Badass Brockovich

Rating: 8/10 (1 June 2016)

Erin Brockovich, played by Actress Julia Roberts, is an unemployed single mother of three who finds herself with her hands even fuller when she gets T-boned at an intersection on her way home from yet another unsuccessful job interview in North Hollywood. Although her lawyer, Ed Masry, is confident that she will win the case against the careless driver, their optimism turns to disappointment when the jury decides that this foul-mouthed divorcÃ©e was just trying to make a quick buck. This seemingly inconvenient event will ultimately propel her into the launch of her career, despite never having any formal education, or a job for that matter.
Despite Erin's abrasive wit and eclectic wardrobe, she eventually lands a job with her former lawyer who introduces her to the world of fax machines and file cabinets. All the while, after having a run of bad luck with a couple of babysitters, her three young children are now being taken care of by George; the hunky bearded biker from next door. These relationships continue to unfold throughout the film. Erin's intuition and curiosity leads her to begin unravelling what was at first a dispute between a small family in Hinkley and the monstrous monopoly that is PG&E. After much investigation, Erin attempts to expose what could be one of the largest crimes of health and environmental negligence committed by a company to date. In the midst of chaos, she tries to find a balance between being a mother, a lover, and an appropriate employee all while attempting to find justice in a sea of corrupt companies and tedious judicial systems. Her astounding work ethic and ability to think on her feet is ultimately her only ammo in the unthinkable battle that precedes her.
Set in Southern California, the Rom Com Drama based on a true story alternates between glitzy Los Angeles and the dull, barren desert of Hinkley. Julia Robert's ability to portray Erin as a beautiful, bad ass, and yet somehow still relatable character is the driving force of the film. Her and Ed, who is played by Albert Finney, create an unlikely yet incredible duo who will have you cheering from the sidelines. Erin's selflessness, sass, and zeal creates a character that anyone would root for, and the exposure of PG&E's negligence creates a very qualified antagonist. Her love interest, George adds another element to the plot, showing Erin's sweet and feminine side. The ups and downs of Erin's personal life parallel those of the Hinkley case, creating an even more enticing story line.
Overall, Erin and the people of Hinkley's battle against the giant corporation PG&E, resembles the classic David and Goliath plot line. This real life story of one company's carelessness that lead to the suffering of an entire town, is one that will make you laugh, cry, and even get a little angry. Erin plays the hero that we all strive to be, and so much more. The great acting, character development, and riveting plot line followed by a great overall theme and message is why I chose to give the film a high rating. However, this isn't necessarily a movie I could watch over and over again, as it doesn't leave much speculation or mystery. Nonetheless, it is a great movie that is most definitely worth watching.