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In a world where heroes are often in
short supply, the story of Erin Brockovich is an inspirational reminder of the
power of the human spirit. Her passion, tenacity and steadfast desire to fight
for the rights of the underdog defied the odds…her victory made even more
sweet by the fact that while helping others, she in turn helped herself.
Erin Brockovich is a stirring, funny and unconventional drama based on true
events, starring two-time Academy Award* nominee Julia Roberts as the
twice-divorced mother of three young children who sees an injustice, takes on
the bad guy and wins.
With no money, no job and no prospects on the horizon, Erin Brockovich
(Roberts) is a woman in a tight spot. Following a car accident in which Erin is
not at fault, she finds herself even worse off when her attorney fails to land
her any kind of settlement. With nowhere else to turn, Erin pleads with her
attorney Ed Masry (Albert Finney) to hire her at his law firm. It is there,
while working, that Erin stumbles upon some medical records placed in real
estate files. Confused, she begins to question the connection. She convinces Ed
to allow her to investigate, where she discovers a cover-up involving
contaminated water in a local community which is causing devastating illnesses
among its residents.
Although the local citizens are initially leery of becoming involved, Erin's
persistence and the personal interest she takes in their lives makes them
listen. A kindred spirit, Erin is one of them, and her ability to connect with
them on their level makes them comfortable, ultimately earning their trust.
Helping her out is her next door neighbor George (Aaron Eckhart), a Harley
Davidson biker whose friendship and support allows her the time to pursue the
case. Going door to door, she signs up over 600 plaintiffs, and Erin and Ed,
with the help of a major law firm, go on to receive the largest settlement ever
paid in a direct-action lawsuit in U.S. history....$333 million. By triumphing
over insurmountable odds, she is able to prove herself, and reinvent her
life.
Directed by Steven Soderbergh this film crackles with wit and energy. Roberts
in a tasteless collection of mini-skirts and cleavage to the fore, gives her
all in this powerful story of a David and Goliath legal battle against the
potent backdrop of the impoverished American dream.
Roberts is matched by Albert Finney who plays her boss and their on scheme
chemistry is fantastic as the pace of the movie is kept razor sharp and has
plenty of sharper one liners. Stylishly visual and fine acting make this a
career high for Roberts ensuring her place as Hollywood's most bankable female
star. Julia Roberts has proved again and again that when the studios demand big
hearted box office smashes she can deliver. Quality film making.
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2000 Universal
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