Of Boobs and Barbs

Rating: 7/10 (17 November 2000)

"What makes you think you can just walk in there [public utility records office] and find anything we need?" inquires attorney Ed Masry. Replies Erin Brockovich: "They're called boobs, Ed."
So it goes in this dramatic enactment of an allegedly true-life-based story. Just where facts leave off, however, and creative writing begins, may be another matter.
Is it possible that an entire community near a large utility company can be duped by that company into believing that the widespread health challenges being faced by that community are in no way related to the company's toxic waste? Even when that company is paying the medical expenses of certain community residents?
Is there something we don't know about civic awareness in this informed era that such a situation could exist with nary a citizen even remotely beginning to suspect there's something amiss?
No matter: in steps Eric Brockovitch armed, not only with persuasive physical endowments and sharp tongue, but also a quick mind and wit, to help bring this shocking situation to light and down this insidious company. Since Julia Roberts portrays Erin, the role is written to utilize Robert's uniquely hip, no-nonsense persona. She makes a striking presence and commands attention and empathy with her skillful portrayal.
After spending half the film recovering from the astonishment of the paunchy, aged appearance of once-handsome Albert Finney, we found his attorney Ed Masry to be an effective partner of research assistant Erin. Aaron Eckhart--as romantic interest, blue collar hippie, George--is almost unrecognizable from his starched white-collar, "Chad," of "In the Company of Men" (which skyrocketed this enormously versatile actor to fame).
The DVD-formatted version offers mini-interviews with both the film's director and Erin Brockovitch herself, lending credibility to the story's legal assertions. However, it's clear this film is not a documentary, and only through committed personal research can one uncover the true facts regarding this fascinating and significant class-action litigation of a multi-billion dollar utility company.
It's a story which affects us all.