Legally Blonde

Legally Blonde is a 2001 American comedy film directed by Robert Luketic, written by Karen McCullah Lutz and Kirsten Smith, and produced by Marc Platt. The film stars Reese Witherspoon as Elle Woods, a sorority girl who attempts to win back her ex-boyfriend Warner Huntington III (Matthew Davis) by getting a law degree. Luke Wilson, Selma Blair, Viveka Davis, and Ali Larter also star.

Elle Woods is a sorority girl who seems to have it all: wealth, looks, and a boyfriend who is the heir to a large company. When Elle's boyfriend Warner Huntington III dumps her for someone more "serious," Elle puts down the credit card, picks up some books, and heads for Harvard Law School! Along the way, Elle learns that she can use her intelligence, charm, and determination to get what she wants - and that sometimes, what you want isn't necessarily what you need.

With its smart, satirical take on the overachieving world of Legal Eagles and Ivy League wannabes, Legally Blonde brings a refreshingly new dimension to the chick flick genre. Witherspoon is delightful as the ditzy fashion doll who proves that being true to yourself never goes out of style.

The film was released on July 13, 2001 to commercial success, grossing over $141 million worldwide. It received generally positive reviews from critics; some praised the light-hearted nature and humorous script while others criticized the predictable plot. The film spawned a franchise, which includes two direct-to-DVD sequels, Legally Blondes (2009), and Red, White & Blonde (2003). A Broadway musical version of the film premiered in 2007.

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 71%

Year of Release: 2001