Anjanica Singh

While *Legally Blonde* is often praised as an empowering film for women, it sends troubling and conflicting messages when it comes to addressing sexual harassment. In a key scene, Professor Callahan makes an inappropriate advance on Elle Woods by touching her thigh, and yet there are no consequences for his actions. This lack of accountability sends a damaging message, implying that powerful men can get away with such behavior without facing repercussions. Even more disappointing, Elle, a strong and confident character, doesn’t stand up for herself in the moment, and the film fails to show any institutional or personal action taken against Callahan. Instead, the movie focuses on Elle’s personal growth and success, while completely ignoring the need to address harassment directly. In today’s world, where standing up against misconduct is more important than ever, this movie’s handling of the situation feels tone-deaf and sends the wrong message to young women. *Legally Blonde* had the opportunity to be both empowering and responsible but ultimately turned out to be shit