstory. Shortly after being dumped by her college boyfriend, Elle decides to apply to Harvard Law School to demonstrate her worth as a serious partner. After much preparation, Elle is accepted due to her high LSAT score and her original, albeit hilarious, admissions essay. Elle has quite the experience during her first year of law school, which is filled with ups, downs, new friendships, and self-reflection. In the end, she is able to serve as head lawyer for a high-profile client’s murder case, which she decidedly wins. Whether watching the film for first or 20th time, many viewers wonder if the law school experience conveyed in the film provides an adequate portrayal of life for real law students. The answer is ... kind of. The
depiction of the application process contains some truths. For example, Elle’s determination and intense study habits definitely portray both the difficulty and significance of earning a high score on the LSAT. On the other hand, her admissions video was a little less realistic; donning a swimsuit in a pool while referencing details of popular soap operas might not be as helpful as portrayed. That said, Elle’s experience while in law school isn’t far from reality. Taking enough notes to require a laptop, navigating a wide range of professor preferences, and skipping parties to study are all necessary components of the law school struggle. However, Elle’s fictional time in the courtroom is just that: fiction. The examination and cross-examinations are quite disorganized and the media presence is overly dramatic — but to be fair, the scenes are meant to provide entertainment value over accuracy. While the film might not be completely consistent in its overall representation, there are some realistic portrayals of the triumphs, tribulations, and mishaps that could occur throughout the law- school experience. And if nothing else, the film helps remind viewers that lawyers can have a great sense of humor and a great sense of style.
Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower
Cauliflower doesn’t have to be boring! With a little Parmesan cheese and some seasoning, it can pack a punch of flavor that will please even your most vegetable-averse family members.
INGREDIENTS
• 1 head cauliflower • 1 medium yellow onion, sliced • 4 sprigs thyme • 4 garlic cloves, unpeeled
• 3 tablespoons olive oil • 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese, ideally Parmigiano-Reggiano • Salt and pepper, to taste
DIRECTIONS 1. Heat oven to 425 F. 2. Cut cauliflower into florets. On a large baking sheet, toss cauliflower with onions, thyme, garlic, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Roast for 35–40 minutes, tossing occasionally. 4. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and finish roasting, about 10 minutes longer. 5. Serve while hot.
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