Legally Blonde
Executive Summary
Poster
![](/posters/posterf669dd4f81d2b9bb23f29c64bd96b68d24b68bca00975d90ad73256bbe397ab6.png)
Overview
Genres: Comedy, Drama, Romance, Legal Drama
Setting: Present day, Harvard Law School and surrounding areas in Boston, MA
Overview: Array
Themes: Personal Growth, Love and Relationships, Female Empowerment
Conflict and Stakes: Elle's struggle to prove herself in a male-dominated field and win back her ex-boyfriend, Warner, while also dealing with her own insecurities and the expectations of those around her.
Overall Mood: Uplifting and empowering, with moments of humor and drama.
Mood/Tone at Key Scenes:
- Scene 1: Joyful and lighthearted, with a sense of excitement and anticipation.
Standout Features:
- Unique Hook: A romantic comedy set in the world of law school, featuring a strong female lead who challenges stereotypes and expectations.
- Plot Twist: Elle's decision to attend law school to win back her ex-boyfriend, only to discover her own potential and passion for the law.
- Distinctive Setting: The world of Harvard Law School, which provides a unique backdrop for a romantic comedy.
Comparable Scripts:
- Legally Blonde
- The Devil Wears Prada
- Juno
- Election
- Clueless
- A Beautiful Mind
- The Social Network
- Dead Poets Society
- Good Will Hunting
- Monster's Ball
Writing Style:
The writing style across the screenplay is characterized by sharp dialogue, witty humor, and a strong focus on character-driven narratives. There is a blend of both comedy and drama, often used to explore complex themes and relationships.
Style Similarities:
- Aaron Sorkin
- Nora Ephron
- Tina Fey
Pass/Consider/Recommend
Recommend
Explanation: The screenplay for 'Legally Blonde' is a well-written and engaging piece with a strong central character, compelling narrative, and effective use of humor. While there are a few areas where improvements could be made, such as providing more depth to certain character motivations and smoothing out transitions between scenes, the screenplay overall delivers on its promise of a fun, heartwarming, and empowering story. Elle Woods' journey of self-discovery and growth is expertly crafted, and the screenplay provides ample opportunities for memorable and impactful scenes that showcase her determination, wit, and resilience.
USP: Discover a fresh and witty take on the romantic comedy genre with "Legally Blonde," a script that showcases the journey of Elle Woods, a sorority queen who transforms into a successful and empowered lawyer. This story offers a unique blend of humor, heartbreak, and determination, challenging societal norms and exploring themes of love, self-worth, and personal growth. With its authentic characters, sharp dialogue, and unexpected twists, "Legally Blonde" delivers a delightful and engaging narrative that will leave audiences cheering for Elle's success. This script stands out with its distinct voice, combining satire and wit to create a captivating and unforgettable experience.
Market Analysis
Budget Estimate:$30-40 million
Target Audience Demographics: Women aged 18-35, fans of romantic comedies and legal dramas.
Marketability: The film has a strong lead character, a unique premise, and a proven track record with the original Legally Blonde, making it appealing to a wide audience.
The film explores themes of female empowerment and self-discovery, which could attract a diverse audience, but the genre-blend of romantic comedy and legal drama may limit its appeal to some.
The film features a strong female lead, a unique premise, and a proven track record with the original Legally Blonde, making it appealing to a wide audience.
Profit Potential: Moderate to high, due to its potential to attract a wide audience and generate positive word-of-mouth.
Analysis Criteria Percentiles
Writer's Voice
Summary:The writer's voice is witty, satirical, and uses humor to address serious themes. The dialogue is sharp and the scenes transition smoothly between comedic and dramatic moments.
Best representation: Scene 17 - Elle's Costume and Warner's Doubts. This scene is the best representation of the writer's voice because it effectively blends humor, drama, and social commentary in a compelling and engaging way.
Memorable Lines:
- Elle: Exercise gives you endorphins, endorphins make you happy — happy people don't kill their husbands! (Scene 25)
- Sapphire: What, like it's that hard? (Scene 10)
- ELLE: You're an attractive man, but you need to take better care of yourself. (Scene 31)
- Elle: Forget it. I've already spent too many hours crying over you. (Scene 32)
- Professor Stromwell: The law leaves much room for interpretation — but very little for self-doubt. (Scene 12)
Characters
Elle Woods:A fashion merchandising major and president of Delta Gamma sorority at USC who decides to attend Harvard Law School to win back her ex-boyfriend, Warner.
Warner Huntington III:Elle's ex-boyfriend and a law student at Harvard, who initially doesn't take Elle seriously but later realizes her potential.
Emmett Richmond:A 28-year-old law student at Harvard who becomes Elle's mentor and friend, and later her love interest.
Paulette Bonafonté:A manicurist at Beauty Oasis who becomes Elle's confidante and friend, seeking her help in winning back her ex-husband.
Story Shape
Screenplay Story Analysis
Note: This is the overall critique. For scene by scene critique click here
Story Content | Character Development | Scene Elements | Audience Engagement | Technical Aspects | |||||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Click for Full Analysis | Tone | Overall Grade | Concept | Plot | Originality Score | Characters | Character Changes | Internal Goal | External Goal | Conflict | Opposition | High stakes | Story forward | Twist | Emotional Impact | Dialogue | Engagement | Pacing | Formatting | Structure | |
1 - Elle Woods' Card Signing and Dog Delivery in the Delta Gamma Sorority House | Light-hearted, Playful, Excited | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 5 | 8 | 7 | 4 | 6 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 | |
2 - Elle's Proposal Preparations: A Dress Fitting Adventure | Light-hearted, Excited, Sassy | 9 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
3 - The Breakup at The Ivy | Romantic, Heartbreaking, Serious, Embarrassing | 10 | 9 | 10 | 9 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 10 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 8 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | |
4 - A Night of Heartbreak and Support | Heartbreak, Humor, Shock | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
5 - Elle's Melancholy: Navigating a Breakup and Uncertain Future | Heartbreak, Humor, Sadness | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | |
6 - Elle's Surprising Ambition: A Step Closer to Winning Warner Back | Humorous, Dramatic, Sarcastic | 8 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 7 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
7 - Elle Woods' Multi-tasking and Frustration: Balancing Sorority Life and LSAT Preparation | Humorous, Heartbreaking, Dramatic | 8 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
8 - Elle's LSAT Study Session and Dylan McDermott Encounter | Humorous, Heartfelt, Dramatic | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | |
9 - Elle's LSAT Triumph and Unconventional Acceptance into Harvard Law | Humorous, Heartfelt, Dramatic | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
10 - Elle's Arrival at Harvard: Doubts and Determination | Humorous, Dramatic, Sarcastic | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | |
11 - Elle's Law School Beginning and Warner Reunion | Humorous, Light-hearted, Sarcastic | 9 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
12 - Elle's Unpreparedness Leads to Embarrassment in Civil Procedures Class | Humorous, Serious, Embarrassing | 8 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
13 - Elle's First Day of Classes: Revelations and Heartbreak | Humorous, Heartbreaking, Surprising | 9 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
14 - Heartbreak and Hope at Beauty Oasis | Humorous, Heartfelt, Reflective | 9 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
15 - Elle's Challenge: Reconnecting with Warner and Rising above Sarah | Humorous, Sarcastic, Dramatic | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | |
16 - Elle's Failed Attempt to Join Warner's Study Group | Humorous, Heartbreaking, Defiant | 8 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
17 - Elle's Night of Exclusion and Rejection | Humorous, Heartfelt, Defeated | 8 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 7 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
18 - Elle's Costume and Warner's Doubts | Sarcastic, Flirty, Heartbroken, Defiant | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
19 - Elle's Determination: Overcoming Doubts and Proving Worth | Humorous, Sarcastic, Defiant | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
20 - Elle's Playful Prank on Arrogant Aaron | Humorous, Determined, Sarcastic | 8 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 7 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 8 | |
21 - Elle's Legal Victory: Challenging Sperm Donor Rights | Humorous, Dramatic, Sarcastic | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 7 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
22 - Elle's Empowerment: Impressing Professors and Encouraging Friends | Humorous, Determined, Sarcastic | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 9 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
23 - Elle Woods Secures Rufus's Return for Paulette | Humorous, Dramatic, Confrontational | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | |
24 - Elle's Surprising Internship Offer | Humorous, Dramatic, Sarcastic | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | |
25 - Elle's New Beginning: A Case of Innocence | Humorous, Dramatic, Sarcastic | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | |
26 - Tense Jail Interview and Unexpected Connection | Serious, Humorous, Sarcastic | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
27 - Elle Teaches the 'Bend & Snap' | Light-hearted, Humorous, Upbeat | 9 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 4 | 5 | 3 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
28 - Differing Accounts and a Jailhouse Visit | Humorous, Dramatic, Sarcastic | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
29 - Donovan's Frustration: The Unrevealed Alibi | Serious, Humorous, Dramatic | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | |
30 - Pilates, Mud Treatments, and a Surprising Revelation | Light-hearted, Sarcastic, Conversational | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 5 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
31 - Elle's Blonde Legal Defense Fund | Humorous, Sarcastic, Light-hearted | 9 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 6 | 8 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 4 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 7 | |
32 - Elle Helps Dorky David Win Over a Freshman Girl | Humorous, Sarcastic, Emotional | 9 | 8 | 9 | 7 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | |
33 - Revelation of an Affair in the Courtroom | Serious, Humorous, Dramatic | 9 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 9 | |
34 - Brooke's Alibi and a Night In | Light-hearted, Sarcastic, Supportive | 9 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | |
35 - Paulette's Failed Attempt at Impressing the UPS Guy | Humorous, Dramatic, Sarcastic | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | |
36 - Elle Exposes Enrique's Affair and Sexuality in Court | Humorous, Dramatic, Sarcastic | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | |
37 - Elle's Success Turns Sour: Donovan's Unwanted Advance | Excitement, Gratitude, Professionalism, Intrigue, Disgust | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
38 - Elle's Decision to Quit | Upset, Defiant, Resigned, Disillusioned, Empowered | 9 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
39 - Elle's Confidence Restored: From Quitting Law School to Representing Brooke in Court | Humorous, Dramatic, Sarcastic | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
40 - Chutney's Perm Leads to Confession | Dramatic, Humorous, Suspenseful | 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
41 - Elle's Courtroom Victory and New Beginnings | Humorous, Dramatic, Sarcastic | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 9 | 7 | 7 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | |
42 - Blonde Legal Defense Club's Popular Orientation Debut | Light-hearted, Humorous, Dramatic | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 7 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 |
Scene 1 - Elle Woods' Card Signing and Dog Delivery in the Delta Gamma Sorority House
"HEAD OVER HEELS" by the Go-Go's plays as we wind through a
flock of abstract, silky, golden strands — PULLING BACK, to *
discover that the strands are hair on a BLONDE GIRL's head. *
But not just any blonde girl, a girl in Delta Gamma, the
blondest, most beautiful sorority at USC.
We PULL BACK further to see that she's signing a handmade
card. She holds it up ~ OVER HER SHOULDER, we see hearts *
and glitter surrounding and "Good Luck Tonight!" and "Elle *
and Warner forever!."
She carries the card out of her room and we FOLLOW HER across
the hall, into the room of —
THREE BLONDE CHEERLEADERS, who stop practicing their pom-pom
routine to sign the card. As they finish, we follow the Card
Girl out and into the room of —
A BLONDE GIRL IN A TANK TOP and shorts, working out on a
Stairmaster as "General Hospital" plays on a tiny TV. She
signs the card while continuing to exercise. We move on, to *
the room of—
A BLONDE GIRL MAKING OUT WITH HER BOYFRIEND who stops long
enough to sign the card, as her boyfriend nibbles on her
neck. She hands the card back and we head into the room of —
A BLONDE PARTY GIRL who pours a pink frozen margarita into a
glass from the blender, then passes it down to ANOTHER BLONDE *
GIRL, assembly-line style. The card goes one way, being
signed, as the drinks go the other.
Once the card arrives back in the Card Girl's hands, we
follow her out of the room and down the hall until she
reaches the very last and biggest door —
She puts a kiss mark on the card, then kneels down and slides
the card under the door.
INT. ELLE'S DELTA GAMMA ROOM - DAY - CONTINUOUS 2
The CARD slides into the pink room, hitting the feet of
UNDERDOG, a tiny chihuahua ~ who picks it up in his mouth
and trots it over to a pair of perfectly pedicured feet in
strappy sandals.
An equally perfectly manicured hand with a "Sisters Forever"
charm bracelet dangling from the wrist, scoops up Underdog.
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 2.
2 CONTINUED: 2
As he rises, we RISE WITH HIM, passing toned, waxed, tanned
legs in pink Prada pedal pushers and a pair of perky boobs
encased in a spaghetti-strap top — until we finally reveal a
magnificent head of long blonde hair and a sweet, beautiful
face. This is ELLE WOODS, 21, the Goddess Queen of Delta
Gamma. She talks on a pink, fuzzy phone.
ELLE
(into the phone)
I love you, too!
Behind her, a "Go USC" banner is pinned to the pink wall. A
stack of "Cosmopolitan"s and "Glamour"s teeters on the
dresser. The closet overflows with trendy, designer clothes
in a predominance of pink.
ELLE (CONT'D)
(continuing; into phone)
I'll see you tonight.
She hangs up and lets out a squeal of joy, kissing Underdog's
head and taking the card out of his mouth. She reads it,
touched.
ELLE (CONT'D)
(continuing)
"Elle and Warner forever". Aww...
Underdog yips.
3 INT. DELTA GAMMA HOUSE - LIVING ROOM - DAY - SAME TIME 2
A Delta Gamma/Sigma Chi barbecue in full swing. Beautiful
college students drink beer and mingle, trying to figure out
who they're going to sleep with next.
The main wall of the living room has been designated as a
"Model Wall" of Delta Gamma girls — ELLE smiles at us from a
Hawaiian Tropic ad and a Miss June USC calendar photo. A
cover of an Italian Vogue shows a blonde sexpot MARGOT; a USC
cheerleader poster displays a hard-bodied non-blonde SERENA
in a pom-pom pose.
Serena walks up, fending off an admirer.
SERENA
Jeremy, enough! I am not going to formal
with you.
Jeremy slinks off as Margot arrives, agitated.
MARGOT
Can someone please tell Rick that he is
not the only Sigma Chi with a big penis?
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 3.
CONTINUED: 3
ELLE (O.S.)
You guys are so sweet!
ELLE, a vision of fluffy blondeness, runs down the stairs
toward Serena and Margot, holding the card.
ELLE (CONT'D)
But I ' m not positive it's gonna happen
tonight —
. SERENA
Helloo...he just had lunch with his
grandmother. You know he got "The Rock".
MARGOT
Why else would she have flown in from
Newport? It's not like she'd Fed Ex a
six carat diamond.
ELLE
(excited)
You think?
SERENA
I can't believe you're getting engaged!
• . .
The three girls jump up and down, squealing and hugging.
ELLE
C'mon •— you have to help me pick out the
perfect outfit.
As they head toward the door, Elle spots AMY, a shy girl in a
Delta Gamma Pledge sweatshirt, standing alone.
ELLE (CONT'D)
(continuing)
Amy, what's wrong?
AMY
I don't really — know anyone.
ELLE
(teasing)
That's because you spend too much time in
the library. Come with me.
(to Serena and Margot)
I'll meet you outside.
As they go, Elle leads Amy over to a group of jovial Sigma
Chi brothers.
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 4.
CONTINUED: ( 2 ) 3
ELLE (CONT'D)
(continuing)
Brandon, Jason, Grant —this is Amy.
Why don't you tell her about the time you
guys went golfing naked?
Elle winks at Amy and.heads off as the guys launch into their
story.
BRANDON
It was classic. Jason hit with wood all
day.
GRANT
And we never ran out of balls —
Amy laughs.
Ratings
Scene 2 - Elle's Proposal Preparations: A Dress Fitting Adventure
Serena and Margot watch as Elle stands in front of a mirror,
trying on a Herve Leger white mini-dress. Sexy and ultra-
tight. ;
ELLE
Too demure?
MARGOT
I think you should go with red. It's the
color of confidence.
ELLE
Well, I don't want to look like I know
what's coming. . .
SERENA
I don't understand why you're completely
disregarding your signature color.
She holds up a tiny pink slipdress.
ELLE
He's proposing! I can't look like I
would on any date. This is the date. The
night I'll always remember. I want to
look special. Bridal . . . but not like I
suspect anything.
ACROSS THE STORE
A SALESWOMAN looks at her cohort.
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 5.
CONTINUED: 4
SALESWOMAN
(sot.to)
There ' s nothing I love more than a dumb
blonde with daddy's plastic.
She grabs a dress off the Clearance Sale rack, ripping off
the "HALF PRICE" TAG.
ON ELLE AND THE GIRLS
. SERENA
I can't wait to see you wearing The Rock!
Elle looks at them, suddenly concerned.
ELLE
What if — you know — it's not the
night?
MARGOT
Why else would he be taking you to The
Ivy? You've been dating for a year —
it's not like he's trying to impress you. *
SERENA *
Elle, you've heard the man pass gas in *
his sleep. That practically means you're *
pre-engaged. '"*
The Saleswoman approaches with the dress, kiss-assy smile on
her face.
SALESWOMAN
Did you see this one? We just got it in
yesterday.
Elle fingers the dress, then the new price tag, looking back
at the saleswoman, excited.
ELLE
Is this a low-viscosity rayon?
SALESWOMAN
Uh, yes — of course.
ELLE
With half-loop top-stitching on the hem?
SALESWOMAN
(smiling a lie)
Absolutely. It's one of a kind.
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 6.
CONTINUED: ( 2 ) . • 4
^ Elle hands the dress back to her, no longer pretending to be
excited.
ELLE
It's impossible to use a half-loop
topstitch on low-viscosity rayon. It
would snag the fabric. And you didn't
just get this in, because I remember it
from the June Vogue a year ago, so if
you're trying to sell it to me at full
price, you picked the wrong girl.
The saleswoman slinks off, embarrassed.
MARGOT
(to the saleswoman)
Nice try...
Elle shakes her head and turns back to the girls as she slips
on her Manolo Blahnik sandals, doing one last mirror check,
smoothing down her golden mane.
ELLE
(dramatically)
Girls, this is it. In a few hours, I'll
be the future Mrs. Warner Huntington III.
5 EXT, DELTA GAMMA HOUSE - NIGHT
An attractive male finger presses the doorbell.
Ratings
Scene 3 - The Breakup at The Ivy
Amy peeks through the peephole and turns.
AMY
(whispering)
He's here!
Elle, standing nearby with Margot and Serena and several
other DG's, smooths down her dress and takes a deep breath,
opening the door to find —
WARNER HUNTINGTON, III, 21, tall, chiseled and outrageously
handsome. He takes her in, a smile spreading across his
face.
WARNER
You're beautiful.
ELLE
So are you!
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) .7.
CONTINUED: 6
She looks up at him, blushing and completely smitten. They
kiss. After a moment,-Warner extracts himself.
WARNER
(nervous)
You ready?
Her face is awash with devotion.
ELLE
I am so ready.
7 EXT. THE IVY - NIGHT
Warner and Elle are seated at a cozy table on the patio.
Elle takes a sip from her freshly poured champagne flute.
Nervous and excited.
ELLE
Here's to ~ us.
Warner is slower to sip his.
WARNER
The reason I wanted to come here tonight
was to discuss our future.
Elle is on the edge of her seat.
ELLE
I ' m fully amenable to that discussion.
WARNER
I mean, we're having a lot of fun now —
but things are gonna be different when
I ' m at Harvard Law school is a completely
different world. I need to be serious.
ELLE
Of course.
WARNER
My family expects a lot from me. And I
expect a lot from me. I .plan on running
for office some day.
ELLE
And I fully support that.
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 8.
7 CONTINUED: 7
WARNER
But the thing is, if I ' m gonna be a
senator by the time I ' m thirty — I can't
keep dicking around.
ELLE
I completely agree.
WARNER
That's why I think it's time for us to—
Elle takes a deep breath, filled with anticipation.
WARNER (CONT'D)
(continuing) . . • > . ' .
I think we should break up.
Elle's champagne glass drops from her hand and CRASHES onto
the patio.
ELLE
What?
Elle starts to flush, completely caught off guard.
WARNER
I ' m sorry, Elle, I just —
ELLE
You're breaking up with me?!
(tearing up)
I thought you were proposing.
WARNER
Proposing?! Elle, If I ' m going to be a
politician, I need to marry a Jackie, not
a — Marilyn.
ELLE
(stunned)
You're breaking up with me because I ' m
too -- blonde?
WARNER
That's not entirely —
ELLE
Then what? My boobs are too big?
WARNER.
Elle — no --• your boobs are fine —
Her tears start.
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) .9.
CONTINUED: (2) i
ELLE
So when you said you'd always love me,
you were just "dicking around"?
Warner looks around the restaurant nervously.
WARNER
I do love you, Elle. I just can't marry you.
You have no idea the pressure I ' m under. My
family has five generations of senators. My
brother is in the top three at Yale Law. He • *
just got engaged to a Vanderbilt, for crissakes. *
Elle stares at him aghast, tears streaming down her face,
then pushes her chair away from the table and walks out.
WARNER (CONT'D)
(continuing)
It's not like I have a choice, sweetheart *
He follows her out.
Ratings
Scene 4 - A Night of Heartbreak and Support
Elle teeters down the sidewalk as best she can in her three *
inch heels, sobbing. Warner pulls up alongside her in his
convertible Saab.
WARNER
C'mon. Let me take you home.
ELLE
No.
WARNER
Elle — it's twenty miles back to campus.
Elle stops, thinks a minute, then gets in, still crying.
Catching her poofy little purse in the door. She re-opens
it, yanking the purse back in. Warner pulls out.
9 EXT. DELTA GAMMA HOUSE - USC - NIGHT 9
Warner pulls up in front. It's a starry, romantic night.
Everything should be perfect. It's not.
Elle sits, still in shock, as tears continue to eke out.
WARNER
Elle, believe me, I never expected to be
doing this, but I think it's the right
thing to do.
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 10.
CONTINUED: 9
ELLE
How can it be the right thing if we're
not together?
WARNER .
I have to think about my future. And what
people expect from me.
ELLE
So you're breaking up with me because
you're afraid your family won't like me?
(through her tears)
Everybody likes me!
WARNER
East coast people are different.
ELLE
Just because I ' m not a Vanderbilt, all of
a sudden I ' m white trash? I grew up in
Bel Air, Warner! Across the street from
Aaron Spelling! I think most people
would agree that's way better than a
Vanderbilt —
WARNER
I told you, Elle. I need someone —
serious.
ELLE
I ' m seriously in love with you — Isn't
that enough? He looks away.
WARNER
I'm sorry.
She gets out of the car and drags herself up the stairs to
her sorority house. When she's at the top, she turns back to
look at him. His perfect cheekbones highlighted by the
streetlamp.
He meets her eyes, pained, but determined. Then pulls away,
leaving her there.
10 INT. DELTA GAMMA HOUSE - USC - NIGHT 10
Elle walks down the pink and green carpeted hall, dazed and
tear-stained.
Margot and Serena emerge from the bathroom, post-shower.
Getting ready for a night out.
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) . 1:L-
10 CONTINUED: 10
MARGOT
Why are you back so soon?
Serena sees Elle's bare hand.
SERENA .
Did he forget the ring?
Elle silently walks into her room. Serena and Margot follow,
worried.
11 INT. ELLE'S DELTA GAMMA ROOM - NIGHT - CONTINUOUS 11
Elle slumps down in an inflatable chair, hugging her knees
and cowering in a wretched little ball. Underdog stares at
her, concerned.
Serena and Margot stand in the door.
MARGOT
Elle?
SERENA
Where's the Rock?
ELLE •.*
We're not engaged. It's over! .•.*
SERENA AND MARGOT *
What?! *
ELLE *.
He broke up with me! *
Serena and Margot gasp in horror, rushing to her side. *
SERENA
Is it a Kappa?
MARGOT
It's not a Theta —
ELLE
No — it's just — not me.
I ' m canceling the mixer. We'll blacklist
Sigma Chi.
ELLE
Thank you, Serena, but I don't think
it'll do any good.
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 12.
11 CONTINUED: 11
SERENA
What happened?
Elle starts to lose it again.
; ELLE
I don't know! Everything was normal at
first and then he said he needed someone
more —
(sob-choked)
Serious! .
MARGOT
Serious?! Who the hell does he think he
is? Y ou're the most popu lar month on the
USC calendar!
She points to Elle's "Miss June" page, hanging on the wall.
SERENA
Oh, he is so over on this campus.
ELLE
I just don 't underst and what went wrong —
MARGOT
Maybe it's the grandmother. Have you
e ve r me t he r?
Elle wipes her face.
ELLE
Last month on his birthday. And she
liked me! She said I looked like Britney
Spears. Why would you say that to
someone you didn't like?
They shrug, mystified.
SERENA
How could this happen?
ELLE
I don't know! I don't know anything any
more!
(wiping a tear)
I just need to be by myself.
SERENA
Are you sure?
Elle nods. The girls rise, hugging her.
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 13.
11 CONTINUED: (2) 11
MARGOT
We still love you. Sisters forever!
ELLE
(sniffling)
Thank you. I love you, too.
As they go, Margot looks at Serena.
MARGOT
Oh, God. What if Josh doesn't think I ' m
serious enough? .
SERENA
Helloo... you let him have anal sex with
you.
(TV VERSION) *
Helloo... you let him videotape you *
diddling yourself. •*
MARGOT
You're right. Phew!
As the girls go, they shut the door behind them.
Elle gets up and grabs a FRAMED PHOTO of Warner, then lies
down on her bed, clutching it to her heart. Underdog leaps
up and gives her little doggy kisses.
Ratings
Scene 5 - Elle's Melancholy: Navigating a Breakup and Uncertain Future
The sun rises on a sad day. "HOPELESSLY DEVOTED" by Olivia *•
Newton-John plays. . *
13 INT. DELTA GAMMA HOUSE - HALLWAY - DAY 13
Amy knocks on Elle's door.
AMY
Elle?
ANOTHER SISTER passes.
ANOTHER SISTER •
(whispering)
Didn't you hear?
She leads a reluctant Amy down the hall.
14 INT. ELLE'S DELTA GAMMA ROOM - DAY 14
Spread out on the bed are PICTURES of Elle and Warner: The
Sigma Chi formal; their Homecoming Queen and King "wave"; *
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 14.
14 CONTINUED: 14
a 60's party; Mardi Gras night; beach weekend at Coronado.
Next to the pictures are thirty dried Ecuardorian long-
stemmed pink roses, remnants of their one year anniversary.
In the center sits Elle, wearing Warner's old oversized Sigma
Chi t-shirt, clutching a Gund teddybear. Depressed and
looking like hell, she speaks to an unseen confidante.
ELLE
I just love him so much! I loved him the
first moment I saw him. He's beautiful
and smart and someone I totally respect.
And I did everything I could to make him
love me, but it wasn't enough. Now what
am I supposed to do? I planned my whole
future around him. My life was going to
be all about Warner. Now what's it going
to be about?
She looks up — waiting. Staring back at her is Underdog —
who sadly has no answers for her.
15 INT. ELLE'S DELTA GAMMA ROOM - DAY 15
Elle remains in bed, Underdog now clutched to her chest,
soaps on the TV.
TV SOAP STUD
(on TV)
"Oh, darling. I'll love you forever."
ELLE
(teary)
Bullshit!
Serena and Margot enter, bearing Jamba Juice. *
MARGOT *
Honey, stop! You have to leave this room *
— it's been a week. *
ELLE
So?
+
Serena sits down on the edge of the bed, trying to psyche *
Elle up.
SERENA *
What's the thing that always makes us *
feel better, no matter what? . *
MARGOT *
Cunnilingus? *
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 15.
15 CONTINUED: 15
Elle lets out a wail, realizing what she'll be missing. *
Serena shoots Margot a stern look. *
SERENA *
No — the thing after that, *
16 INT. UPSCALE MANICURE SHOP - DAY 16 *
A row of uniformed manicurists and their classy clients. *
Chattering away. Therapy in full session. Serena sits in
front of her regular nail technician.
SERENA
It was awful. We all thought she'd be
the first to walk down the aisle and now
she's totally adrift.
The nail technician shakes her head in shared girl-power-
angst — looking over at Elle, who sits in the waiting area,
shell-shocked, but showered. *
Elle picks up the only magazine left on the table — "Town &
Country". She wrinkles her nose. An OLD LADY next to her
reads "Seventeen". Elle looks at her, begrudging the access
to teen beauty tips, and flips through "Town & Country"
noisily until she freezes on— the Engagement Section. She
gasps.
ELLE
Oh, my God! .
She looks at a PHOTO of a horse-faced YOUNG WOMAN standing
next to a THREE-YEARS-OLDER VERSION OF WARNER. She turns to
the old lady next to her.
ELLE (CONT'D)
(continuing)
Do you know who this is?
The old lady looks.
OLD LADY
No.
ELLE
It's Warner's older brother!
OLD LADY
Who?
Elle continues, undaunted.
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 16.
16 CONTINUED: 16
ELLE
He just got engaged to this — this very
unfortunate-looking girl.
(reading)
"Third year Yale Law student Putnam Bowes
Huntington III and his fiance Layne
Walker Vanderbilt, first year Yale Law."
She turns to the old lady.
ELLE (CONT'D)
(continuing)
This is the type-of girl Warner wants to
marry. This is what I need to become to
be serious.
The old lady looks at the picture.
OLD LADY
Butt ugly?
ELLE
No -- a law student.
Elle rushes out. Serena looks after her.
SERENA
Elle?
(turning back to her nail
technician)
She'll never get him back with those
cuticles.
Ratings
Scene 6 - Elle's Surprising Ambition: A Step Closer to Winning Warner Back
Elle sits in front of her ADVISOR.
ADVISOR
(flummoxed)
Harvard Law School?
ELLE
That's right.
ADVISOR
But it's a top three school —
ELLE
(offended)
I have a 4.0.
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 17.
17 CONTINUED: 17
ADVISOR
Yes, but your major is Fashion
Merchandising. Harvard won't be
impressed that you aced "History of
Lycra". What are your backups?
ELLE
I don't need backups. Harvard is the
school I' m going to.
He decides to humor her.
ADVISOR
Well, then. You'll need excellent
recommendations from your professors, a
heck of an admissions essay and at least
a one-seventy-five on your LSATs.
ELLE
(confident)
I once had to judge a Theta Chi Tighty-
Whitey contest. Trust me— I can handle
anything.
18 INT. ELLE'S DELTA GAMMA ROOM - DAY 18
Elle sits on the floor surrounded by piles of LSAT prep
books, the framed photo of Warner, and Underdog.
There's a KNOCK at the door as Serena and Margot peek inside,
gasping in horror at the sight of books.
MARGOT
What are you doing?!
Elle smiles brightly at them.
ELLE
Reading about the LSATs.
Margot looks at Serena, confused.
SERENA
(in a horrified whisper)
My cousin had them. Apparently you get a
really bad rash on your —
Elle interrupts her.
ELLE
The LSATs are an exam.
She takes a deep breath.
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 18.
18 CONTINUED: 18
ELLE (CONT'D)
(continuing)
Girls— I ' m going to Harvard!
• SERENA
What, like on va-kay?
MARGOT
Let's all go! Road trip!
. SERENA
Wait — Cecil has a condo in Tahoe.
Let's go there!
ELLE
No — I ' m going to law school at Harvard.
They look at her, confused.
MARGOT
Why?!
SERENA
I mean, I know you're upset and all, but
can't you just take a sedative?
Elle rolls her eyes at their naivete.
ELLE
Once Warner sees me as a serious law
student, he'll want me back. It's a
completely brilliant plan!
MARGOT
But isn't it kind of hard to get into law
school?
ELLE
I have the highest GPA in Delta Gamma!
Margot pulls something off her wrist and hands it to Elle.
MARGOT
Here. You're gonna need this.
ELLE
Your scrunchie?
MARGOT
My lucky scrunchie. It helped me pass
Spanish.
Serena rolls her eyes and looks at Margot disapprovingly.
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 19.
18 CONTINUED: (2) 18
SERENA
You passed Spanish because you gave
Professor Montoya a hand-job after the
final.
MARGOT
(duh)
Yeah, luckily.
A MONTAGE OF THE NEXT 3 MONTHS BEGINS WITH...
Ratings
Scene 7 - Elle Woods' Multi-tasking and Frustration: Balancing Sorority Life and LSAT Preparation
ON VIDEO, Elle sits in a Jacuzzi in her bikini.
ELLE
(to the camera)
My name is Elle Woods and for my
admissions essay, I ' d like to tell all of
you at Harvard why I ' m going to make an *
amazing lawyer.
20 INT. KAPPA SIG LIVING ROOM - NIGHT 20
The girls watch a horror movie with Kappa Sigs. Eating
popcorn and drinking red wine.
Off to the side, Elle reads an LSAT Study Guide.
21 INT. DELTA GAMMA HOUSE - LIVING ROOM - DAY 21
ON VIDEO, a Delta Gamma chapter meeting takes place.
ELLE (V.O.)
As president of my sorority, I ' m skilled
at commanding the attention of a room and
discussing important issues.
Elle bangs a gavel, as she sits in front of her sisters.
ELLE (CONT'D) *
~ It has come to my attention that the *
maintenance staff is switching our toilet *
paper from Charmin to generic. All those *
opposed to chafing, pleas.e say "aye". *
The sisters "AYE" in unison. Underdog barks his approval. *
22 INT. CLASSROOM - NIGHT 22
"LSAT Prep Course" is written on the board. Elle and forty
other law school hopefuls take notes furiously as practice
questions are reviewed.
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 20.
23 EXT. WOODS BACKYARD POOL - DAY 23 *
ON VIDEO, FROM ABOVE, we see Elle as she floats on a raft in
her pool, in a pink Versace bikini. She addresses the *
camera. *
ELLE
(to the camera)
I ' m able to recall hundreds of important
details at the drop of a hat.
We reveal Margot on a raft beside her. *
MARGOT
(badly acting)
Elle, do you know what happened on "Days
of Our Lives" yesterday?
ELLE
Why, yes, Margot, I do. Once again, we
joined Hope in the search for her
identity. As you know, she's been .
brainwashed by the evil Stefano —
24 INT. DELTA GAMMA HOUSE - LIVING ROOM - DAY 24
Elle takes a practice LSAT exam as Serena, Margot and a few
other Delta Gammas do their butt-crunches in the Delta Gamma
living room.
Serena, while clenching her tush, hits a stop watch and Elle
starts writing furiously.
DISSOLVE TO:
Margot is now on all-fours, doing donkey kicks as she grades
Elle's practice exam. She writes "143" on top and holds it
up to Elle.
Elle slumps with frustration.
25 EXT. BEACH - DAY • 25
ON VIDEO, Elle is rollerblading in shorts and a tank top.
ELLE
(to the camera)
And the laws and bi-laws of civil
obedience are crucial to my life —
Serena skates by and fake-elbows Elle.
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 21.
25 CONTINUED: 25
ELLE (CONT'D)
(continuing; calling after her)
No shoving on the skate path! City
ordinance 22G!
Ratings
Scene 8 - Elle's LSAT Study Session and Dylan McDermott Encounter
Elle sits in front of Amy, as Amy quizzes her with practice
LSAT questions. Books are piled high around them.
Elle gazes out the.window to see —-Warner and some BARE-
CHESTED FRATERNITY BOYS carrying a keg across the quad. Her
eyes light up and she looks at Amy pleadingly. Amy shakes her
head no. Elle slumps, then rises and goes to the window,
closing the shades and getting back to work.
•27 EXT. USC CAMPUS - DAY 27
ON VIDEO, Elle addresses the camera.
ELLE
I feel confident using legal jargon in
daily life.
CUT TO:
ON VIDEO, Elle walks across campus with Underdog in her
purse, feigning staged innocence. A RANDOM FRAT BOY pinches
her butt. She slaps his hand, dramatically.
ELLE (CONT'D)
I object!
28 INT. AUDITORIUM - DAY 28
"LSAT EXAM — Sections 1-6" is scrawled on the chalk board.
Elle sits in an auditorium with about 90 other students, LSAT
booklet open, filling in answers. Concentrating so hard
she's practically getting a forehead wrinkle.
29 INT. ELLE'S DELTA GAMMA ROOM - DAY 29
ON VIDEO, Elle speaks to the camera.
ELLE
(to the camera)
I've seen every episode of "The Practice"
and I ' m even on speaking terms with Dylan
McDermott.
CUT TO:
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 22.
30 EXT. DYLAN MCDERMOTT'S HOUSE - DAY 30
Dylan McDermott gets into his car and pulls out of his
driveway.
VIDEOTAPING MADLY, the girls follow in Elle's Boxster. *
SERENA
There he is!
. MARGOT
Pull up next to him!
Elle swerves around to pull up next to Dylan McDermott. They
scream at him as Serena videotapes.
ELLE
Dylan! We love you!
Dylan McDermott burns rubber as he flees.
31 EXT. USC CAMPUS - DAY 31 "*
ON.VIDEO, Elle jogs while she addresses the camera. *
ELLE :*
(to camera) . .*
I'm totally focused and goal-oriented. *
Plus I ' m able to sway people with my very *
convincing arguments. . *
She turns to Serena, jogging next to her. *
ELLE (CONT'D)
(continuing)
Calvin Klein's spring line is atrocious.
Don't you agree?
SERENA
(convinced)
Absolutely!
Ratings
Scene 9 - Elle's LSAT Triumph and Unconventional Acceptance into Harvard Law
Amy rushes in with a stack of mail, waving an LSAT envelope
as she calls out.
AMY
It's here!
Elle rushes down the stairs as the other Delta Gammas gather
around. Elle takes the envelope and says a quick prayer.
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 23.
32 CONTINUED: 32
ELLE
One seventy-five...one seventy- five...
She opens it and stares at it for a long moment. Then turns
it to the crowd and raises it above her head in triumph. The
girls immediately begin jumping up and down as group joy
ensues. Underdog yips with pride. The MONTAGE ENDS.
33 INT. HARVARD LAW ADMISSIONS OFFICE - DAY 33
ON THE TV, Elle stands up in the Jacuzzi.
ELLE
(on TV)
And that's why you should vote for me.
Elle Woods. Future lawyer. For the Class
of 2003.
The video is PAUSED, as three ADMISSIONS GUYS in their 4.0's
sit at a table piled high with applications, the DEAN OF
ADMISSIONS at the head of it. STUNNED SILENCE fills the room.
Finally one of them speaks.
ADMISSIONS GUY #1
That was certainly a very —
(adjusting himself)
Imaginative essay.
ADMISSIONS GUY #2
(to the Dean)
She does have a 4.0 from USC and she got
a one-seventy-nine on her LSATs.
DEAN OF ADMISSIONS
A fashion major?
ADMISSIONS GUY #3
Well, we've never had one before...
aren't we always looking for diversity?
AMISSIONS GUY #1
Her list of extracurriculars is
impressive.
The Dean looks at her application.
DEAN OF ADMISSIONS
(unimpressed)
She was in a Ricky Martin video —
ADMISSIONS GUY #2
Clearly, she's interested in music...
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 24.
33 CONTINUED: 33
DEAN OF ADMISSIONS
(reading on; skeptical)
She also designed a line of faux fur
panties for her sorority's charity
project --
ADMISSIONS GUY #3
Then she's a friend to animals as well as *
a philanthropist. *
. AMISSIONS GUY #1
I think it's obvious that she's a very
well-rounded individual.
He points to Elle — freeze-framed in her bikini-top on
video, on the TV. The admissions guys look to the Dean. He
folds.
DEAN OF ADMISSIONS
Elle Woods — Welcome to Harvard. *
Ratings
Scene 10 - Elle's Arrival at Harvard: Doubts and Determination
Elle's parents — DANIEL, in tennis clothes, and the face-
lifted SAPPHIRE — stare at Elle over juice by the pool.
DANIEL
(frowning)
Law school?
Sapphire puts a hand to her throat in distress. Elle is
confused.
ELLE
It's a perfectly respectable place...
DANIEL
Sweetheart, you don't need law school.
Law school is for people who are boring
and ugly and Serious. And you, button/
are none of those things.
Sapphire is in agreement.
SAPPHIRE
You were first runner-up in the Miss
Hawaiian Tropic contest. Why throw all
that away?
ELLE
Because this is what I want. I've worked
hard for it. Don't you understand that
this is important to me?
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 25.
34 CONTINUED: 34
She looks at her uncomprehending parents.
ELLE (CONT'D)
(continuing)
Going to Harvard is the only way I can *
get the love of my life back!
Sapphire looks at her, still not getting it. • *
SAPPHIRE
Can't you just suck his wiener? *
(TV VERSION) *
Can't you just get your nose done? *
Elle reacts to her mother's skewed logic. *•
35 EXT. HARVARD DORM - DAY 35 *
Pale, studious LAW STUDENTS clad in earth tones, move into
their dorm, carrying in their spartan belongings (coffee
makers, books, computers).
In the distance, a HAPPY POP SONG (perhaps "Heaven Tonight by *
Hole) is heard. As it gets louder, heads turn to see — *
A silver, convertible Boxster driving up, Elle at the wheel,/ *
MUSIC BLASTING. A large MOVING VAN follows the Boxster. *
People lean out of their windows, buzzing with interest as—
Elle's car stops in front of the dorm. She hops out,
scooping up Underdog and looking every inch the LA-Fred-Segal-
glamour-queen, as she looks around with a smile.
Elle looks at Underdog.
ELLE
We're here!
She bends down to pour some Evian into his inflatable doggy
dish, inadvertently revealing cleavage to a passing
BESPECTACLED BOY (several yards away).
He trips, dropping his I-MAC. It shatters into a million
pieces.
Not noticing/ Elle stands and turns to two MOVING GUYS/ who
are hauling a pink, faux-fur love seat and a potted palm tree
out of the truck.
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 26.
35 CONTINUED: 35
ELLE (CONT'D)
(continuing)
This way, guys!
With a beauty queen smile in place, she strides into the dorm *
as the other students watch in amazement.
HANGING OUT OF THE WINDOW
ARROGANT AARON, a Mensa geek with attitude, turns to his
roommate.
ARROGANT AARON
Whose knob did she honk to get in here?
36 EXT. LAW SCHOOL QUAD - DAY 36
"Welcome Law Students Class of 2003" banners hang over
orientation tables manned by second year law students (2L's)
wearing red t-shirts. Club tables with banners that read
"Harvard Law Journal" and "Environmental Law Association" are *
set up nearby.
Elle takes a packet from a fuzzy MALE 2L.
FUZZY 2L
Class schedule, map, book list.
ELLE
Has Warner Huntington checked in yet?
FUZZY 2L
(checking)
Uh, no. Maybe you should try the Lido *
deck. *
She frowns and starts to move on, but then looks through the
packet with a frown and turns back.
ELLE
Wait — my social events schedule is .
missing.
FUZZY 2L
Your what?
ELLE
You know — mixers, formals, beach
• trips.
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 27.
36 CONTINUED: . 36
FUZZY 2L
(deadpan)
There's a pizza welcome lunch in twenty
minutes. Does that count?
ELLE
(wrinkling her nose)
I guess it'll have t o . . .
The Fuzzy Guy looks at the red-shirted BALD 2L next to him,
as Elle walks off. ,
FUZZY 2L
What the hell.was that?
BALD 2L
(watching her go)
Malibu Barbie lives.
Ratings
Scene 11 - Elle's Law School Beginning and Warner Reunion
Elle sits at the outdoor table, ignoring her slice of pizza,
as she looks around for Warner. Not finding him, she turns
her attention to the Group Leader, a BURNED OUT 2L in a red t-
shirt.
BURNED OUT 2L
Okay. Welcome to law school. This is the
part where we go around in a circle and
everyone says a little bit about
themselves. Let's start with you.
He gestures at a guy with glasses, DORKY DAVID.
DORKY DAVID
I have a Masters in Russian Literature, a
Ph.D in Biochemistry, and for the last
eighteen months, I've been de- worming
orphans in Somalia.
BURNED OUT 2L
Awesome. How about you, Enid?
ENID, a militant feminista, looks up.
ENID
Ph.D from Berkeley in Women's Studies—
emphasis in the History of Combat. And
last year, I led the march for Lesbians
Against Drunk Driving.
BURNED OUT 2L
Killer.
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 28.
37 CONTINUED: 37
He looks at an intense guy in his late twenties, IVAN.
INTENSE IVAN
I've got an MBA from Wharton, worked on
Wall Street for four years, mushed in
three ididarods and I ' ve figured out how
to crash the stock market in Sri Lanka if
any of you want to get together later.
BURNED OUT 2L
Sweet. What about you?
He looks at Elle. She sits up straight.
ELLE
I ' m a Gemini. I have a Bachelors degree
from USC, where I was Sigma Chi
Sweetheart and president of Delta Gamma,
and last year '• — I was Homecoming Queen .
She smiles, as the group leader nods, waiting.
ELLE (CONT'D)
(continuing)
Oh!
(dramatically)
Two weeks ago, I saw Cameron Diaz at Fred
Segal — and talked her out of buying a
truly heinous angora sweater! Whoever
said that orange is the new pink is
seriously disturbed.
She looks around, pleased. Enid' snickers as the rest of the
group stares at Elle, dumbfounded.
38 INT. ELLE'S DORM ROOM - DAY 38
A grey, dingy, cell-block style room — now crammed with
Elle's clothes, the pink fluffy love seat and potted palm,
along with an Elliptical Cross-Trainer, pink flamingo party
lights and a neon pink margarita glass sculpture.
Elle tries to shove a large law textbook into her tiny Prada
backpack to no avail. She gives up and tosses the book onto
the bed where Underdog leaps away to miss being squished.
ELLE
Wish me luck, Underdog. It's my first
class as a serious law student.
She kisses him and looks down at her completely inappropriate
skimpy Gucci outfit, which she accents by putting on trendy,
wire-rimmed glasses.
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 29.
38 CONTINUED: 38
ELLE (CONT'D)
(continuing; to herself)
I totally look the part!
39 INT. LAW SCHOOL HALLWAY - DAY 39
Elle heads for a classroom, amidst a crowd of students who
eye her like she's an alien. She rounds a corner, seeing —
WARNER, in all his handsome glory, looking over his schedule.
She starts toward him, as if pulled by a magnetic force.
Arrogant Aaron sees her passing by.
ARROGANT AARON
(seductively)
Hello there.. . . . . . .
Elle keeps going, not even noticing him. Eyes only for
Warner. Arrogant Aaron stomps away, pissed at the perceived
blow-off.
As Elle gets closer to Warner, she opts for wandering past
him, seemingly oblivious to his presence.
WARNER
(stunned)
Elle?!
Elle turns, ultra-nonchalant.
ELLE
Warner?! Oh my God, I completely forgot
you were going here!
He looks at her, confused. People walk by, staring.
WARNER
What're you talking about? You're not
here to see me?
ELLE
No, silly. I go here.
WARNER
(still confused)
You go where?
ELLE
Harvard. Law school.
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 30.
39 CONTINUED: 39
WARNER
v-—y Y ou g o t in to Ha rv a rd L aw ?
ELLE.
(confused at his confusion)
What, like it's that.hard?
Warner stares at her :— completely discombobulated. She
smiles sweetly and makes a show of checking her watch.
. ELLE (CONT'D)
(continuing)
Oops! Time for class. Meet me after?
On the benches?
WARNER
Uh — sure.
She sashays off with a confident smile.
Ratings
Scene 12 - Elle's Unpreparedness Leads to Embarrassment in Civil Procedures Class
Students file in and take their seats. Elle enters, looking
around nervously at the imposing auditorium. Arrogant Aaron,
next to her, leans over.
ARROGANT AARON
If you're looking for the best seat, I
hear the front row is the place to be.
Elle smiles at him.
ELLE •
Thanks.
41 INT. CIVIL PROCEDURES CLASS - DAY - LATER 41
PROFESSOR ELSPETH STROMWELL, a tough-as-nails Grande Dame in
her 50' s , addresses the class. Laptops abound — except for
Elle, who has a fuzzy pink notebook and a pen with a pink
plastic heart on the end.
PROFESSOR STROMWELL
A legal education means you will learn to
speak in a new language. You will be
taught to achieve insight into the world
around you, and to sharply question what
you know.
Everyone soaks this up. Including Elle.
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 31.
41 CONTINUED: 41
PROFESSOR STROMWELL (CONT'D)
(continuing)
The seat you've picked is yours for the
next nine months of your life. Enjoy it.
And those of you in the front row,
beware. . . .
Elle, in the front row, between two UNSHOWERED BRANIACS, •*
looks around, panicked. One of the braniacs passes her the *
seating chart and she has no choice but to sign her name.
In the back, Arrogant Aaron nudges his friend and smiles.
PROFESSOR STROMWELL (CONT'D)
(continuing)
"The law is reason free from passion."
Does anyone know who spoke those immortal
words?
Dorky David raises his hand.
PROFESSOR STROMWELL (CONT'D)
(continuing)
Yes?
DORKY DAVID
(confidently)
Aristotle.
Professor Stromwell approaches him the way Cruella de Ville
approaches a puppy.
PROFESSOR STROMWELL
Are you sure?
Now he's not.
DORKY DAVID
Yes?
PROFESSOR STROMWELL
~ Would you be willing to stake your life
on it?
DORKY DAVID
I think so...
PROFESSOR STROMWELL
How about —
She spins around, roughly POKING another student in the head.
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 32.
41 CONTINUED: (2) 41
PROFESSOR STROMWELL (CONT'D)
(continuing)
— his life?
DORKY DAVID
(scared)
I don't know.
PROFESSOR STROMWELL
Well, I recommend knowing before
speaking.. The law leaves much room for
interpretation — but very little for
self-doubt.
As she turns away —
PROFESSOR STROMWELL (CONT'D)
(continuing)
And you were right. It was Aristotle.
The class half-laughs in relief.
PROFESSOR STROMWELL (CONT'D)
(continuing)
I assume you've all read pages 1- 48 and
are now well-versed in subject matter
jurisdiction.
Elle looks around, surprised, as students open their books.
PROFESSOR STROMWELL (CONT'D)
(continuing)
Who can tell us about Gordon v. Steele?
Silence. Stromwell looks down at the seating chart.
PROFESSOR STROMWELL (CONT'D)
(continuing)
Ivan Greenstein?
Intense Ivan straightens in his' seat.
IVAN
Gordon sued her doctors for malpractice.
PROFESSOR STROMWELL
And what did the dispute entail?
(looking at her chart)
Let's call on someone in the hot zone.
Elle Woods? Elle looks up, distressed.
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 33.
41 CONTINUED: (3) 41
ELLE
Uh... I wasn't aware that we had an
assignment.
PROFESSOR STROMWELL
(looking at her chart)
Sarah Knottingham?
SARAH KNOTTINGHAM — a prim and preppy blue-blood brunette,
dressed in pearls and a sweater set — looks up.
PROFESSOR STROMWELL (CONT'D)
(continuing)
Do you think it's acceptable that Ms.
Woods is unprepared?
Sarah looks over at Elle. Elle gives her a mortified smile.
Sarah turns back to Professor Stromwell.
SARAH
No, I don't.
PROFESSOR STROMWELL
Would you support my decision to ask her
to leave and return to class only when
she is prepared?
SARAH
Absolutely.
Elle can't believe that this girl would betray her. Having
no choice,, she gathers her purse and goes, completely
humiliated. Professor Stromwell returns to the matter at
hand.
PROFESSOR STROMWELL
Now, Ms. Knottingham, did diversity
jurisdiction'exist in this case?
Ratings
Scene 13 - Elle's First Day of Classes: Revelations and Heartbreak
EMMETT — a shy and quirkily handsome 28-year-old who could
pass for younger — sits on a bench, going over some papers.
He looks up and spots Elle — sitting across from him —
looking traumatized.
EMMETT
Are you okay?
Elle looks up, snapping out of her stupor.
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 34.
42 CONTINUED: . 42
ELLE
Do they just — put you on the spot like
that? Like, all the time?
EMMETT
The professors? Yeah, they tend- to do
that. Socratic method.
ELLE
And if you don't know the answer, they
just kick you out?
He smiles.
EMMETT
You have Stromwell.
ELLE
(hopeful)
Did she do that to you, too?
EMMETT
No, but she made me cry once. Not in
class — I waited until I got to my room,
but yeah, she can pretty much shrivel
your balls — or you know, your
whatevers .
ELLE
(stricken)
Neat . • ' , '
EMMETT
Don't worry. It gets better. Who else
do you have?
Elle looks at her schedule.
ELLE
Donovan, Royalton and Levinson.
EMMETT
Speak up in Donovan's class. He likes
people with an opinion. Sit in the back
for Royalton. He tends to spit when he
talks about products liability.
Elle makes a face. He smiles. Liking her.
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 35.
42 CONTINUED: ( 2 ) 42
EMMETT (CONT'D)
(continuing)
And make sure you read the footnotes in
Levinson's class. That's where all her
exam questions come from.
ELLE
Wow. I ' m glad I met you.
She smiles at him, grateful.
EMMETT
Oh, and getting one of Stromwell's daily
quotes right is almost as important as
acing the mid-term. But you didn't hear
it from me.
Students trickle out of the building.
ELLE " .:.
Are you a third-year?
Warner walks up, behind Emmett, interrupting.
WARNER
Hey.
Elle looks up, pure adoration on her face.
ELLE
Hi!
Emmett rises and walks off.
EMMETT
Good luck.
ELLE
(calling after him)
Thanks again for your help!
Warner remains standing, still somewhat uncomfortable with
her presence here.
WARNER
So — uh — how was your first class?
ELLE
Fine. Except for this horrible girl who
made me look bad in front of my Civ Pro
professor. But no biggie. You're here
now.
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 36.
42 CONTINUED: (3) 42
ELLE (CONT'D)
(perky)
How was your summer?
She pats the bench beside her. He doesn't move.
• WARNER
(distracted)
Good. Good.
ELLE
Do anything exciting?
A female hand snakes around Warner's chest from behind.
Warner turns and brings the owner of the hand around to his
side, presenting her.
WARNER
(nervous)
Urn, hey, have you met Sarah?
Sarah, the horrible girl herself, holds out her hand to Elle,
full of contempt.
SARAH
Hi. Sarah Knottingham.
ELLE
(to Warner; horrified)
• You know her?
WARNER
She's —
Sarah jumps in. •
SARAH .
— I ' m his fiancee.
Elle stares at her. Sarah tucks a piece of her mousy brown
hair behind her ear and there it is — The Rock.
ELLE
(in disbelief)
I ' m sorry, I just hallucinated.
WARNER
Sarah was my girlfriend at prep school.
We got back together over the summer at
my grandmother's birthday party.
Elle looks stricken. Sarah gives her a smug smile.
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 37.
42 CONTINUED: (.4) 42
SARAH
Warner told me all about you. You're
famous at our Club.
She says it in a way that is anything but flattering. In
fact, it's completely condescending.
SARAH (CONT'D)
(continuing; pointedly)
But he didn't tell me you'd be here.
WARNER
I didn't know —
Elle looks from Warner to Sarah.
ELLE
Excuse me.
She rushes off. Sarah watches her go, a smug grin on her
face, • ' • • ••
SARAH
(to Warner)
I thought you said she was pretty.
Ratings
Scene 14 - Heartbreak and Hope at Beauty Oasis
Elle drives, wiping the tears from her face. She spots
something off to the side and SWERVES her car toward it, a
gasp of hope escaping her lips.
Her car stops in front of a strip mall salon called "Beauty *
Oasis". *
44 INT. BEAUTY OASIS - DAY 44 *
A downscale, blue-collar salon, with five hair chairs and two *
manicure stations. Old ladies and young waitresses get perms. *
PAULETTE —early 40s, lower-middle class, hard-edged, plus- *
sirzed — looks up as a defeated Elle sinks into the manicure *
chair.(The manicure station is plastered with pictures of *
RUFUS, a big, slobbering pit-bull). • *
PAULETTE
Bad day?
Elle holds out her hands. Paulette dips them into a dish of
soapy water.
ELLE
You can't even imagine.
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 38.
44 CONTINUED: 44
PAULETTE
.Spill.,
Elle lets it all out in a rush.
ELLE
I worked really hard to get into law
school — I blew off Spring Break and
Greek Week to study for the LSATs, I
completely neglected my Homecoming Queen
duties, I hired a Coppola to direct my
admissions video — all so I could get my
boyfriend Warner back and now he's *
engaged to this awful girl Sarah so it
was all for nothing! I wish I ' d never
even come to Harvard. *
Paulette dries Elle's hands and begins filing.
PAULETTE
After you went to all that trouble?
ELLE :
Well, what am I supposed to do? He's
engaged! She's got the family six-carat
on her bony, unpolished finger.
PAULETTE *
You're asking the wrong girl. I ' m with *
my guy eight years and then one day it's *
"I met someone else. Move out." *
ELLE *
(horrified) *
What'd you do? *
PAULETTE *
Cried a lot and gained twenty pounds. *
Dewey kept the trailer and my precious *
baby Rufus. I got jackcrap. *
She looks at a picture of the pit-bull. *
PAULETTE (CONT'D) *
(continuing; re the dog) *
I didn't even get to go to his birthday *
party. *
ELLE *
No! *
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 39.
44 CONTINUED: ( 2 ) 44
PAULETTE *
What could I do? *
(shrugging) *
He's a man who followed his pecker to *
greener pastures. I ' m a middle-aged high- *
school dropout with stretch marks and a *
fat ass. Happens every day. At least to *
women like me. *
ELLE . *•
That's terrible! *
PAULETTE *
So, what's this Sarah got that you don't? *
Three tits? -*
ELLE *
She's from Connecticut. She belongs to
his stupid country club.
PAULETTE
Is she as pretty as you?
Elle looks down.
ELLE
(embarrassed)
I ' m not pretty — I ' m genetically
blessed.
Paulette rolls her eyes, shaking her bottle of polish and
starting on Elle's right hand.
PAULETTE
Is sJie.? "*
ELLE
She could use some mascara and some
serious highlights, but she's not
completely unfortunate- looking.
UPS GUY (O.S.) *
Hello, ladies. *
Paulette looks up to see the UPS GUY, a strapping hunk of a *
man in his late 30' s . She blushes and smooths down her hair, *
knocking over a bottle of nail polish in the process. Trying *
to play it off as she signs for the package. *
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 40.
44 CONTINUED: ( 3 ) 44
UPS GUY (CONT'D) . *
See ya later. *
He goes. Paulette watches him. Elle notices. *
PAULETTE *
(hating herself) . *
Could I be anymore goddamn spastic? *
(beat) *
So you're sure, this Warner guy is "the *
one"?
ELLE
Definitely! I love him!
Paulette looks at her. *
PAULETTE
If a girl like you can't hold on to her *
man -- then there sure as hell isn't any *
hope for the rest of us. What're you *
waiting for? Steal the bastard back. *
Ratings
Scene 15 - Elle's Challenge: Reconnecting with Warner and Rising above Sarah
Elle knocks on Warner's door, bottle of wine and two glasses
in hand.
ELLE
Warner?
When she gets no answer, she write a message on his memo
board -- CLOSE ON— "Call me! Love, You Know Who".
She leaves the wine bottle and two glasses and goes.
46 EXT. HARVARD LAW CAMPUS - DAY 46 *
Elle is in her push-up bikini, reclining in her beach chair,
pink frozen margarita in one hand, Underdog in the other, law
book in her lap, pretending to study.
We PULL BACK to reveal that she's sitting on the sidelines of
a touch-football game that Warner is playing with a group of
other 1-L's.
Warner scores easily because the other male eyes are all on
Elle. He shakes his head and smiles.
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 41.
47 INT. CRIMINAL LAW CLASS - DAY 47
Elle sits, glaring at Sarah, who keeps waving her "The Rock"
in Elle's direction, as she plays footsie with Warner.
PROFESSOR DONOVAN — 40s, a big fan of himself, salt and
pepper hair, no time for bullshit — stands before the class.
PROFESSOR DONOVAN
I should warn you that in addition to
competing against each other for the top
grade in this class, you'll also be
competing for one of my firm's highly
coveted four internship spots next year
where you will get to assist on actual
cases. Let the bloodbath begin. Now,
let's commence with our usual torture —
He looks around.
PROFESSOR DONOVAN (CONT'D)
(continuing)
Ms. Woods —
Sarah and her bitchy, clone-like friend CLAIRE exchange
knowing glances.
SARAH
This should be amusing.
• PROFESSOR DONOVAN
Would you rather have a client who
committed a crime malum in se or malum
prohibitum?
ELLE
Neither.
PROFESSOR DONOVAN
Why not?
ELLE
I'd rather have a client who's innocent.
Elle smiles, proud of her answer. The class snickers. Warner
frowns.
PROFESSOR DONOVAN
. Dare to dream, Ms. Woods. Ms.
Knottingham? Which would you prefer?
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 42.
47 CONTINUED: 47
SARAH
Malum prohibitum. Because the client
would've committed a regulatory
infraction as opposed to a dangerous
crime.
Elle raises her hand.
PROFESSOR DONOVAN
Yes? Ms. Woods?
' ELLE ' . .
I changed my mind. I ' d pick the
dangerous one.
She looks pointedly at Sarah.
ELLE (CONT''D)
(continuing)
I ' m not afraid of a challenge.
Sarah glares back at her. Warner looks between the two of *
them, worried. • *
Ratings
Scene 16 - Elle's Failed Attempt to Join Warner's Study Group
The Harvard Public Interest Law Association meeting is *
O underway. Warner .listens intently, A few seats away, Elle
appears to be taking notes.
CLOSE ON—her "notes" — "I'm free for dinner tonight. Meet
me at The Cask & Flagon at 8." *
She folds the note and sticks it in Underdog's mouth, then points
him toward Warner. Humiliated but dutiful, Underdog bounds off.
CLOSE ON — Underdog, as he carries forth his mission,
arriving at Warner's feet. UNDERDOG'S POV — Warner
discreetly takes the note from him, then looks over at Elle,
who feigns interest in the meeting.
4 9 INT. CASK & FLAGON RESTAURANT - NIGHT 49 *
Elle waits for Warner, alone at a table. Checking her watch
to see it's 8:45, she tries not to be sad.
50 INT. HARVARD LAW LIBRARY - DAY 50 *
Warner and his study group, Sarah and Claire included, sit at
a table, going over their outlines. Elle walks up to the
table, holding a basket of muffins, bright smile on her face.
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 43.
50 CONTINUED: 50
ELLE
' I ' m here to join your study group. And
look! I brought sustenance!
She holds up the muffins as the others look up, frowns all
around.
WARNER
(nervously looking at Sarah)
Elle, what're you doing here?
Elle pulls up a chair from another table and holds up a
muffin. '
ELLE
Who's first?
She sits down next to Warner.
SARAH
Our group is full.
ELLE
Oh, God, was this like an RSVP thing?
CLAIRE
No, it's like a smart people thing. And
like Sarah said, we're full.
WARNER
Come on ~ we can make room for one more.
Sarah looks at Warner with evil eyes.
SARAH
We've already assigned the outlines, and
everyone has started theirs',
CLAIRE
(to Warner)
Besides, you wouldn't let the fat guy
_ join.
WARNER
He tried to watch me take'a shower!
Sarah looks at Elle.
SARAH
The answer is no.
Warner looks at her, feeling guilty. He shrugs an "I'm
sorry", but Elle's perkiness has gone.
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 44.
50 CONTINUED: (2) 50
She gathers up her muffins and stands, clutching the basket
to her chest as she goes.
ELLE
Then I guess I'll leave you alone.
She walks away, completely deflated, passing by the RAGING
FEMINIST STUDY GROUP. Enid calls out.
ENID
Maybe there's a sorority you could join
instead.
Elle stops and looks at her.
ELLE
(to Enid)
You know, if you'd come to a Rush party,
I would've at least been nice to you.
ENID
Before you voted against me and called me
a dyke behind my back?
ELLE
I don't use that word. Only mean people
use that word. You must've heard it from
Sarah. .
She looks back at Warner's table and walks off. As she does.,
she's nearly mowed down by a gaggle of NERDS led by DORKY *
DAVID, who knock the muffins out of her hands. She stands *
there, even more depressed.
Ratings
Scene 17 - Elle's Night of Exclusion and Rejection
Elle sinks down onto her bed, deflated. She picks up the
phone and dials.
52 INT. BRIDAL SHOP - DAY 52
Serena, with a new hairdo, and Margot are surrounded by
wedding dresses. Margot talks on her cell phone. We *
INTERCUT.
MARGOT
(to Serena)
It's Elle!
(into phone)
Guess what I ' m doing right this second?
ELLE
Power yoga?
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 45.
52 CONTINUED: 52
MARGOT
Picking out my wedding dress!
ELLE
• What?!
MARGOT
Josh proposed!
ELLE
(startled)
No way —
Serena grabs the phone.
SERENA
(into phone)
;;po you have The Rock yet?
Elle lies.
ELLE
Almost.
SERENA
Well, hurry up so you can come home! We
miss you!
ELLE
I miss you guys! The people here are so
vile! Hardly anyone even talks to me
unless it's to say something that's not
nice. Law school sucks!
SERENA
Oh, my God! I completely forgot to tell
you!
ELLE
What?
SERENA
I got bangs!
ELLE
(hurt and annoyed)
Really —
Margot grabs the phone back.
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 46.
52 CONTINUED: (2) 52
MARGOT :
(into phone)
Keep June first open — you're one of my
bridesmaids. And give Warner our love.
ELLE
Iwill.. . .
Margot hangs up and Elle follows suit. Even more deflated.
53 INT. ELLE'S DORM - HALLWAY - DAY - SAME TIME 53 *
Sarah and Claire walk past Elle's room, the door of which is
ajar.
SARAH
It's not just any Halloween party. It's a
"Come as Your Favorite Defendant" party.
CLAIRE
That-'s genius.
Elle pops her head out of the room.
ELLE
(excited)
No way! Someone at this school is
actually having a party?
Sarah and Claire turn around. Elle's face falls when she
sees that it's them.
SARAH
No.
CLAIRE
You must've heard us wrong.
SARAH
Sorry. Looks like you'll be staying home
tonight. Alone.
They continue on as Elle goes back into her room, snubbed.
54 INT. ELLE'S DORM ROOM - CONTINUOUS 54 *
Elle shuts the door behind her and looks at Underdog.
ELLE
I can't believe this. Not only do I not *
have Warner, but I ' m —unpopular! *
The realization hits her hard. Underdog barks. She looks at him.*
• . ' . • • •
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 47.
54 CONTINUED: 54
ELLE (CONT'D)
(continuing)
But I wasn't invited.
He barks again.
ELLE (CONT'D)
(continuing)
You really think I should?
55 EXT. OFF-CAMPUS HOUSE - PORCH - NIGHT 55
Two feet in high heels and fishnet hose stride purposefully
up the sidewalk. .
A perfect butt wearing a bunny tail wiggles up the steps.
56 INT. OFF-CAMPUS HOUSE - NIGHT 56
A party filled with people who are no fun to party with.
NAMETAGS denote which famous defendant everyone is dressed as.
Menenedez's, Tonya Harding's, and Buttafuco's pepper the room.
Elle, decked out in a Playboy Bunny costume — looking sexy
as hell — strides in. People roll their eyes and ignore
her. Elle continues on.
NEARBY — Enid, dressed as Lizzie Borden, axe in hand/ is in
the midst of a tirade against some guy dressed like William
Kennedy Smith.
ENID
The English language is all about subliminal
domination. Take the word "semester". It's a
perfect example of this school's
discriminatory preference of semen to
ovaries. That's why I ' m petitioning to have
next term be referred to as Winter Ovester.
The guy backs up in fright. As Elle passes, Enid looks over.
ENID (CONT'D)
(continuing)
Hey, Elle— I've been meaning to ask you
(re her boobs)
— are those real?
Elle snorts.
ELLE
Enid, please — silicone is so 90's.
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 48.
56 CONTINUED: 56
She keeps walking.
Ratings
Scene 18 - Elle's Costume and Warner's Doubts
Sarah — dressed as Hester Prynne — and Claire —as Joan of
Arc -- sip wine.
ELLE
(continuing; sarcastic)
Thanks for inviting me, girls. This party
is super fun.
They roll their eyes, checking out her Bunny costume.
SARAH
You're supposed to be dressed as a famous
defendant.
Elle smiles at Sarah.
ELLE
I am. Didn't you hear about the Playboy
Bunny who slit her ex- boyfriend's new
fiancee's throat with a broken wine
glass? It was tragic.
She grabs a glass of wine and moves on.
58 EXT. OFF-CAMPUS HOUSE - BACK PORCH - NIGHT 58
Elle walks onto the back porch and finds Warner —dressed as
O.J. in a USC football uniform, number 32, with a ball and
chain on his foot.
ELLE
Hey, O.J.
Warner turns. He looks around for Sarah. Not seeing her, he
smiles at Elle, admiring her costume.
WARNER
Wow. You're a walking felony.
ELLE
Thank you. Having fun?
WARNER
(checking her out)
Now I am.
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 49.
58 CONTINUED: 58
ELLE
(flirty)
I feel like we've barely spent any time
together since we got here.
WARNER
That's because I spend all my time with
case studies and hypos.
ELLE
Tell me about it. I can't imagine doing
all this and Donovan's internship next
year.
WARNER
(scoffing)
Elle, c'mon, there's no way you'll get
the grades to qualify for one of those
spots. You're not smart enough.
She can't believe he's saying this. He realizes he's gone
too far, and back-pedals.
WARNER (CONT'D)
(continuing)
I didn't mean —
ELLE
(cutting him off)
Am I on glue, or did I not get into the
same law school you did, Warner?
WARNER
(covering)
Well, yeah, but —
ELLE
But what? We took the same LSAT, we take
the same classes —
WARNER
I just don't want to see you get your
hopes up. You know how you get.
She stares at him. Realizing the awful truth.
ELLE
I'11 never be good enough for you, will
I?
When he doesn't answer, she walks back into the house.
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 50.
Ratings
Scene 19 - Elle's Determination: Overcoming Doubts and Proving Worth
A group of tipsy ILs stand around. One of them holds a salad
bowl filled with cash.
ENID
I give her two more weeks.
She throws a twenty into the bowl. ' •. .
DORKY DAVID
Two and a half?
He throws in his twenty as well.
SARAH
If she spreads her legs, maybe —
ARROGANT AARON
(adjusting his crotch)
Only if I ' m feeling generous.
ELLE (O.S.)
What is this?
They turn around to find Elle standing there.
CLAIRE
We're betting on how much longer you're
going to last.
ELLE
(stung)
What?
SARAH
Look around, Elle. Do you actually think
you belong here?
They all stare at her.
ELLE
(hurt)
Why wouldn't I?
ENID
Because the rest of us provide some
worthwhile value to society?
ARROGANT AARON
Hold on, now — every society needs a
bimbo. Who are we supposed to sleep with
after we get rich?
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 51.
59 CONTINUED: 59
Elle looks like she's been slapped. The others laugh at
Aaron's esteemed wit.
ELLE
You know what? All of you can just kiss
my ass.
She yanks off her Bunny tail and throws it at them. Hurt and
anger in her eyes. Then walks out of the room.
' ELLE (CONT'D)
(continuing; to herself)
You're about to see just how valuable
Elle Woods can be.
She stomps out of the house.
A GIRL-POWER SONG STARTS TO PLAY AS A MONTAGE BEGINS:
60 INT. HARVARD BOOKSTORE - NIGHT 60
A hot pink laptop is yanked off the shelf.
CUT TO:
Elle, still in her Bunny suit, minus the tail, stands in
line, paying for the laptop. People gape at her, but she's
oblivious in her resolve.
EMMETT walks up behind her in line. He clears his throat,
trying not to look at her costume.
Elle turns, seeing him.
ELLE
Don't ask.
EMMETT
Wasn't gonna. -
She marches off. Laptop in hand.
61 INT. ELLE'S DORM ROOM - NIGHT 61
A pony-tailed Elle types a brief, coffee next to her.
Underdog sleeps nearby, belly-up. Legs twitching in a
nightmare. Typing furiously, Elle breaks a nail, then
struggles to forge on, despite her instinct to stop and
repair it.
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 52.
62 INT. LAW LIBRARY - DAY 62
Elle — arms full of books — walks past the Warner/Sarah
study group. Sarah and Claire scowl at her, but Elle passes
with her head held high.
63 INT. STUDY LOUNGE - DAY 63
Enid is surrounded by study materials and notecards. When
she gets up to use the ladies' room, Elle casually walks over
and slips a notecard into the middle of Enid's stack. Then
quickly walks on. '
64 INT. BEAUTY OASIS - DAY 64 *
Paulette quizzes Elle from a law textbook as her nails dry. *
As she waits for Elle's answer, Paulette showers Underdog *
with kisses, showing him pictures of Rufus. *
65 INT. CRIMINAL LAW CLASS - DAY .. 65
Donovan is in the midst of a lecture. He points at Elle.
PROFESSOR DONOVAN
And the purpose of "diminished capacity"
is?
She swallows nervously, then speaks.
ELLE
To negate mens rea?
Donovan nods affirmatively and continues. Elle hides a
smile.
Ratings
Scene 20 - Elle's Playful Prank on Arrogant Aaron
Elle reaches for a book on a high shelf, but she's not tall
enough. She tries a running start and leaps for it. Still
missing it. *
FROM THE LEFT, she runs and leaps again, missing again. *
FROM THE RIGHT, she runs and leaps again, missing again. *
Dorky David walks up and sets down a step-stool at her: feet.
Now winded, she smiles her thanks, stepping up to retrieve *
her book. *
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 53.
67 INT. STUDY LOUNGE - DAY 67
Enid flips through her notecards, memorizing, when she comes
upon a picture of a NAKED MAN. Oh, the horror. She throws it
down in disgust as if her eyes have been burned.
Looking around, Enid sees Elle smiling and waving at her from *
across the room. *
68 INT. LAW LIBRARY - DAY 68
Elle walks past Arrogant Aaron, as he sleeps at his study
cubicle, head back on the chair.
She stops, backs up, and waves her hand over his face. When
he doesn't stir, she takes a magic marker out of her knapsack
and leans over to write something on his forehead. *
69 INT. ELLE1S DORM ROOM - DAY 69 *
Elle works out on her Elliptical Crosstrainer as she listens
to a lecture tape and watches Court TV on mute.
LECTURER (V.O.)
"A failure to act can constitute the actus reus for
accomplice liability if the defendant has the legal duty to
intervene, but fails to do so."
70 INT. LAW LIBRARY - DAY 70>
Arrogant Aaron wakes up with a start, checks his watch, and
rushes off to class. Oblivious to his facial graffiti, which
we can't yet read.
71 INT. CIVIL PROCEDURES CLASS - DAY 71
Professor Stromwell is in front of the class.
PROFESSOR STROMWELL
So you've filed a claim. Now what?
She looks over to see Elle sitting there, typing on her
laptop.
PROFESSOR STROMWELL (CONT'D)
(continuing)
Ms. Woods?
ELLE
Don't you also need to have evidence?
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 54.
71 CONTINUED: 71
PROFESSOR STROMWELL
Meaning?
Everyone now stares at Elle.
'ELLE
Meaning you need — reasonable belief
that your claim would have, like,
evidentiary support?
Stromwell is somewhat impressed, but doesn't show it.
PROFESSOR STROMWELL
And what kind of evidentiary support does
this case require? Let's ask Mr.
Harriman, who clearly believes that I
might be hungry.
She looks up at Arrogant Aaron in the back row. Who
unknowingly has "Eat Me" written on his forehead. He looks
back at her, confused, as the students around him snicker.
Ratings
Scene 21 - Elle's Legal Victory: Challenging Sperm Donor Rights
A "Closed" sign is on the door.
THROUGH THE WINDOW, we see Elle and Paulette sitting in the
empty salon, laughing and clinking cans of Pabst Blue Ribbon
as they toast Elle's small victory. We PULL BACK, leaving
them laughing, as the MONTAGE ENDS.
73 INT. CRIMINAL LAW CLASS - DAY 73
"THE STATE V. LATIMER" is written on the board. A pony-
tailed, less made-up Elle takes notes on her lap-top, as
Warner makes an argument.
WARNER
. According to Swinney v. Neubert, Swinney,
who was also a private sperm donor, was
allowed visitation rights as long as he
came to terms with the hours set forth by
the parents. So, if we're sticking to
past precedent, Mr. Latimer wasn't
stalking— he was clearly within his
rights to ask for visitation.
PROFESSOR DONQVAN
But Swinney was a one-time sperm donor,
and in our case, the defendant was a
habitual sperm donor, who also happens to
be harassing the parents in his quest for
visitation.
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 55.
73 CONTINUED: "73
WARNER
But, without this man's sperm —the
child in question would not exist.
He grins and looks around as the class murmurs their
agreement.
PROFESSOR DONOVAN
Now you're thinking like a lawyer.
EMMETT enters from the back, holding a file. He stands there
quietly, watching. •
Elle tentatively raises her hand.
PROFESSOR DONOVAN (CONT'D)
Ms. Woods?
Sarah looks at Claire.
SARAH
(sotto)
The idiot speaks.
ELLE
Although Mr. Huntington makes an
excellent point, I have to wonder if the *
defendant kept a thorough record of each *
sperm emission made throughout his life?
The class titters. Elle grows annoyed.
PROFESSOR DONOVAN
(bemused)
Why do you ask?
Elle's hesitancy is replaced by conviction.
ELLE
Well, unless the defendant attempted to *
contact every single one-night- stand to
determine if a child resulted in those
unions — then he has no parental claim
whatsoever over this child. Why this
sperm? Why now? '
Emmett's mouth twitches into a smile.
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 56.
73 CONTINUED: (2) 73
ELLE (CONT'D)
(continuing)
For that matter, all masturbatory
emissions where his sperm was clearly not
seeking an egg could be termed reckless
abandonment.
Warner's mouth hangs open. As does Sarah's and the rest of
the class. Donovan smiles.
PROFESSOR DONOVAN
I believe you've just won your case.
Elle grins. :
Ratings
Scene 22 - Elle's Empowerment: Impressing Professors and Encouraging Friends
As the students file out, Elle passes Donovan.
PROFESSOR DONOVAN
You did well today.
She stops.
ELLE
I did?
PROFESSOR DONOVAN
You're applying for my internship, aren't
you?
ELLE
I don ' t know —
PROFESSOR DONOVAN
You should. Do you have a resume?
ELLE
(excited)
" ••'.' . • •. . . i do. ' ' , .''. •' . . • ; . .
She pulls a resume out of her briefcase and hands it to him..
He looks at it. •
PROFESSOR DONOVAN
It's pink.
ELLE
And engraved... Gives it that extra
little something, doesn't it? .
(smiling)
See you tomorrow!
(CONTINUED)
.9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 57.
74 CONTINUED: 74
She walks on. Emmett walks up, handing the file to Donovan.
EMMETT
I brought you the Windham notes. *
PROFESSOR DONOVAN
(watching Elle go)
You think she just woke up one morning
and said, "I think I'll go to law school
today!"?
Eitimett looks after Elle, bemused.
EMMETT
Aside from that lapse in judgement —
she's got potential.
75 INT. ELLE'S CAR-DAY 75 *
Elle drives. Paulette is shotgun. • *
PAULETTE
You showed up Warner in class? You're
supposed to be showing up Sarah.
ELLE
I couldn't help it! It was the most fun
I've had since I've been in law school.
Not only was I good enough for Warner —
I was better than him. He has to see
serious I am now. Even Donovan was
impressed, and he's a total hard- ass.
Elle stops the car and turns off the ignition. *
ELLE (CONT'D) *
You ready? *
PAULETTE •. *
No. '•*
ELLE *
Yes, you are. Go — you can do this. . *
She points ahead of them. Paulette goes. *
76 EXT. DEWEY'S TRAILER - DAY . 76 *
The door opens. DEWEY(40s) and his beer gut emerge. *
Paulette is on the porch. Trying to exude confidence, but *
failing. *
(CONTINUED)
9/172000 Revision (Blue) 58.
16 CONTINUED: 76
DEWEY *
(to Paulette) *
What the hell do yon want? We're eating *
dinner. *
PAULETTE *
I just — *
DEWEY *
You just thought you'd come over and show *
me what I 'm definitely not missing? *
Ratings
Scene 23 - Elle Woods Secures Rufus's Return for Paulette
She watches, frowning. *
78 EXT. DEWEY 'S TRAILER - DAY -CONTINUOUS 78 *'
Dewey's really having fun now. *
; DEWEY ; *
What the hell happened to you? You get a *
job at a donut shop? *
• PAULETTE *
That's not what — *
DEWEY *
How many times you gonna show up here, *
beggin1 me to take you back? ' *
Paulette reddens — flustered and humiliated. Elle appears *
next to her. *
ELLE *
Dewey Newcomb? *
DEWEY *
Who's askin' *
ELLE *
. I ' m Elle Woods. Ms. Bonaf ante's • . *
attorney. *
Paulette looks at Elle in surprise, Elle keeps going. *
*
ELLE (CONT'D) *
Under state law, you and Ms. Bonaf ante *
had a common law marriage which entitles *
her to the benefits of property law and *
an equitable division of assets. *
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 59.
78 CONTINUED: "78
Paulette watches Elle, mouth hanging open. *
DEWEY
(confused) *
Come again? *
ELLE *
Due to the fact that you retained the *
residence, Ms. Bonafante is entitled to *
full ownership of the canine property in *
question and we will be enforcing said *
ownership immediately. *
DEWEY : *
Huh? *
ELLE *•
Tell him, Paulette. *
A still-stunned Paulette looks at Elle, then turns to Dewey, *
fire in her ass. '•.." *
PAULETTE •*
I ' m taking the dog dumbass. *
(calling into the trailer) *
C'mere, baby, Mommy's here! *
Rufus bounds out, licking and kissing Paulette. The love *
evident. *
Ratings
Scene 24 - Elle's Surprising Internship Offer
Elle, Paulette and Rufus get in. *
ELLE *
We did it! . *
Elle high-fives her. *
PAULETTE *
God, that felt great! *
ELLE • *
Look at him. He's still scratching his *
head. *
PAULETTE . *
Which must be a nice vacation for his *
balls. . . *
She turns to Rufus, hugging him. *
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 60.
79 CONTINUED: 79
PAULETTE (CONT'D) *
And now Mommy's got somebody to eat *
dinner with again. You don't care what *
Mommy's butt looks like, do you? *
Elle looks over at Paulette, heart going out to her. *
80 INT. CIVIL PROCEDURES CLASS - DAY 80
Elle turns on her Powerbook as Professor Stromwell faces the
class with her morning quote.
PROFESSOR STROMWELL
"An image and a good hook can get you
into a room —• but something has to keep
you in that room."
She looks around as hands are raised.
PROFESSOR STROMWELL (CONT'D)
(continuing)
Mr. Greenstein?
INTENSE IVAN
Judge Sandra Day 0'Connor?
PROFESSOR STROMWELL
Close.. . .
Intense Ivan's face falls. She looks around, seeing Elle
raising her hand.
PROFESSOR STROMWELL (CONT'D)
(continuing) -
Ms. Woods?
ELLE
Madonna?
The class rolls their eyes and laughs, watching Stromwell.
PROFESSOR STROMWELL
Damn. Thought I ' d get everyone on that
one.
The class can't believe Elle is right.
81 EXT. CRIMINAL LAW CLASS - HALLWAY - DAY 81
A THRONG of buzzing students is gathered around the bulletin
board. Elle walks up.
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 61.
81 CONTINUED: 81
ELLE
What's going on?
DORKY DAVID
Donovan's firm is defending a major
murder case and his caseload is so heavy
he's taking on first year interns.
ELLE
He chose them already?
Sarah, at the front of the throng, gasps, then turns to
Warner.
SARAH
We got it!
He grins and she kisses him on the cheek. Elle, shoved to
the back, tries to get closer, when she hears —
ENID
The competition must not have been that
' • stiff. •
Arrogant Aaron pushes his way to the board. .*
ARROGANT AARON
Why? ion .got a spot? *
ENID *
Hey! Watch your hands, Mr.Grabass. *
ARROGANT AARON '*
(ignoring her) *
That only leaves one for — *
Elle, now next to him, gets a look at the board.
ELLE
(shocked)
Me?!
Everyone REACTS. She turns and faces the throng. They stare
back at her in shock. *
Dignified, she walks through them as they PART for her, *
stopping in front of Warner and Sarah. *
ELLE (CONT'D)
(continuing; to Warner) • *
Remember the time after Winter Formal? *
When we spent four incredible hours In *
the hot tub...? *
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 62.
81 CONTINUED: (2) 81
Sarah looks away. . • *
ELLE (CONT'D) *
This is way better than that. *
(pushing Sarah aside) *
Excuse me. I have some shopping to do. *
As she goes, surprised CHATTER overtakes the hallway.
Ratings
Scene 25 - Elle's New Beginning: A Case of Innocence
Elle scans the racks of conservative clothes. She holds up a
cashmere twinset and wrinkles her nose, but throws it over
her arm anyway.
83 INT. NORDSTROM'S - HANDBAGS - DAY - LATER 83
Elle admires a trendy handbag, but then promptly sets it down
and picks up a practical leather briefcase.
84 INT. AUSTEN, PLATT, JARET & DONOVAN - LOBBY - DAY 84
The elevator door opens and Warner and Elle emerge. Elle is
sporting her new, boring "lawyer" clothes. Warner is baffled
and impressed by her transformation.
WARNER
You look — nice.
ELLE
Thank you.
She gives him an aloof smile and walks off. Warner watches her
go. Sarah stands in the lobby. None too happy to witness this.
85 INT. AUSTEN, PLATT, JARET & DONOVAN - DAY - MOMENTS LATER 85
Donovan strides through the office, his four interns behind
him. He points as he walks.
DONOVAN
There's your office, there's the
bathroom, there's the coffee machine.
There's Gerard, Dick and1Bobby.
GERARD, smarmy and trim, DICK, short and bald, and BOBBY,
black and bespectacled, wave as the interns pass by.
DONOVAN (CONT'D)
(continuing)
They're the other associates on the case.
Ask them all your stupid questions, save
the smart ones for me.
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 63.
86 INT. AUSTEN, JARET, PLATT AND DONOVAN - CONFERENCE ROOM 86
Professor Donovan opens his briefcase as Elle, Sarah, Enid
and Warner hang on his every word.
PROFESSOR DONOVAN
We're defending Brooke Windham, whose
very wealthy husband was found shot to
death in their Beacon Hill mansion.
SARAH
Gold digger?
PROFESSOR DONOVAN
You'd think so, since the stiff was
sixty, but she was rich on her own. Some
kind of fitness empire. You can buy her
exercise tapes on infomercials.
Elle frowns.
ELLE
Wait a minute — are we talking about
Brooke Daniels?
Donovan checks his papers.
PROFESSOR DONOVAN
Maiden name—Daniels.
(looking up)
You know her?
ELLE
She was a Delta Gamma! Not in my pledge
class or anything — she graduated ,five
years ahead of me. But I used to take her
class at the LA Sports Club. She's
amazing!
The others looks at each other and roll their eyes.
PROFESSOR DONOVAN
Amazing how?
ELLE
She could make you drop three pounds in
one class. She's completely gifted!
PROFESSOR DONOVAN
Well, in all likelihood, she's completely
guilty as well. She was seen standing
over her husband's dead body.
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) .64 .
86 CONTINUED: 86
WARNER
By who?
SARAH
(correcting him)
Whom?
PROFESSOR DONOVAN
His twenty-seven year old daughter and
the pool boy.
ELLE
Maybe she found him like that.
PROFESSOR DONOVAN
That's the story she'll be telling the
jury. We just have to prove it.
Emmett walks in and sits.
EMMETT
Sorry I ' m late.
Elle looks at him, confused.
PROFESSOR DONOVAN
This is Emmett Kerrigan, another associate. *
Top three in his class and former editor of
Harvard Law Review. You've probably seen *
him lurking around campus doing my research.
EMMETT *
Or napping on the quad. . *
Elle smiles at him. He smiles back. Almost shy.
WARNER
(to Donovan)
What about the murder weapon?
PROFESSOR DONOVAN
The gun is missing. The coroner said
he'd been dead thirty minutes dead when
the cops arrived — giving Brooke plenty
of time to stash it.
ELLE
There's no way Brooke could've done this -
- exercise gives you endorphins,
endorphins make you happy — happy people
don't kill their husbands!
Sarah and Enid snort.
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 65.
86 CONTINUED: (2) 86
PROFESSOR DONOVAN
You don't really believe she's innocent?
ELLE
Of course, I do!
Emmett looks at her.
EMMETT
Then we may actually have a case.
He looks over at Donovan, who's not so sure.
Ratings
Scene 26 - Tense Jail Interview and Unexpected Connection
Grey and imposing.
88 INT. BOSTON JAIL - DAY 88
Donovan sits at a long table, next to BROOKE, a pretty 26-
.year-old blonde with a perfect body and a sad face. The
interns and associates sit at the far end of the table taking
notes. A cop stands guard at the door.
DONOVAN
What alibi?
' • . . '
BROOKE
I can't tell you.
' DONOVAN
You understand you're on trial for
murder ?
BROOKE
I didn't do it! I walked in, saw my
husband lying on the floor, bent down to
check his heart, screamed my head off and
Chutney and Enrique ran inside.
DONOVAN
Where they saw you standing over the body
covered in his blood.
She glares at him.
BROOKE
Why would I kill my husband?
DONOVAN
Insurance? A love affair? Pure
unadulterated hatred? Believe me, the DA
will come up with plenty of reasons.
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 66.
88 CONTINUED: 8E
BROOKE
I l ov ed h im !
DONOVAN
He was thirty-four years older than you.
That doesn't sound so good to a jury.
Now she's pissed.
BROOKE
Then show them a picture of his cock.
They might put a few things together.
Everyone stiffens except for Ell.e, who laughs out loud.
DONOVAN , .
Brooke, I believe you. But a jury is
gonna want an alibi.
BROOKE
I can't give you that. And if you put me
on the stand, I'll lie.
Donovan takes a moment to look at her like she's an idiot.
DONOVAN
Were you with another man?
BROOKE
Go to hell.
DONOVAN
I'll take that as a no.
BROOKE
Are we done for today?
DONOVAN
I believe we are.
He stands. As do his minions. As they file out, Brooke sees
Elle.
BROOKE
Hey — I know you.
Elle perks up.
ELLE
I ' m a Delta Gamma and I ' m a huge fan of
yours!
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) .67.
88 CONTINUED: (2) 8£
BROOKE
You took my class in LA. You had the
best high kick I've ever seen. Are you
one of my lawyers?
ELLE
Sort of.
Brooke looks at Elle as if she's her savior.
BROOKE
Well, thank God one of you has a brain.
Ratings
Scene 27 - Elle Teaches the 'Bend & Snap'
Rufus sleeps happily on the floor. Elle sits in front of . ' *
Paulette, nails in the soapy water.
ELLE
I feel so bad for her. I mean, she's in
jail! And she's innocent. But I ' m the
only one who believes her. Donovan
totally thinks she's guilty.
. PAULETTE
That's because men are big, fat retards
who don't — Oh, my God... *
ON THE DOOR
The UPS GUY stands in the doorway with a package, sun *
streaming in around him. *
UPS GUY
Afternoon, ladies.
ON ELLE AND PAULETTE *
PAULETTE *
It's him! *
Paulette smooths down her hair. *
ELLE ' *
It's who? *
She turns to look as we go to — *
BUTT-CAM — CLOSE ON the crisp brown shorts of a regulation *
UPS uniform, as they stretch across the taut, muscular *
buttocks of UPS GUY, as he strides through the shop. *
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 68.
89 CONTINUED: 89
When the butt stops moving, we WIDEN to reveal the UPS Guy *
now standing in front of Elle and Paulette. *
UPS GUY *
I've got a package. *
Elle turns to Paulette, eyes wide. *
ELLE *
(agreeing) *
He's got a package. • *
Paulette is frozen. Blushing and nervous. *
UPS GUY *
How ya doin' today? . *
PAULETTE . •*
Fine? *
He waits for her to sign. She remains frozen. Elle takes *
the pen and signs for her, trying to help. .*
UPS Guy smiles kindly at Paulette and heads out. *
UPS GUY .*
Take it easy. *•
Paulette watches him go, hand over her heart. Elle looks at *
her, concerned. , *
ELLE
So, this is the only interaction you two *
have ever had?
PAULETTE
No. Sometimes I say "Okay" instead of
"Fine".
ELLE
Have you ever considered asking him if
he'd like a cold beverage? Or perhaps a
neck massage?
• ' . ' • • . ' ' *
PAULETTE
What's the point?
(matter of factly)
Look at me.
ELLE
I am. And I'm looking at a beautiful,
fabulous, sexy woman.
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) • . 6 9.
89 CONTINUED: (2) 89
Paulette snorts. *
PAULETTE *
Good one. *
ELLE *
Trust'me. You've got the equipment, you *
just need to read the manual. *
Elle stands. , *
ELLE (CONT'D) *
I ' m going to.show you a little maneuver
my mother taught me when I was in junior
high. In my experience, it has a 98%
success rate in getting a man's attention
and when used appropriately—an 83% *
rate of return on a dinner invitation.
The HAIRSTYLISTS and CLIENTS listen, intrigued. .*
ELLE (CONT'D) *
(continuing)
It's called the "Bend & Snap".
(acting)
"Oh, look! There's something on the
floor that I need to pick up!" Bend... *
She slowly BENDS down, as if to pick up something, sticking *
out her tush, knee cocked. She slids her hand down her *
cocked leg until her hand touches the floor and she SNAPS *
back up, boobs a'bouncing.
ELLE (CONT'D)
(continuing)
And snap! Now you try.
Paulette stands up repeating the maneuver. *
PAULETTE
Bend...and snap!
It 's a spastic version of what Elle just did. *
ELLE
Good. Now this time, put a little arch in
your back and maybe get your footing more *
solid.
Paulette does it again. This time, getting it right. *
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 70.
89 CONTINUED: ( 3 ) 89
ELLE (CONT'D)
(continuing)
Perfect!
A HAIR CLIENT walks over, head full of curlers. *
HAIR CLIENT *
Like this? . *
She tries. *
ELLE *
Good. *
She adjusts her like a yoga instructor would. *
ELLE (CONT'D) *
But cock that knee. *
ANOTHER CLIENT calls over. *
ANOTHER CLIENT *
Am I doing it right? *
Elle walks over to her. *
ELLE *
More snap, less bend. *
She turns to the rest of the clients. *
ELLE (CONT'D) *
C'mon — everyone try! *
Clients hop up out of their chairs as someone reaches over *
and cranks the transistor radio, blaring "BRICK HOUSE" by the *
Commodores. *
All the clients and technicians, no matter what their age, or *
how many foils are in there hair, are up and doing the "Bend *
& Snap", repeating the mantra as they do.
Elle walks around them, continuing to adjust them. *
ELLE (CONT'D) *
Now everyone together. *
They all bend in unison — going down on "Brick" — *
EVERYONE
Bend —
And snapping back up — on "House" . *
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) . 7 1 .
89 CONTINUED: ( 4 ) 89
EVERYONE (CONT'D) *
(continuing)
And snap !
The frivolity continues as the roomful of ladies perfect the *
maneuver . . *
MAURICE, a male hair-dresser, comes out of the back room, *
mixing a bowl of bleach as he walks. He stops when he spots *
the activity. . *
MAURICE *
Oh, my God! The Bend & Snap! *
(to an old lady) *
Works every time... *
Ratings
Scene 28 - Differing Accounts and a Jailhouse Visit
CHUTNEY, 27, curly-haired and bitter, sits in front of *
Donovan, the FEMALE DA, the associates, the interns and a
court .reporter, as she's interviewed.
CHUTNEY
I got out of the shower," walked
downstairs, saw her standing over my
father, and called the police.
DONOVAN
Did she have a weapon in her hand?
CHUTNEY
No.
DONOVAN
Was there any reason for you to believe
she had discarded a weapon?
CHUTNEY
Uh, yeah, because the bitch shot him.
DONOVAN
Was there any evidence that Mrs . Windham
shot him?
CHUTNEY
(duh)
His dead body with a bullet in it. .
91 INT. AUSTEN, PLATT, JARET & DONOVAN-CONFERENCE ROOM-LATER 91
ENRIQUE, 25, Latino and hunky as hell, sits in the seat that
Chutney has vacated.
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 72.
91 aONTINUED: 91
DONOVAN
What did you see when you entered the
house?
ENRIQUE
I saw Mrs. Windham standing over the body
of Mr. Windham.
DONOVAN
Was she carrying a weapon?
• ENRIQUE
No, she was crying her eyes out.
Donovan smiles.
DONOVAN
So she was distraught that her husband
was dead?
ENRIQUE
Oh, yes. Mrs. Windham is the most sweet,
wonderful woman I know. I have loved her
since the day she hired me. She could
never do something this awful. I know
this because we are very close.
The others shift uncomfortably, then look at each other. Then.,
back at Enrique and his shiny, unbuttoned-to-show-his-pecs
shirt. The DA smiles.
92 INT. STEAKHOUSE - NIGHT .9.2
Donovan, the interns, and associates sit at a large table.
GERARD
She's screwing the pool boy.
Elle gasps and makes a face.
ELLE
There is no way a Delta Gamma would sleep
with a man in a shiny shirt. Warner,
back me up here.
Warner shrugs, embarrassed. Sarah looks at Donovan.
SARAH
I hate to agree ~ but I don't see the
two of them actually —
(wrinkling her nose)
— doing it.
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 73.
92 CONTINUED: 92
ENID
Women like that will screw anything.
ELLE
So, because she's beautiful and has a good *
body, she's easy? What book of feminist *
theory did you read iiiai in, Enid? *
Emmett jumps in before war breaks out. *
EMMETT
Okay, if Brooke didn't kill the guy, who did?
ELLE
My money's on the angry daughter or the
ex-wife.
DONOVAN
Chutney has a trust fund. She didn't
need the insurance payoff or the
inheritance.
BOBBY
What about her mother?
DONOVAN
Covered. She was in Aspen at the time.
Ten people saw her downing cosmopolitans
at the Caribou Club.
ELLE
All I know is— it's not Brooke.
DONOVAN
That's touching, Elle, but we need an
alibi.
Elle thinks about this.
93 INT. BOSTON JAIL - LOBBY - DAY ' 93 *
A—nervous Elle stands in front of the burly CHECK-IN GUARD..
She holds a basket of goodies.
ELLE
I ' m here to see Brooke Wi'ndham.
GUARD
Licensed attorney or family member?
ELLE
Uh — family.
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 74.
93 CONTINUED: 93
GUARD
Relation?
ELLE
I ' m her sister.
GUARD
Name?
ELLE
Delta. Gamma.
He makes a note and buzzes her in. '
94 INT. BOSTON JAIL - DAY 94
Elle sits at a conference table with her basket. A door
opens and a female guard brings Brooke into the room. Wearing
a horribly tacky orange jumpsuit.
ELLE
Are you okay? You look so sad...and so
. orange.
BROOKE
I ' m glad it's you and not Donovan.
. ELLE
He means well. He's really brilliant and
all.
Brooke sits, not looking convinced.
BROOKE
He better be, for what I ' m paying him.
Elle pushes her basket forward.
ELLE
I brought you some necessities. Pink
sheets. Aromatherapy candles. Loofah.
And The Bible.
She holds up a "Cosmopolitan".
BROOKE
You're an angel.
Elle squirms in her seat.
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 75.
94 CONTINUED: 94
ELLE
But I have to tell you the real reason
I ' m here. Professor Donovan says we
really, really need your alibi.
Brooke tears up.
BROOKE
Elle, I can't. You don't understand.
ELLE
Who could better understand than me?
Brooke dabs her eyes with a corner of the pink Ralph Lauren
sheets.
BROOKE
It's so shameful...
ELLE
Whatever it is — it could save you.
BROOKE
That's just it — it would ruin me!
ELLE
How?
Brooke composes herself. Takes a deep breath. Looks at Elle.
BROOKE
I have made my fortune on my ability to
teach women how to perfect their bodies
with the Brooke's Butt Buster workout.
ELLE
I know! You helped me go from a six to a
four!
Brooke starts to cry again.
BROOKE
On the day of Heyworth's murder, I was —
She snorts back a sob.
BROOKE (CONT'D)
(continuing)
— getting liposuction.
Elle gasps.
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 76.
94 CONTINUED: (2) 94
ELLE
No!
BROOKE
(completely shamed)
I ' m a fraud! But it's not like normal
people can have this ass! If my fans
knew, I ' d lose everything. I've already
lost my husband. I rather be in jail
then lose my reputation!
Elle hugs her to her chest, consoling her.
ELLE
Your secret is safe with me.
Ratings
Scene 29 - Donovan's Frustration: The Unrevealed Alibi
The associates and interns sit at a table piled high with
research, as Donovan goes over his notes.
DONOVAN
.. We've got two interviews tomorrow that
Dick and Bobby are gonna handle, and the
ex-wife in an hour.
He looks up.
DONOVAN (CONT'D)
(continuing)
Sarah, can you grab me some coffee?
Sarah rises, and fetches the coffee from the side table.
DONOVAN (CONT'D)
(continuing)
And according to this communique from the
prison, our client apparently had a visit
from her sister? A Miss Delta Gamma —
He looks at Elle.
DONOVAN (CONT'D)
(continuing)
Anyone you know?
Elle looks up, caught. The others looks at her.
ELLE
I went to get her alibi.
Emmett looks over, surprised.
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 77,
95 CONTINUED: 95
DONOVAN
Did you get it?
ELLE
Yes. But I can't tell you what it is.
The others can't believe this.
DONOVAN
Why the hell not?
' ELLE
I promised her I ' d keep it secret. I
can't break the bonds of sisterhood!
Now he's pissed.
DONOVAN
Fuck sisterhood. This is a murder trial,
not some scandal at the sorority house.
I want the alibi.
Sarah sets Donovan's coffee down. Watching to see what Elle
will do.
ELLE
I can't give it to you. All I can tell
you is that she's innocent.
An ASSISTANT pokes her head in the room.
ASSISTANT
Mr. Donovan? Mrs. Windham Vandermark is
on line two.
Donovan rises, still annoyed.
DONOVAN
Someone reason with her while I take
this.
He walks out. The others look at Elle.
BOBBY
Are you crazy? Tell him the alibi.
ELLE
, No!
DICK
We're gonna lose the case if you don't.
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 78.
95 CONTINUED: (2) 95
ELLE
Then we're not very good lawyers.
Emmett hides a smile. Warner leans over to Elle. Sarah is
nearby, listening. •
WARNER
(quietly)
If you tell him, you'll probably make
summer associate. Who cares.about Brooke?
Think about yourself.
ELLE
I gave her my word, Warner.
Sarah watches — seeing both Warner and Elle in a different
light.
Donovan storms back in.
DONOVAN
The ex-wife seems to be unconcerned with
the fact that her interview is today.
She's at a spa in the Berkshires. *
GERARD
A spa?
(to Elle)
Isn't that like, your Mother-Ship?
Elle shrugs and looks at Donovan.
ELLE .
I can go if you want.
ENID
Why you?
GERARD
(to Enid)
Have you ever been to a spa?
ENID
And subscribe to the doctrine of self-
hatred imposed upon my gender by male *
delusions of the way women are supposed
to look? *
(beat) .*
Twice. *
Donovan motions toward Elle. Then looks at Emmett with a *
pointed "Get the alibi" look.
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 79.
95 CONTINUED: (3) 95
DONOVAN
Go with her.
Ratings
Scene 30 - Pilates, Mud Treatments, and a Surprising Revelation
Emmett drives, Elle is shotgun.
ELLE
Explain to me why you're so anti- Brooke.
EMMETT
Uh, for starters, she won'-t give us an
alibi —
ELLE
Aside from that.
EMMETT
She's completely untrustworthy.
ELLE
Why?
EMMETT
She married an old man, she's made a
living on telling women they're too fat,
she hawks her crap on the Home Shopping
Network...
ELLE
A) He's an old man with a really big
penis. B) She never told me I was fat.
And C) Victoria Principal sells on that
network.
EMMETT
And D) Brooke is obviously hiding
something.
ELLE
But maybe it's not what you think.
EMMETT
But maybe it is— .
They're quiet for a moment. She looks at him.
ELLE
You're kind of being a butt-head right
now.
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 80.
96 CONTINUED: 96
EMMETT
(amused)
How do you figure?
ELLE
Because people aren't always what they
seem to be and you refuse to see that.
Have a little faith. You might be
surprised.
They're quiet again while he thinks about this. He looks
over at her.
EMMETT
I can't believe you called me a butt-
head. No one's called me a butt-head
since ninth grade.
ELLE
Maybe not to your face...
She gives him a teasing smile. He smiles back at her,
shaking his head.
97 INT. SPA - LOBBY - DAY 97
Elle and Emmett are at the desk.
ELLE
We have two o'clock massages. Kerrigan
and Woods.
DESK CLERK
Go on back. .
Elle starts to go, then stops.
ELLE
Oh, and my friend Katherine Windham
Vandermark is here somewhere and I ' m
supposed to meet her. for a Pilates class.
Do you have her schedule?
DESK CLERK
(checking)
She's in the mud room until four.
Elle smiles her thanks and walks off with Emmett.
EMMETT
Damn. We can't see her for an hour?
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 81.
97 CONTINUED: 97
ELLE
No, she can't move for an hour.
She grabs his arm and pulls him down the hall.
98 INT. SPA - MUD ROOM - DAY 98 *
MRS. WINDHAM VANDERMARK, late 40s, brunette, East Coast hoity- *
toity — lies on a table like a corpse, stiff with mud, *
cucumbers over her eyes. Elle and Emmett poke their heads in.
ELLE
Mrs. Windham Vandermark?
EMMETT
We're here from Austen, Platt, Jaret &
Donovan --
MRS. WINDHAM VANDERMARK
So, you found me.
Emmett looks at Elle.
EMMETT
(sotto)
She's naked.
MRS. WINDHAM VANDERMARK
I ' m covered in very expensive Egyptian
mud ••— hardly naked.
ELLE
(to Emmett)
I'll cover her — parts.
Elle settles on three washcloths, strategically placed.
MRS. WINDHAM VANDERMARK
So, I hear the tart from California shot - *
Heyworth. *
EMMETT
Well, that's what we're trying to prove
didn't happen. Do you have any reason to
believe it did?
MRS. WINDHAM VANDERMARK
I never met the woman, but from what my
daughter tells me, she's quite the cun—
ELLE
(interrupting her)
She's not!
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 82.
98 CONTINUED: 98
EMMETT
Did your daughter ever say anything to
you about Brooke and Heyworth's
relationship?
MRS. WINDHAM VANDERMARK
Aside from the fact that he found her on *
an infomercial? She said they humped like *
gorillas . Chutney could hear them all
the way in the pool house.
EMMETT
I ' m sure that was very awkward for
Chutney.
(sotto)
Much as it is for me, hearing you tell
about it.
MRS. WINDHAM VANDERMARK
But I guess it wasn't enough for Brooke.
EMMETT
Why do you say that?
MRS . WINDHAM VANDERMARK
Haven't you seen the cabana boy?
ELLE
(uneasy)
Yes. ...
MRS. WINDHAM VANDERMARK
Like I said, I've never met Brooke, but I
have seen her from a distance. When I ' d
come over to pick up the alimony check
that Heyworth forgot to mail every month,
she'd be out by the pool, with Mr. Hot
Pants hovering over her with some pink
drink.
EMMETT
Hovering?
MRS . WINDHAM VANDERMARK
I didn't stick around long enough to
watch him stick his swizzle stick in her
mouth, but I ' d bet my next check that
that ' s where he was about to put it .
Ratings
Scene 31 - Elle's Blonde Legal Defense Fund
Emmett drives, raving.
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 83.
99 CONTINUED: 99
EMMETT
How can you still believe she's innocent?
ELLE
You're going to trust the word of a woman
who named her child after a condiment?
She's ly-ing.
EMMETT
And you know this for a fact?
' ELLE
Did you see the icky black color of her
hair?
EMMETT
So?
ELLE
I never trust a woman who's not blonde.
Except for my friend Serena, but that's
only because she's a blonde at heart.
That's the whole reason I ' m starting the
Blonde Legal Defense Fund.
He looks at her and laughs.
EMMETT
The what?
ELLE
Blondes are discriminated against
worldwide! Brooke's a blonde, and people
are saying she's sleeping with the cheesy
pool boy and shooting her husband. If
she was a mousy brunette, it would be,
"Oh, the poor widow."
EMMETT
You're serious?
She's fired up now.
ELLE
You should see the way I ' m treated in
class! I'm a complete source of mockery.
This is why the Blonde Legal Defense Fund
is needed.
He goes along with it, won over by her enthusiasm.
EMMETT
Okay, how would it work?
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 84.
99 CONTINUED: (2) 99
ELLE
It would be a full-service law firm, by
and for blondes, providing positive
blonde role models and community outreach
in high blonde areas. I mean, think
about it — name one blonde intellectual
role model.
EMMETT
— I can't.
ELLE
That is a direct result of anti- blonde
discrimination!
EMMETT
Wait — Hilary Clinton.
ELLE
If she were a true blonde, she would've
left the cheating bastard. Blondes don't
let their husbands get fellated by
brunettes and live to tell about it.
Emmett frowns.
EMM ETT
. In that case, maybe Heyworth got -—
fellated —by a brunette and Brooke
caught him.
ELLE
Exactly how much gorilla sex do you think
a sixty-year-old man can take? •.
EMMETT
That's not really a topic that keeps me
up at night — but maybe it should.
Elle digs in her purse.
ELLE
Speaking of that •— I bought you some
seaweed cream while we were at the spa.
She hands it to him. He keeps his hands on the wheel, not
taking it.
EMMETT
What the hell is that for?
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 85.
99 CONTINUED: (3) 99
ELLE
The bags under your eyes. You're an
attractive man, but you need to take
better care of yourself.
EMMETT
I don't --
(gesturing to the cream)
Do that stuff.
ELLE
Well, you should —. I f you look good, you • *
feel good and if you feel good, you *
project joy into the world. *
EMMETT *
Projecting joy is not my job.
ELLE
. (sighing)
Fine. Sorry I brought it up.
She puts the cream back in her purse. They ride in silence
for a moment. Then —
EMMETT
You really think I ' m attractive?
ELLE
For a butt-head? Yes.
She smiles at him. .
Ratings
Scene 32 - Elle Helps Dorky David Win Over a Freshman Girl
Elle walks down the sidewalk to her dorm, approaching Dorky *
David as he tries to ask out a FRESHMAN GIRL who thinks she's
a lot cuter than she actually is. She stands with her *
freshman friends. *
- DORKY DAVID
So — I called your room last night. *
FRESHMAN GIRL
(cold) ' *
I heard. .*
DORKY DAVID *
I was thinking maybe we could go out *
sometime. *
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 86.
100 CONTINUED: 100
FRESHMAN GIRL *
Uh, n o . . . you're a dork. *
turns back to her FRIENDS who all laugh at him. Elle *
winces as she passes. *
DORKY DAVID
(hopeful)
I ' m in law school —
The Freshman Girl turns back to him. *
FRESHMAN GIRL
Look — I ' m not going out with you. I *
can't believe you'd even ask. Girls like *
me don't go out with losers like you. *
Her friends snicker. Elle stops at this and sighs, *
acknowledging to herself that she has to help this guy. She *
turns and marches back, SLAPPING Dorky David across the face. *
Dorky David is stunned, as is the Freshman Girl. *
ELLE *
(upset)
Why didn't you call me?
DORKY DAVID
What?
ELLE
We spend a beautiful night together and
then I never hear from you again?
DORKY DAVID
I — uh —
Elle signals with her eyes for him to go along with it.
DORKY DAVID (CONT'D)
(continuing)
I'm sorry?
ELLE
For what? Breaking my heart or ruining sex for me *
with any other man? *
DORKY DAVID
Uh — both?
ELLE
Forget it. I've already spent too many
hours crying over you.
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 87.
100 CONTINUED: ( 2 ) 100
She rushes off. Dorky David and the Freshman Girl and her *
friends watch Elle go. After a moment, the girl turns to David.
FRESHMAN GIRL
So, urn, when did you wanna go out?
ANOTHER GIRL *
I ' m free on Friday. *
Walking away, Elle hears this and smiles.
Ratings
Scene 33 - Revelation of an Affair in the Courtroom
People ascend the wide courthouse steps.
BAILIFF (O.S.)
The first district court is now in session.
The honorable Judge William R. Ptak presiding.
102 INT. COURTROOM - DAY .102
The DA grills Mrs. Windham Vandermark.
DA JOYCE RAFFERTY
And what was the defendant doing?
MRS. WINDHAM VANDERMARK
Sitting next to the pool topless, while
the Latin boy handed her a drink.
CUT TO:
103 INT. COURTROOM - DAY 103
DA Rafferty continues her grilling.
DA JOYCE RAFFERTY
And where was she exactly?
This time — Chutney is on the stand.
CHUTNEY
Standing over my father's dead body.
CUT TO:
104 INT. COURTROOM - DAY 104
CLOSE ON a tiny Speedo thong . *
DA JOYCE RAFFERTY (O.S.)
Mr. Salvatore, can you tell us what this *
is? *
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 88.
104 CONTINUED: 104
We PULL BACK to reveal that the DA is holding it up as she *
questions Enrique. *
ENRIQUE
My uniform.
DA JOYCE RAFFERTY
This is the uniform that Mrs. Windham
asked you to wear while cleaning her
pool?
ENRIQUE
Yes.
DA JOYCE RAFFERTY
And are you or are you not, having an
affair with Brooke Windham?
Enrique shifts in his seat.
ENRIQUE
Define affair.
DA JOYCE RAFFERTY
Have you inserted your genitalia into
hers?
DONOVAN
Objection —
DA JOYCE RAFFERTY
(to Enrique)
Have you and Mrs. Windham had sexual
relations?
ENRIQUE
Yes! Okay? Yes!
The courtroom gasps. Elle looks over at Brooke, who's
shaking her head, outraged.
Ratings
Scene 34 - Brooke's Alibi and a Night In
Everyone files out. As Brooke is being led away, she turns *
to Elle. *
BROOKE
I'm not having an affair with Enrique — *
you know a Delta Gamma would never sleep
with a man who wears a thong! I just
liked watching him bend over to clean the
filter —
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 89.
105 CONTINUED: 105
ELLE
I believe you! Don't worry.
Brooke is taken away.
106 INT. ELLE'S DORM ROOM - NIGHT 106
Elle, in sweats and a pony-tail, pours over a mammoth-sized
deposition. A KNOCK sounds.
ELLE
Come in.
Sarah enters.
SARAH
(re the depo)
You done with that yet?
Elle hands the deposition over.
ELLE
Take it. I've read it twenty times.
She grabs another one off of the stack and begins reading.
Sarah lingers.
SARAH
I believe her, too. I don't think she's
having an affair with Enrique.
ELLE
Too bad you and I are the only ones.
SARAH
I ' m still can't believe you didn't tell
Donovan the alibi.
Elle looks up, defensive.
ELLE
It's not my alibi to tell —
SARAH
(interrupting)
I know. I thought that was very —
classy of you. .
ELLE
(surprised)
Really? Thanks.
Sarah starts to go, then stops.
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 90.
106 CONTINUED: 106
SARAH
y Have you ever noticed that Donovan never
asks Warner to bring him coffee? He's
asked me at least a dozen times.
Elle shrugs.
ELLE
Men are helpless. You know that. *
Sarah lingers, leaning on the edge of the couch.
SARAH
Warner can't even do his own laundry.
ELLE
I know. He has it sent out.
SARAH
Did you know he got wait-listed when he -
applied? His father had to make a call.
ELLE
(stunned)
You're kidding!
A KNOCK sounds on the open door and Margot and Serena poke
their heads in.
MARGOT AND SERENA
Surprise!
ELLE
Oh, my God! ' -.
Sarah watches as Elle jumps up to hug the girls, who each
have a bottle of Veuve Cliquot in their hands.
ELLE (CONT'D)
(continuing)
What're you doing here?!
SERENA
We're on our way to the bridal show in *
New York so we thought we'd rescue you *
from law school for the night.
MARGOT
(tempting her)
We have a limo downstairs and lots more
of these.
She wiggles her champagne bottle.
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 91.
106 CONTINUED: (2) 106
ELLE
You guys — I can't. We're in the middle
of a trial.
SERENA *
Where's Warner? *
SARAH *
(confused) *
At the office ~ *
Margot and Serena look over at her. *
MARGOT
Oh, how sweet! You made friends with a
nerdy girl.
ELLE
Margot!
SERENA
Bring her, too.
(to Sarah)
C'mon. You can wear one of Elle's
outfits.
SARAH
That's okay —
MARGOT
(to Elle)
Speaking of which, can you please put on
some party clothes? You look like
someone rolled you in something sticky
and dragged you through a K-Mart.
ELLE
(torn)
I can't believe you guys are actually
here — but this case is important. I'll *
make it up to you after finals, okay? I
— promise. I really want to do a good job.
Margot and Serena stare at her, realizing she means it.
SERENA
Okay. . . Call us if you change your mind.
They start to head out. Margot hands Sa-rah the bottle of champagne.
MARGOT
Here.
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 92.
106 CONTINUED: (3) 106
She spots The Rock on Sarah's finger and grabs her hand.
MARGOT (CONT'D)
(continuing)
Jesus. Talk about a Rock. You must be
better in bed than you look.
Elle hustles them out the door.
ELLE
I'll call you as soon as it's over, okay? *
Sisters forever? *
MARGOT AND SERENA *
Sister forever. *
She shuts the door behind them. Then looks at Sarah.
ELLE *
(continuing)
Sorry about that.
Sarah sets down the Veuve.
SARAH
Save it.
She smiles at Elle.
SARAH (CONT'D)
(continuing)
We'll drink it after we win.
Elle smiles .
Ratings
Scene 35 - Paulette's Failed Attempt at Impressing the UPS Guy
Paulette arranges a nail polish display by the door.
UPS GUY (O.S.)
I've got a big one for you.
Paulette freezes and slowly turns to find UPS Guy holding out
a big package.
UPS GUY (CONT'D)
Can you sign?
He hands her the computerized tablet and as he does, the pen
velcroed to the side falls off.
Paulette watches as it FALLS IN SLO-MO. Realizing that now *
is the perfect time to try the Bend & Snap.
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 93.
107 CONTINUED: 107
She bends slowly, tush out, knee cocked. She grabs the pen
and as she prepares to Snap back up, UPS Guy leans over to
help.
UPS GUY (CONT'D)
(continuing)
Got it?
Not realizing he's leaning over, she SNAPS back up --
CLOCKING him in the NOSE with her head.
He reels backward, holding his nose, blood flowing as
Paulette stares at him-in horror.
PAULETTE
Oh my God!
CUT TO:
108 INT. COURTHOUSE - HALLWAY - DAY 108
Elle waits in line for the water fountain, talking on her
cell phone.
ELLE
(into phone)
You broke his nose?!
We INTERCUT with Paulette as she watches- UPS Guy being
carried out by paramedics on a gurney. The ladies of the
shop flutter around him, concerned.
UPS GUY
I'm okay —
PAULETTE
I think he noticed me, Elle —
(sobbing)
But only because I maimed him!
ELLE
(consoling)
I'll be over right after the trial, okay?
We're about to cross- examine Enrique.
And don't worry! My friend Serena barfed
on a guy during "The Blair Witch Project"
and end up dating him for three months.
She hangs up. Enrique cuts in front of her in line for the
water fountain. She glares at him, tapping her foot.
He finishes getting his drink and turns, looking at her.
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 94.
108 CONTINUED: 108
ENRIQUE
Don't stomp your little Prada sandals at
me, Miss Thing.
He walks past, as.Elle gapes at him. Realizing.
Ratings
Scene 36 - Elle Exposes Enrique's Affair and Sexuality in Court
Elle grabs Emmett's arm as he whispers with Donovan.
ELLE
He's gay! Enrique is gay!
EMMETT
What?!
She grabs Warner as he's passing.
ELLE
Warner, what kind of shoes do I have on?
He looks down at her Prada sandals.
WARNER
Pink ones.
ELLE
See?
Donovan frowns, not seeing.
DONOVAN
What are you talking about?
ELLE
He's gay — he isn't Brooke's lover!
He's making it up. Whoever killed
Heyworth is paying him off.
EMMETT
Back up. How do you know he's gay?
ELLE
Gay men know designers. Straight men
don't.
She points at Warner, who shrugs. Brooke leans over.
BROOKE
What's going on?
ELLE
Enrique's gay. I ' m sure of it.'
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 95.
109 CONTINUED: 109
BROOKE
He did leave a Cher tape in the pool
house once —
Donovan scoffs.
DONOVAN
While I appreciate your masterful legal *
theory, I have a murder trial to attend *
to.
He grabs Emmett's arm and pulls him aside as they confer on
more serious matters. Emmett looks at her as if to say
"Sorry", before he looks back at Donovan.
Brooke looks at Donovan, then back at Elle, rolling her eyes.
Elle sits down, pissed. Warner is next to her.
ELLE
Thanks for the backup.
WARNER
How was I supposed to know what kind of
shoes you had on?
She looks at him like he's a complete idiot, as the judge
takes his seat.
110 INT. COURTROOM - MOMENTS LATER - DAY 110
Donovan is in front of Enrique, who is at the stand. *
DONOVAN
Mr. Salvatore, do you have any proof that
you and Mrs. Windham were having an
affair?
ENRIQUE
Just the love in my heart.
Women in the audience openly sigh. Elle makes a puke
gesture. Enid concurs.
Donovan smiles a smug smile.
DONOVAN
If that's all the proof that he has, your
Honor, I think I'm done here.
Emmett stands.
EMMETT
I have a couple of questions, Your Honor?
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 96.
110 CONTINUED: 110
Donovan glares at him.
EMMETT (CONT'D)
(continuing; sotto to Donovan)
Give me two minutes.
He approaches Enrique and starts firing questions at rapid
speed.
EMMETT (CONT'D)
(continuing)
Did you ever take Mrs. Windham on a date?
ENRIQUE
Yes.
EMMETT
Where?
ENRIQUE
A restaurant in Oakland. Where no one
would recognize us.
EMMETT
And how long have you been sleeping with
Mrs. Windham?
. ENRIQUE
Three months.
EMMETT
And what is your boyfriend's name?
ENRIQUE
Chuck.
The audience lets out a gasp. Elle looks up, shocked, then
delighted.
Enrique begins to sweat.
ENRIQUE (CONT'D)
(continuing)
I ' m sorry, I misunderstood. Chuck is
just a friend.
CHUCK, scrawny and angry, stands up in the audience.
CHUCK
If I ' m just your friend, why have we been
doing the slippy-slap every night for the
past six months?
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 97.
110 CONTINUED: (2) 110
The courtroom ERUPTS and the judge bangs the gavel.
Elle smiles victoriously from her seat. Emmett grins back at
her.
Donovan shakes his head, smiling in amazement.
Ratings
Scene 37 - Elle's Success Turns Sour: Donovan's Unwanted Advance
Elle and Emmett walk down the stairs together in high
spirits. Donovan catches up.
DONOVAN
Good work today, Ms. Woods.
ELLE
Thank you!
He walks on. She looks at Emmett, excited. He high-fives *
her.
112 INT. BEAUTY OASIS - NIGHT 112 *
Paulette is closing up as Elle follows her around.
PAULETTE
(in a giddy, rush)
And after they set his nose, he came back *
for his truck and I offered to drive for
him since he was still on pain-killers
and we spent the whole afternoon
together! He was unconscious for part of *
it, but it was really fun!
ELLE
(hugging Paulette)
I ' m so happy for you!
PAULETTE
How'd it go at the trial?
ELLE
Great. Donovan actually said the words
"Good work, Ms. Woods". He takes me
seriously! Can you believe it?
PAULETTE
Of course I can believe it. You're going *
to make a great lawyer. *
Paulette looks at Elle. Emotional.
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 98.
112 CONTINUED: 112
PAULETTE (CONT'D)
(continuing)
Elle, you've changed my life. You are
the kindest, most wonderful angel.
Without you, I wouldn't have Rufus or a *
dinner date. Now go and share your *
goodness with the world while I stay here
and have my hoo-hoo waxed.
113 INT. AUSTEN, JARET, PLATT AND DONOVAN - HALLWAY - NIGHT 113
Elle passes Sarah, who carries a stack of depos into the *
conference room to Dick and Bobby.
SARAH
Donovan asked to see you before you • ' *
leave. *
ELLE
(excited) *
Really? *
SARAH
He's already got his coffee — maybe he *
needs a donut. *
They share a smile as Elle walks over to Donovan's glass- *
walled office and knocks on the door. Nervous.
DONOVAN
Come on in.
He beckons her inside, and she goes, shutting the door behind
her.
114 INT. DONOVAN'S OFFICE - NIGHT 114
He's behind his desk. He motions for her to sit in one of
the two chairs opposite him.
DONOVAN
Sit down.
ELLE
Is everything okay?
DONOVAN
You followed your intuition today and you
. were right on target. I should"ve
listened.
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 99.
114 CONTINUED: 114
ELLE
(stunned)
Thank you.
DONOVAN
About the alibi —
She sighs,
ELLE
I ' m sorry, but —
DONOVAN
(cutting her off)
I ' m impressed that you took the
initiative to go there and get it. That's
what makes a good lawyer. And on top of
that, you gained the client's trust and
kept it.. That' s what makes a great
lawyer. You're smart, Elle. Smarter than •• . *
most of the guys I have on my payroll. *
Elle is overwhelmed by his praise.
ELLE
Wow. That means so much to me to hear you
say that.
Donovan walks around his desk and sits in the chair opposite
her.
DONOVAN
I think it's time discuss your career *
path. Have you thought about where you *
might be a summer associate?
ELLE
(still overwhelmed)
Not really. I know how competitive it . •.
all is —
He smiles.
DONOVAN
You know what competition is really
about, don't you?
Eager for his knowledge, Elle is on the edge of her seat. He *
leans in. *
DONOVAN (CONT'D)
(continuing)
It's about ferocity. Carnage. *
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 100.
114 CONTINUED: (2) 114
DONOVAN (CONT'D)
Balancing human intelligence with animal *
diligence. Knowing exactly what you want *
and how far you'll go to get it. How far *
will Elle go? *
As he says the last sentence, he SLIDES his hand UP HER
THIGH.
115 OUTSIDE DONOVAN'S OFFICE 115
Sarah walks down the hallway, glancing in Donovan's office to see —
HER POV —
Donovan's hand sliding up Elle's skirt. She shakes her head
in disgust, & heads off- NOT SEEING
Ratings
Scene 38 - Elle's Decision to Quit
Elle stares at Donovan in horror, then grabs his hand —
stopping its journey upward.
ELLE
(upset)
You're hitting on me?
DONOVAN
You're a beautiful girl, Elle. *
ELLE *
So everything you just said —? *
DONOVAN *
I ' m a man who knows what I want. *
Elle rises, stung. She stares at him for a beat.
ELLE *
And I ' m a law student who's finally
realized her professor is a pathetic
asshole.
She walks out.
DONOVAN
(calling out)
Too bad. I thought you were a law
student who wanted to be a lawyer.
Elle keeps walking.
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 101.
117 INT. AUSTEN, JARET, PLATT ETC. - ELEVATOR - MOMENT LATER 117 *
Elle is in the elevator. Flushed and upset. As the doors
start to close, Sarah sticks her arm in, blocking them.
SARAH
You almost had me fooled.
ELLE
What?
SARAH
Maybe you should sleep with the judge
too. Then we can win the case.
Sarah steps back, letting the doors shut. *
118 INT. BUILDING LOBBY - NIGHT 118
Elle stomps out of the elevator, as Emmett gets in.
EMMETT
(smiling)
Hey —
ELLE
I'm quitting.
She marches past. He follows, catching up. *
EMMETT
Whoa -- Why?
ELLE
Law school was a mistake. Getting this
internship was a mistake.
EMMETT
What're you talking about? You earned
it-
She snorts.
ELLE
I didn't earn anything. I got this
internship because Donovan liked the way
I looked. Which he made clear .tonight *
when he tried to feel me up. *
Emmett looks pissed as he processes this.
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) . 102.
118 CONTINUED: 118
EMMETT
(mind reeling)
So now you're —?
. ELLE
Going back to LA. Maybe I can fulfill my *
destiny as a useless bimbo and join the *
Swedish Bikini Team. No more navy blue
suits. No more panty-hose. No more
trying to be something I ' m not.
EMMETT *
What if you're trying to be something you
are? The hell with Donovan. Stay. *
She stops, giving him a sad smile. *
ELLE *
Thanks for not treating me the way *
everyone else here does. Call me if
you're ever in California. *
She walks out. Emmett watches her go, hating it.
Ratings
Scene 39 - Elle's Confidence Restored: From Quitting Law School to Representing Brooke in Court
Elle's Boxster, packed with suitcases and the potted palm, *
pulls up.
120 INT. BEAUTY OASIS - NIGHT 120 *
Elle sits in front of Paulette, dejected. Not even bothering
with a manicure.
PAULETTE
(upset)
You can't go home!
ELLE
What's the point of staying? All people
see when they look at me is blonde hair
and big boobs. No one's ever going to
take me seriously. The people at law
school don't, Warner doesn't — I don't
even think my parents take me seriously.
They wanted me to grow up and become a
Victoria's Secret model who marries a
rock star. Now, for the first time, it
seemed like someone expected me to do
something better with my life than wear
underwear for a living. But I was kidding
myself — Donovan didn't see me as a
lawyer. He saw me as a piece of ass.
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 103.
120 CONTINUED: 120
ELLE (CONT'D)
Just like everyone else. It turns out, I
am a j oke.
She stands up.
ELLE (CONT'D)
(continuing)
The hell with law school. I just came to
say goodbye.
IN A NEARBY CHAIR
Professor Elspeth Stromwell spins around, nails drying,
facing Elle.
PROFESSOR STROMWELL
If you let one stupid prick ruin your
life, you're not the girl I thought you
were.
Elle looks at her, shocked, as Professor Stromwell stands and
goes.
121 INT. JAIL WAITING ROOM - NIGHT 121
CLOSE ON A TV — Donovan is being interviewed is on the
evening news.
DONOVAN ON TV
Enrique Salvatore has been discredited as a witness.
REPORTER #2 ON TV
Did you go in there knowing how you were
going to discredit Mr. Salvatore?
DONOVAN ON TV
Absolutely. It's a little thing I like
to call strategy.
He gives the reporters a smug smile.
IN THE WAITING ROOM
Brooke looks away from the TV. Emmett is next to her,
prepping her for the following day.
BROOKE
Is he always such an ass?
EMMETT
(containing himself)
He's the top defense attorney in the
state. Of course he's an ass.
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 104.
121 CONTINUED: 121
/"""^ BROOKE
^....J But is he an ass that's gonna win my case? *
EMMETT
He's an ass that's gonna try. *
BROOKE
He thinks I ' m guilty, doesn't he?
EMMETT
That's not what's important.
BROOKE
To me it is. He doesn't trust me. Why
should I trust him?
Emmett thinks for a moment. Then looks at Brooke. *
EMMETT
You're right. Why should you?
122 EXT. COURTHOUSE - DAY 122 *
People enter. Reporters set up their cameras. Dorky David *
passes by in a suit and tie. *
123 INT. COURTHOUSE - HALLWAY - DAY 123
Donovan and Emmett head into the courtroom.
DONOVAN
Keep that bitch away from me.
EMMETT
She's our client.
DONOVAN
Not Brooke. Elle.
EMMETT
(blatantly pissed)
Funny how a woman can turn into a bitch
just by saying "no".
Donovan glares at Emmett as they continue in.
Behind them — SARAH stops in her tracks, having heard all of
this.
124 INT. COURTROOM - MOMENTS LATER 124
/•""""•', Donovan takes his seat next to Brooke. She smiles at him.
v_ J
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 105.
124 CONTINUED: 124
DONOVAN
What're you so happy about? You're on
trial for murder.
BROOKE
Get up.
DONOVAN
What?
BROOKE
You're fired. I have new representation.
DONOVAN
Who?
The door of the courtroom BANGS open and ELLE STRIDES IN,
dressed in a Prada mini-dress, Underdog in her purse. She
blows a bubble, lets it pop, then sets her briefcase down
next to Donovan's.
•
' ELLE
(to Donovan)
Excuse you. You're in my way.
She nudges him aside. Donovan looks at Brooke.
DONOVAN
She's a law student. She can't defend
you.
Dorky David steps up, holding out a marked casebook. •*
DORKY DAVID *
Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court Rule .*
3:03. *
ELLE *
(to Donovan) - *
See? *
JUDGE
Counselors, approach the bench.
Elle starts to head up.
DONOVAN
You're not going up there.
ELLE
Yes, I am.
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 106.
124 CONTINUED: ( 2 ) 124
BROOKE
(to Donovan)
I don't think you heard me. You're fired.
She's my lawyer.
JUDGE
Counselors, now. All of you.
Elle, Donovan and Emmett head up, as does the DA. Elle hands
the judge the case book.
ELLE
Elle Woods, your honor. Rule 3:03 of the *
Supreme Judicial Court states that a law *•
student may appear on behalf of a *
defendant in criminal proceedings. *
DA JOYCE RAFFERTY
(stoked)
I have no problem with this.
DONOVAN
I do. I'm not allowing it.
ELLE
(pointedly)
But you agreed last night. In the
office? When we were discussing my
"career"?
The implication lingers in the air, as Donovan glares at her.
JUDGE
(reading the casebook)
The ruling also states that you need a
licensed attorney to supervise you. Mr.
Donovan?
DONOVAN
That, I won't agree to.
Emmett steps forward.
EMMETT
I' m supervising, Your Honor. *
Elle smiles at him. Donovan looks from Emmett to Elle,
completely derailed.
JUDGE
Well, then, Ms. Woods. Proceed.
Elle walks back to the table with a grin. Warner looks shocked.
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 107.
124 (CONTINUED: (3) 124
IN THE AUDIENCE
Paulette beams, the UPS Guy in the nose brace, next to her.
Serena and Margot, now in attendance, STAND clapping and
squealing in a completely inappropriate way.
SERENA
Go, Elle!
Donovan takes a seat in the audience. As he passes by Brooke:
DONOVAN
Enjoy prison.
The judge looks at Brooke.
JUDGE
Mrs. Windham, you do realize what you're
doing?
BROOKE
Absolutely.
As Donovan sits, Margot leans over.
MARGOT
Don't fuck with a Delta Gamma.
AT THE DEFENSE TABLE
Sarah leans forward to Elle, who gathers her notes.
SARAH
Kick some butt.
Elle looks at her, surprised.
JUDGE
Ms. Woods, call your first witness.
ELLE
I'd like to recall Chutney Windham as a
defense witness.
The crowd murmurs. Donovan rolls his eyes.
Ratings
Scene 40 - Chutney's Perm Leads to Confession
Chutney takes her hand off of the Bible and sits.
JUDGE
Ms. Woods, begin your questioning.
.
(CONTINUED)
9/18/2000 Revision (Pink) 108.
125 CONTINUED: 125
ELLE *
First, your Honor, I ' d like to point out *
that not only is there no proof in this *
case, but there's a complete lack of mens *
rea, which by definition tells us that *
there is no crime without a vicious will. *
The DA rolls her eyes, as do the lawyers present. *
JUDGE •*
I am aware of the meaning of mens rea. *
What I am unaware of is why you're giving *
me a vocabulary lesson instead of *
questioning your witness. *
Flustered, Elle turns to Chutney. *
ELLE *
Okay -- Ms. Windham, when you uh arrived *
back at the house? Was your father there? *
CHUTNEY
Not that I saw. But like I said, I went
straight upstairs to take a shower. ' ,
ELLE
And when you came downstairs, what happened?
CHUTNEY
I saw Brooke standing over his body,
drenched in his blood.
ELLE
But Mrs. Windham didn't have a gun?
CHUTNEY
No, she'd stashed it by then.
Brooke rolls her eyes.
EMMETT *
Move to strike that from the record, your *
Honor. Speculation.
JUDGE
Stricken.
Elle mentally kicks herself for not doing this herself. *
Eirimett gives her a reassuring nod. She takes a deep breath, • *
then continues on. *
ELLE
Did you hear a shot fired?
(CONTINUED)
9/18/2000 Revision (Pink) 108A.
125 CONTINUED: (2) 125
CHUTNEY
No. I was in the shower.
ELLE
So at some point in the — twenty
minutes? — you were in the shower, your
father was shot?
CHUTNEY
I guess.
Elle paces a bit. Underdog watches from her purse on the
table, intrigued by her line of questioning.
(CONTINUED)
9/18/2000 Revision (Pink) 109.
125 CONTINUED: (3) . 125
ELLE
Your father was shot while you were in
the shower?
Gerard looks at Emmett.
GERARD
Where's she going with this?
EMMETT
Have a little faith.
ELLE
But you didn't hear the shot, because you
were in the shower.
CHUTNEY
(annoyed)
Yes. I was washing my hair.
Elle's onto something, but not sure what. . *
ELLE
Miss Windham, can you tell us what you'd
been doing earlier in the day?
CHUTNEY
I got up, went to Starbucks, went to the
gym, got a perm, and came home.
ELLE
Where you got in the shower.
CHUTNEY
(impatient)
Yes.
JUDGE *
I believe the witness has made it clear *
that she was in the shower. *
People start to murmur. Donovan snickers. Sarah looks
worried. *
ELLE
Yes, Your Honor. Had you ever gotten a . .*
perm before, Miss Windham?
CHUTNEY
(confused)
Yes.
The beginnings of a smile start to spread across Elle's face. *
(CONTINUED)
9/18/2000 Revision (Pink) 109A.
125 CONTINUED: ( 4 ) . 125
ELLE
How many, would you say?
CHUTNEY
Two a year since I was twelve. You do the
math.
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 110.
125 CONTINUED: (3) 125
ELLE
You know, a girl in my sorority, Tracy
Marcinko, got a perm once. Even though we *
all told her not to ~ curls really *
weren't the right look for her —
(chummy)
She didn't have your bone structure.
Chutney almost smiles.
ELLE (CONT'D)
(continuing)
But, thankfully, that same day, she
entered the Pi Kap wet t-shirt contest
where she was completely hosed down from
head to toe.
Donovan shakes his head at her incompetence.
DA JOYCE RAFFERTY
Objection. Why is this relevant?
Emmett clears his throat, worried. Elle turns around, giving
him a "trust me" look. Then turns back to the judge.
ELLE
(to the judge)
I have a point. I promise.
JUDGE
Then make it.
Elle looks at Chutney. . . *
ELLE
Chutney, why is it that Tracy Marcinko's
curls were ruined when she got hosed
down?
CHUTNEY
Because they got wet.
ELLE
That's right. Because isn't the first
cardinal rule of perm maintenance that
you are forbidden to wet your hair for at
least twenty-four hours after getting a
perm at the risk of de-activating the
ammonium thiglycolate?
Chutney pales.
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 111.
125 CONTINUED: ( 4 ) 125
CHUTNEY
Yes —
Elle continues.
ELLE
And wouldn't someone who's had — thirty
perms? — throughout her lifetime, be
well aware of this rule?
Chutney doesn't answer. She just glares at Brooke.
ELLE (CONT'D)
(continuing)
And if you, in fact, were not washing
your hair, as I suspect you were not,
since your curls are still intact,
wouldn't you have heard the gunshot?
Chutney continues to glare.
ELLE (CONT'D)
(continuing)
And if you in fact, heard the gunshot,
then Brooke Windham wouldn't have had
time to hide the gun before you got
downstairs. Which would mean that you
would've had to have found Mrs. Windham
with a gun in her hand to make your story
sound plausible. Isn't that right?
CHUTNEY
She's younger than I am. Did she tell
you that? How would you feel if your
father married someone younger than you?
ELLE
You, however, had time to hide the gun,
didn't you, Chutney? After you shot your
father?
Brooke looks at Chutney in horror, realizing.
CHUTNEY
I didn't mean to shoot him — • *
(to Brooke) *
I meant to shoot you!
Pandemonium erupts. The gavel pounds.
BROOKE . ' . . ' *
I knew it! *
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 112.
125 CONTINUED: (5) 125
Elle looks at Emmet t., elated at what's just happened.
ELLE
(shocked) *
Oh, my God!
EMMETT
(even more shocked) *
Oh, my G^d.! ! *
Ratings
Scene 41 - Elle's Courtroom Victory and New Beginnings
Reporters mob Elle and Brooke as they make their way out of *
the courtroom. *
REPORTER
Elle, how did you know Chutney was lying?
BROOKE *
Because she is brilliant. *
ELLE
(humble) *
The rules of haircare are simple and
finite . Any Cosmo girl would ' ve known .
The reporters laugh as they snap pictures of her and a happy *
Brooke. *
127 INT. WOODS' BEL AIR HOME - GYM -SAME TIME 127 *
CLOSE ON THE TV — the channels change: golf — a commercial - *
- Elle in the courthouse. *
DANIEL (O.S.) *
What the --? *
Daniel, Elle 's father, watches TV as he does his morning *
workout on the treadmill. *
DANIEL (CONT'D) *
Honey, stop! *
(proud) *
Bile's on TV! *
He looks next to him, where Sapphire is upside down on a yoga *
inversion machine. *
SAPPHIRE'S POV — the upside-down television with Elle on it. *
SAPPHIRE *
Oh, my God! What happened to her tan? '-*
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 113.
128 INT. COURTHOUSE FOYER - MOMENTS LATER 128
As the reporters continue to mob Brooke, Elle steps aside to *
talk to Serena and Margot. . *
SERENA
I wish we could stay longer, but I have a
game.
ELLE
I can't believe you're a Laker Girl!
MARGOT
Hello! You're like, a lawyer.
ELLE
(grinning)
Not yet.
Enid walks up to the girls.
ENID
(to Elle)
Even though you knew your shit today —
you're still a product of the patriarchy
and a creation of the male-dominated
media. And so are your friends.
She looks at Serena.
ENID (CONT'D) *
(continuing; to Serena)
Although — you're kinda hot. Call me.
She walks off. Serena looks alarmed.
ELLE
(hugging them)
Don't worry. She's harmless. I'll see
you guys soon! Thanks for coming!
She air-kisses them as Margot leads a still shell-shocked
Serena away as Emmett walks up to Elle.
129 EXT. COURTHOUSE STEPS - DAY - LATER' 129 *
Elle looks up at the courthouse as the sun sets behind it. *
She smiles, proud of herself. • *
WARNER (O.S.) *
You were amazing today. *
She turns and finds Warner. *
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 114.
129 CONTINUED: 129
ELLE *
Thank you. *
He moves closer. *
WARNER *
It made me realize something. I ' m an *
idiot. *
ELLE . *
Really? *
He turns on the charm. *
WARNER *
I want to be with you, Elle. Forever. *
He pulls her close, hand around her waist, kissing her. She *
looks up at him, a trace of the old love in her eyes. For a *
moment, she melts. *
ELLE . '*
I want to be with you, too, Warner. *
After a moment, she steps back, removing his hand from her '*
waist and wrenching it behind his back. *
ELLE (CONT'D) *
In court. On opposing sides. *
WARNER *
(shocked) *
Are you serious? •*
ELLE *
Huh. Imagine that. Looks like I am. *
She walks down the steps. Warner watches her go, then turns *
to see Sarah, who's witnessed the entire episode. She glares *
at him, then walks past. *
WARNER . *
Sarah — hold on. . *
She shoves him, knocking him on his ass, then rushes to .catch *
up with Elle. *
SARAH *
(calling out) *
Elle, wait up — *
Elle turns. *
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 115.
129 CONTINUED: (2) 129
SARAH (CONT'D) *
(continuing; sheepish) *
I ' m a bitch. *
ELLE *
Yes, you are. *
SARAH *
And Donovan's a-scumbag for coming on to *
you. *
' ELLE *
Yes, he is. • . *
They look at each other in a silent truce. *
SARAH *
So — can we drink that champagne when I *
get back from the pawnshop? *
She pulls off her engagement ring. *
ELLE . . .*
You're pawning The Rock?! *
SARAH •*
Hell, yes. We've got finals to study *
for. In Jamaica. *
She smiles and heads off. Elle smiles, processing this as *
Emmett approaches Elle. . *
EMMETT •*
Up for a celebration dinner? *
ELLE *
Are you asking me on a date? *
EMMETT - *
As long as you realize I'm not just some *
man-toy you can show off like a trophy. *
ELLE ' *
(joking) *
Then, forget it. Besides, I have an early *
class tomorrow. . *
EMMETT *
So Friday at eight? *
She smiles at him. . *
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 116.
129 CONTINUED: ( 3 ) 129
ELLE *
Perfect. *
She heads down the stairs, stops and thinks a moment, then *
runs back up — *
— Grabbing Emmett in a hellacious KISS. He kisses her back. *
We CRANE UP as they embrace on the courthouse steps. *
FADE OUT: *
FADE IN: *
Ratings
Scene 42 - Blonde Legal Defense Club's Popular Orientation Debut
"Welcome Law Students Class of 2004" banners hang over
orientation tables. Nervous first year students stand in
line.
We PAN ACROSS a row of club tables — passing "Harvard Law . *
Journal" and "Environmental Law Association" •— until we *
reach a table that proudly bears the banner of "Blonde Legal
Defense Club".
Elle, in a red 2L t-shirt, stands behind the table,
straightening some flyers. UNDERDOG is plopped down on top *
of the stack. Elle turns to see EMMETT next to her.
'• ' •
EMMETT
• ' .:.
(re Underdog)
Someone missed you.
ELLE
Is he the only one?
EMMETT
What do you think?
They kiss. *
EMMETT (CONT'D)
(continuing; re the crowd)
Looks like you're pretty popular.
Elle smiles, turning back as A NERVOUS 1L GIRL steps up.
NERVOUS 1L GIRL
Do you have to be blonde to sign up?
(CONTINUED)
9/1/2000 Revision (Blue) 117.
130 CONTINUED: 130
ELLE
Only blonde at heart.
(to the girl next to her)
Right?
Elle smiles and looks down at — the NEWLY BLONDE SARAH.
Sarah returns the smile as we PULL BACK to see a CROWD of
first year girls gathered around Elle's table, rushing to
sign up. Ready to be as blonde as they can be.
FADE OUT:
Ratings
Characters in the screenplay, and their arcs:
Character | Arc | Critique | Suggestions |
---|---|---|---|
elle | Elle's character arc in the screenplay begins with her being a bubbly sorority queen who is devastated by a breakup but shows resilience and determination to prove herself. As the story progresses, Elle undergoes significant growth and self-discovery, challenging traditional norms and stereotypes. She transforms into a confident and empowered law student who stands up against discrimination and harassment, ultimately becoming a standout intern in Donovan's team. Elle's journey culminates in her defying expectations and fighting for justice, showcasing her unwavering belief in herself and her ability to make a difference. | The character arc for Elle is well-developed, showcasing her growth and empowerment throughout the screenplay. However, there could be more emphasis on her internal struggles and vulnerabilities to make her transformation even more impactful. Additionally, providing more depth to her relationships with other characters could enhance the emotional resonance of her journey. | To improve the character arc, consider incorporating moments of introspection and vulnerability for Elle to highlight her internal struggles and growth. Develop her relationships with other characters, particularly her friends and colleagues, to add emotional depth and complexity to her journey. Additionally, explore themes of self-discovery and empowerment further to showcase Elle's transformation in a more nuanced and compelling way. |
serena | Serena starts off as a confident and assertive friend who provides comic relief and support to Elle. As the story progresses, she becomes more aware of her naivety and cluelessness, leading to personal growth and self-discovery. Serena learns to balance her bold personality with a more thoughtful and understanding approach towards her friends, ultimately becoming a more well-rounded and empathetic individual. | The character arc for Serena is well-developed, showcasing her growth and evolution throughout the story. However, there could be more specific challenges or conflicts that Serena faces to further highlight her development. Additionally, incorporating moments of vulnerability or introspection could add depth to her character and make her arc even more compelling. | To improve Serena's character arc, consider introducing a specific event or dilemma that challenges her confidence and forces her to confront her naivety. This could be a personal struggle or a conflict within the group that tests her loyalty and friendship. Additionally, adding moments of introspection where Serena reflects on her actions and learns from her mistakes can enhance her character development and make her arc more impactful. |
margot | Margot starts off as a carefree and slightly naive friend who brings levity to Elle's life. As the story progresses, she becomes more supportive and practical, offering advice and comfort during Elle's breakup. Margot's character arc culminates in her being a loyal and protective friend, providing emotional support and understanding to Elle in her time of need. | While Margot's character arc is well-developed and provides a good balance of humor and emotional support, there could be more depth added to her backstory or personal struggles to make her character more dynamic and relatable. Additionally, her transition from carefree to supportive friend could be more clearly defined and explored throughout the screenplay. | To improve Margot's character arc, consider incorporating flashbacks or dialogue that reveal more about her past experiences or motivations. This could add depth to her character and make her more relatable to the audience. Additionally, focus on the gradual shift in Margot's personality from carefree to supportive, showing the reasons behind this change and how it impacts her relationships with Elle and the other characters. |
warner | Warner starts off as a charming but shallow character who prioritizes societal expectations over personal relationships. As the story progresses, he realizes the importance of authenticity and genuine connections, leading to a conflict between his desire for societal approval and his true feelings for Elle. Ultimately, Warner undergoes a transformation where he learns to prioritize love and personal growth over external validation. | The character arc for Warner is well-developed, showcasing his internal conflict and growth throughout the story. However, to enhance the arc, it would be beneficial to delve deeper into Warner's motivations and backstory to provide a clearer understanding of his actions and decisions. Additionally, adding more nuanced interactions between Warner and Elle could further highlight the complexity of their relationship. | To improve the character arc, consider incorporating flashback scenes or dialogue that reveal Warner's upbringing and how it has shaped his beliefs and values. This can add depth to his character and provide insight into his struggles with societal expectations. Furthermore, exploring Warner's vulnerabilities and insecurities could humanize him and make his transformation more impactful for the audience. |
elle woods | Elle's character arc in the screenplay starts with her as a fashion major who is underestimated and judged based on her appearance and interests. Through determination, optimism, and quirky charm, she defies expectations and gains acceptance into Harvard Law School. Throughout her journey, she faces challenges that test her resilience and wit, ultimately leading to personal growth and a successful career as a compassionate and dedicated lawyer. | The character arc for Elle Woods is well-developed, showcasing her transformation from a fashion major to a successful lawyer. However, there could be more depth added to her internal struggles and conflicts to make her character more relatable and multidimensional. Additionally, more emphasis could be placed on the societal barriers she faces as a woman in a male-dominated field to add complexity to her character arc. | To improve the character arc for Elle Woods, consider incorporating more internal conflicts and emotional depth to showcase her vulnerabilities and growth. Explore the challenges she faces as a woman in a male-dominated field and how she overcomes them with determination and wit. This will add layers to her character and make her journey more compelling and relatable to the audience. |
emmett | Emmett starts off as a skeptical and logical law student who doubts Elle's abilities but is won over by her enthusiasm and unique insights. Throughout the feature, he evolves into a supportive and caring character who becomes impressed by Elle's dedication and passion for the case. Emmett's arc culminates in him serving as a voice of reason and encouragement for Elle, showcasing his growth and deepening relationship with her. | The character arc for Emmett is well-developed and shows a clear progression from skepticism to supportiveness. However, to enhance the arc further, it would be beneficial to delve deeper into Emmett's personal motivations and backstory. This would add more depth to his character and provide a stronger foundation for his evolving relationship with Elle. | To improve the character arc for Emmett, consider incorporating scenes that reveal more about his background, such as his reasons for studying law and his personal connection to the case. Additionally, explore moments of internal conflict for Emmett as he grapples with his initial doubts about Elle and his growing admiration for her. This will add complexity to his character and make his transformation more impactful. |
paulette | Paulette starts off as a flustered and slightly clumsy manicurist who befriends Elle and gains confidence and assertiveness through their friendship. As the story progresses, she becomes a supportive and empathetic friend who finds empowerment and gratitude through Elle's legal assistance. Paulette's character arc culminates in her expressing admiration and loyalty towards Elle, showcasing her growth and emotional depth. | While Paulette's character arc is well-developed and adds emotional depth to the screenplay, there could be more focus on her personal growth and development outside of her interactions with Elle. It would be beneficial to explore her backstory, motivations, and struggles in more detail to make her character more well-rounded and relatable to the audience. | To improve Paulette's character arc, consider incorporating scenes that delve deeper into her past experiences, challenges, and aspirations. This will help the audience connect with her on a deeper level and understand the reasons behind her blunt and humorous personality. Additionally, explore her relationships with other characters besides Elle to showcase different facets of her personality and further enrich her character development. |
sarah | Sarah's character arc involves a transformation from being competitive and dismissive to becoming a supportive and understanding ally to Elle. Through their interactions, Sarah learns to appreciate Elle's unconventional approach and creativity, ultimately leading to a mutual respect and collaboration between the two characters. | The character arc for Sarah is well-developed and adds depth to her character. However, it could benefit from more subtle hints early on about her true nature to create a more gradual and believable transformation. Additionally, exploring the reasons behind Sarah's initial behavior could provide further insight into her character development. | To improve the character arc, consider adding scenes that delve into Sarah's background and motivations, shedding light on why she initially behaves the way she does. This will make her transformation more impactful and provide a deeper understanding of her character. Additionally, incorporating moments of vulnerability or self-reflection for Sarah can further enhance her arc and make her journey more compelling for the audience. |
professor donovan | Throughout the screenplay, Professor Donovan starts off as a strict and intimidating figure, setting the tone for the murder case discussion. As he interacts more with Elle and witnesses her growth and determination, he begins to soften his approach and becomes more supportive and encouraging. By the end of the feature, he has developed a strong bond with Elle and sees her as a promising legal mind, proud of her achievements and growth. | The character arc for Professor Donovan is well-developed, showing a clear progression from a strict mentor to a supportive figure for Elle. However, it could benefit from more internal conflict or personal stakes for Professor Donovan to make his transformation even more impactful and engaging for the audience. | To improve the character arc, consider adding a subplot or backstory for Professor Donovan that reveals his own struggles or challenges in the legal field. This could create more depth for his character and make his evolution more compelling. Additionally, explore moments of vulnerability or doubt for Professor Donovan to show a more nuanced and human side to his character. |
brooke | Brooke starts off as a vulnerable and conflicted character with a shameful secret that could ruin her reputation. As the story progresses, she becomes more determined and defiant, fighting to prove her innocence and facing her fears head-on. Ultimately, Brooke finds strength in her vulnerability and learns to accept herself, flaws and all, leading to a resolution where she is able to overcome her past and move forward with a sense of empowerment. | The character arc for Brooke is well-developed and engaging, showcasing her growth and transformation throughout the story. However, there could be more depth added to her internal struggles and conflicts to make her journey even more compelling. Additionally, exploring her relationships with other characters in more depth could provide further insight into her motivations and actions. | To improve the character arc for Brooke, consider delving deeper into her past traumas and how they have shaped her present actions. Show more internal monologues or flashbacks to give the audience a better understanding of her emotional turmoil. Additionally, explore her relationships with Elle and Donovan in more detail to add layers to her character and showcase different facets of her personality. |
donovan | Donovan starts off as dismissive of Elle's capabilities but as the trial progresses, he begins to see her worth and eventually forms a begrudging respect for her. However, his betrayal of Elle leads to a confrontation where he must confront his own moral compass and decide between loyalty to his client or doing what is right. | The character arc for Donovan is compelling and adds depth to his character. However, the betrayal of Elle feels somewhat forced and could be developed more organically throughout the story. Additionally, Donovan's internal struggle could be further explored to make his decision at the climax more impactful. | To improve the character arc, consider foreshadowing Donovan's betrayal earlier in the story through subtle hints or interactions. Develop his internal conflict more explicitly to show the audience the moral dilemma he faces. Allow for moments of vulnerability to humanize Donovan and make his eventual decision more emotionally resonant. |
Top Correlations and patterns found in the scenes:
Pattern | Explanation |
---|---|
Predominance of Humor and Drama | The screenplay has a strong emphasis on humor and drama, with 36 out of 42 scenes (86%) containing one or both of these elements. This combination may create a rollercoaster effect for the audience, keeping them engaged with the story. |
High Dialogue Scores | The dialogue in the screenplay is consistently strong, with 37 out of 42 scenes (88%) scoring 8 or higher. This suggests that the characters have distinct voices and that the conversations are engaging and meaningful to the story. |
Scene Tone vs. Emotional Impact | There seems to be a correlation between scene tone and emotional impact. Scenes with a lighter tone, such as 'Light-hearted', 'Playful', or 'Upbeat', tend to have lower emotional impact scores. In contrast, scenes with heavier tones, such as 'Heartbreaking', 'Serious', or 'Humorous', have higher emotional impact scores. This pattern suggests that the screenplay effectively uses tone to convey emotion. |
Character Changes and High Stakes | Scenes with character changes also tend to have higher stakes, as indicated by the 'High stakes' category. This correlation implies that the character development is closely tied to the progression of the plot and the challenges the characters face. |
Inconsistent Conflict Scores | Conflict scores are somewhat inconsistent, ranging from 4 to 10. This variability might indicate an opportunity to evenly distribute conflict throughout the screenplay, ensuring that each scene contributes to the overall tension and progression of the story. |
Writer's Craft Overall Analysis
The screenplay showcases the writer's ability to create engaging dialogue, dynamic characters, and compelling conflicts. The blend of humor, drama, and unique themes creates a rich and entertaining narrative. The writer's original voice and storytelling skills are evident throughout the scenes.
Key Improvement Areas
Suggestions
Type | Suggestion | Rationale |
---|---|---|
Book | Save the Cat! Writes a Novel by Jessica Brody | This book provides practical tips and techniques for improving storytelling, character development, and structure, which can help enhance the overall pacing and flow of the screenplay. |
Exercise | Write a scene with a strong focus on subtext and nonverbal communication.Practice In SceneProv | Practicing subtext and nonverbal communication in scenes can help deepen character interactions and emotional arcs, as well as improve visual storytelling. |
Screenplay | Study the screenplay for 'Spotlight' by Tom McCarthy and Josh Singer | This screenplay is an excellent example of strong pacing, structure, and character development, which can provide valuable insights for improving the overall quality of the screenplay. |
Stories Similar to this one
Story | Explanation |
---|---|
Legally Blonde | This is an obvious similarity as the screenplay you provided is the script for Legally Blonde itself. The story follows a sorority girl who applies to Harvard Law School to win back her ex-boyfriend. |
The Devil Wears Prada | Both stories feature a young woman navigating a male-dominated professional world, facing challenges and prejudices due to her gender and background. They also share a focus on fashion and personal growth. |
Juno | Both stories feature a young, intelligent, and witty female protagonist who faces unexpected challenges in her personal life and relationships. They also share a unique and humorous tone. |
Election | Both stories feature a determined and ambitious female protagonist who will stop at nothing to achieve her goals, even if it means stepping on others. They also share a satirical and humorous tone. |
Clueless | Both stories feature a young, wealthy, and fashionable female protagonist who learns about life, love, and friendship through her experiences. They also share a humorous and lighthearted tone. |
A Beautiful Mind | Both stories follow a protagonist's journey through higher education and their personal and professional challenges. They also share a focus on intelligence, ambition, and perseverance. |
The Social Network | Both stories follow a young protagonist's journey through higher education and their creation of a groundbreaking and influential product. They also share a focus on ambition, competition, and innovation. |
Dead Poets Society | Both stories feature a charismatic and unconventional teacher who inspires and challenges their students to think and act differently. They also share a focus on education, personal growth, and self-expression. |
Good Will Hunting | Both stories follow a young protagonist with exceptional intelligence and potential who faces personal and professional challenges. They also share a focus on education, mentorship, and personal growth. |
Monster's Ball | Both stories feature a protagonist who experiences a significant loss and must navigate their grief and personal relationships. They also share a focus on love, loss, and redemption. |
Here are different Tropes found in the screenplay
Trope | Trope Details | Trope Explanation |
---|---|---|
The Protagonist's Journey | Elle Woods, the protagonist, goes through a transformation from a fashion merchandising major to a Harvard Law School student to win back her ex-boyfriend. | This is a common trope in romantic comedies where the protagonist undergoes significant changes to achieve their goal, often involving personal growth and self-realization. An example of this trope can be found in 'Julie & Julia' (2009), where Julie Powell transforms from an unfulfilled administrative assistant to a successful food blogger. |
Love Triangle | Elle Woods is caught in a love triangle between her ex-boyfriend Warner and her new love interest Emmett. | A love triangle is a common trope in romantic comedies and dramas where a character has to choose between two romantic interests. An example of this trope can be found in 'Pride and Prejudice' (2005), where Elizabeth Bennet has to choose between Mr. Darcy and Mr. Wickham. |
The Makeover | Elle Woods undergoes a makeover to fit in at Harvard Law School, trading her pink outfits for conservative suits. | The makeover is a common trope in romantic comedies where the protagonist changes their appearance to fit in or attract a romantic interest. An example of this trope can be found in 'She's All That' (1999), where Laney Boggs undergoes a makeover to win the heart of Zack Siler. |
The Mentor | Professor Stromwell and Emmett serve as mentors to Elle Woods, guiding her through her journey at Harvard Law School. | The mentor is a common trope in coming-of-age stories and adventures, where an experienced character guides the protagonist through their journey. An example of this trope can be found in 'The Karate Kid' (1984), where Mr. Miyagi serves as a mentor to Daniel LaRusso. |
The Bet | A group of students bet on how long Elle Woods will last at Harvard Law School. | The bet is a common trope in underdog stories, where a character is underestimated by their peers and has to prove themselves. An example of this trope can be found in 'Back to the Future' (1985), where Biff Tannen bets George McFly that he can't date Lorraine Baines. |
The Rival | Sarah, Warner's fiancée, serves as a rival to Elle Woods throughout the film. | The rival is a common trope in romantic comedies and adventures, where a character competes with another character for a goal or a romantic interest. An example of this trope can be found in 'Mean Girls' (2004), where Cady Heron competes with Regina George for the title of Spring Fling Queen. |
The Transformation | Elle Woods transforms from a fashion merchandising major to a successful lawyer. | The transformation is a common trope in coming-of-age stories and adventures, where a character undergoes significant changes to achieve their goals. An example of this trope can be found in 'My Fair Lady' (1964), where Eliza Doolittle transforms from a flower girl to a lady. |
The Break-Up | Elle Woods breaks up with her ex-boyfriend Warner and moves on with her life. | The break-up is a common trope in romantic comedies and dramas, where a character ends a relationship and pursues a new path. An example of this trope can be found in 'Eat Pray Love' (2010), where Elizabeth Gilbert breaks up with her husband and travels the world. |
The Fish Out of Water | Elle Woods feels out of place at Harvard Law School, struggling to fit in with her peers. | The fish out of water is a common trope in comedies and adventures, where a character finds themselves in a new environment and struggles to adapt. An example of this trope can be found in 'Legally Blonde' (2001), where Elle Woods struggles to fit in at Harvard Law School. |
The Underdog | Elle Woods, a fashion merchandising major, defies expectations and becomes a successful lawyer. | The underdog is a common trope in coming-of-age stories and adventures, where a character overcomes obstacles and achieves their goals despite the odds. An example of this trope can be found in 'Rocky' (1976), where Rocky Balboa, a small-time boxer, gets a shot at the heavyweight championship. |
Theme | Theme Details | Themee Explanation | ||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Personal Growth | Elle's journey from a fashion merchandising major to a law student, her determination to get into Harvard Law School, and her transformation into a successful lawyer show her personal growth. | The screenplay focuses on the main character's development and transformation, highlighting her determination, resilience, and ability to overcome challenges. | ||||||||||||
Strengthening Personal Growth:
| ||||||||||||||
Love and Relationships | The story revolves around Elle's relationship with Warner, her ex-boyfriend, and her interactions with other characters like Emmett, Paulette, and her friends. These relationships shape her character and influence her decisions. | Love and relationships are significant themes in the screenplay, illustrating the importance of human connections and the impact they have on our lives. | ||||||||||||
Female Empowerment | Elle's journey to becoming a successful lawyer, her fight against discrimination, and her support for other women show the theme of female empowerment. | The screenplay emphasizes the power of women, their ability to succeed in male-dominated fields, and the importance of supporting one another. |
Screenwriting Resources on Themes
Articles
Site | Description |
---|---|
Studio Binder | Movie Themes: Examples of Common Themes for Screenwriters |
Coverfly | Improving your Screenplay's theme |
John August | Writing from Theme |
YouTube Videos
Title | Description |
---|---|
Story, Plot, Genre, Theme - Screenwriting Basics | Screenwriting basics - beginner video |
What is theme | Discussion on ways to layer theme into a screenplay. |
Thematic Mistakes You're Making in Your Script | Common Theme mistakes and Philosophical Conflicts |
Voice Analysis | |
---|---|
Summary: | The writer's voice is witty, satirical, and uses humor to address serious themes. The dialogue is sharp and the scenes transition smoothly between comedic and dramatic moments. |
Voice Contribution | The writer's voice contributes to the script by adding depth and complexity to the characters and themes, highlighting the contrast between superficial beauty standards and genuine ambition. |
Best Representation Scene | 17 - Elle's Night of Exclusion and Rejection |
Best Scene Explanation | This scene is the best representation of the writer's voice because it effectively blends humor, drama, and social commentary in a compelling and engaging way. |
- Overall originality score: 8
- Overall originality explanation: The screenplay demonstrates a high level of originality through its unique characters, fresh perspectives on familiar themes, and unconventional narrative choices. The protagonist, Elle Woods, is a relatable and engaging character who challenges stereotypes and subverts expectations. The scenes are well-crafted, with authentic dialogue and visual storytelling that enhance the overall originality of the screenplay.
- Most unique situations: The most unique situations in the screenplay include Elle's pursuit of legal knowledge in a sorority setting, her interactions with Dylan McDermott, and the 'Come as Your Favorite Defendant' party. These situations add depth and complexity to the narrative, making it stand out from other legal dramas.
- Overall unpredictability score: 7
- Overall unpredictability explanation: The screenplay is generally unpredictable, with unexpected twists and turns that keep the audience engaged. The characters' actions and dialogue feel authentic and relatable, adding to the overall unpredictability of the narrative. However, some plot points are predictable and could benefit from further development to maintain the audience's interest.
Goals and Philosophical Conflict | |
---|---|
internal Goals | The protagonist, Elle Woods, evolves from seeking validation and acceptance from others to proving her worth and intelligence in a competitive environment. |
External Goals | Elle's external goals evolve from preparing for a potential engagement to excelling in law school and defending her client in court. |
Philosophical Conflict | The overarching philosophical conflict in 'Legally Blonde' is Elle's belief in authenticity and self-worth versus societal expectations and judgments based on appearance. |
Character Development Contribution: The goals and conflict contribute to Elle's growth from a superficial, appearance-focused individual to a confident, intelligent, and determined lawyer who values authenticity and self-worth.
Narrative Structure Contribution: The goals and conflict drive the narrative forward by creating tension, conflict, and character development within Elle's journey from a heartbroken fashion major to a successful law student and defender of justice.
Thematic Depth Contribution: The goals and conflict deepen the thematic exploration of authenticity, self-worth, societal expectations, and the importance of staying true to oneself in the face of judgment and stereotypes.
Screenwriting Resources on Goals and Philosophical Conflict
Articles
Site | Description |
---|---|
Creative Screenwriting | How Important Is A Character’s Goal? |
Studio Binder | What is Conflict in a Story? A Quick Reminder of the Purpose of Conflict |
YouTube Videos
Title | Description |
---|---|
How I Build a Story's Philosophical Conflict | How do you build philosophical conflict into your story? Where do you start? And how do you develop it into your characters and their external actions. Today I’m going to break this all down and make it fully clear in this episode. |
Endings: The Good, the Bad, and the Insanely Great | By Michael Arndt: I put this lecture together in 2006, when I started work at Pixar on Toy Story 3. It looks at how to write an "insanely great" ending, using Star Wars, The Graduate, and Little Miss Sunshine as examples. 90 minutes |
Tips for Writing Effective Character Goals | By Jessica Brody (Save the Cat!): Writing character goals is one of the most important jobs of any novelist. But are your character's goals...mushy? |
- Physical environment: The physical environment in the screenplay is primarily set in a college campus, specifically at USC and Harvard Law School, with various locations including sorority houses, dorm rooms, classrooms, law libraries, courthouses, and social events. There are also scenes in a beauty salon, a spa, and a suburban backyard.
- Culture: The cultural elements in the screenplay revolve around legal education, sorority life, and societal expectations of success. There is also a focus on beauty, fashion, and relationships, with characters often discussing their appearances and social status.
- Society: The societal structure in the screenplay is hierarchical, with a strong emphasis on academic achievement, particularly in prestigious institutions like Harvard Law School. There are also power dynamics present in relationships, both romantic and professional.
- Technology: The technological elements in the screenplay are minimal, with the occasional use of laptops, cell phones, and a video camera. The focus is more on the characters' interactions and experiences rather than advanced technology.
- Characters influence: The unique physical environment, culture, society, and technology shape the characters' experiences and actions by creating a sense of pressure and competition, particularly in the academic setting. Characters are often influenced by societal expectations and their desire to succeed, leading them to make choices that reflect their ambitions and values.
- Narrative contribution: The world elements contribute to the narrative by providing a backdrop for the characters' personal and professional growth. The college campus and legal setting create a high-stakes environment where characters must navigate challenges and make important decisions that impact their futures.
- Thematic depth contribution: The world elements contribute to the thematic depth of the screenplay by exploring themes of ambition, identity, and societal expectations. Characters must confront their own values and beliefs as they navigate the complexities of academia, relationships, and personal growth.
central conflict
The central conflict is Elle Woods' journey to prove herself as a capable law student and win back her ex-boyfriend Warner, who is engaged to someone else and doesn't believe in Elle's abilities.
primary motivations
- Elle's desire to win back Warner and show him her worth
- Elle's ambition to succeed in law school and become a lawyer
catalysts
- Warner breaking up with Elle
- Elle's friends supporting and encouraging her to apply to Harvard Law School
- Elle's encounters with various law professors and students at Harvard
barriers
- Elle's lack of experience and knowledge in law
- Warner and his fiancée Sarah's skepticism about Elle's abilities
- Elle's struggle to balance her personal life and law school responsibilities
themes
- Empowerment and self-discovery
- Overcoming stereotypes and prejudices
- The importance of friendship and support
stakes
Elle's self-worth, her relationship with Warner, and her future career as a lawyer
uniqueness factor
The story combines romantic comedy, legal drama, and comedy genres, with a strong, relatable female lead who challenges societal expectations and stereotypes
audience hook
The audience is engaged by Elle's relatable struggles, her growth as a character, and the entertaining and humorous situations she encounters throughout the story
paradoxical engine or bisociation
The paradoxical engine lies in the combination of a seemingly light-hearted, comedic story with a more serious and challenging legal drama, creating a unique and engaging narrative
paradoxical engine or bisociation 2
Another bisociation aspect is the contrast between Elle's seemingly superficial and shallow background in fashion and her determination and intelligence in pursuing a law degree
Pass / Consider / Recommend
The reasons might be more valuable than the rating.
Recommend
Executive Summary
The screenplay for 'Legally Blonde' is a well-written and engaging piece with a strong central character, compelling narrative, and effective use of humor. While there are a few areas where improvements could be made, such as providing more depth to certain character motivations and smoothing out transitions between scenes, the screenplay overall delivers on its promise of a fun, heartwarming, and empowering story. Elle Woods' journey of self-discovery and growth is expertly crafted, and the screenplay provides ample opportunities for memorable and impactful scenes that showcase her determination, wit, and resilience.
- Scene 1: Introduces Elle Woods as a determined and ambitious character, effectively establishes the setting and tone of the movie.
- Scene 7: Provides insights into Elle's character and motivations through her admissions essay and interactions with others.
- Scene 17: Introduces the main conflict in a compelling way: Warner Humphrey dismisses Elle Woods as not smart enough to secure a prestigious internship.
- Scene 19: Cleverly uses humor to highlight Elle's resilience and determination to prove herself.
- Scene 21: Elle's victory is both a personal and professional triumph; Elle's argument is well-reasoned and persuasive.
- Scene 13: Could provide more context about Elle's current emotional state and her motivations for attending law school.
- Scene 24: The transition from Elle flirting with the UPS Guy to teaching the 'Bend & Snap' maneuver could be smoother to enhance the flow of the scene.
- Scene 28: The transition from Chutney's testimony to Enrique's testimony could be smoother to enhance the flow of the scene.
- Scene 3: The scene could be more concise and to the point.
- Scene 12: Could provide more context about the subject matter jurisdiction case being discussed.
- Scene 2: Introduces Elle's character as a fashion-conscious, confident, and ambitious individual.
- Scene 6: Provides background information on Elle's previous relationship with Warner and her determination to win him back.
- Scene 20: Elle Woods' growth and empowerment throughout the screenplay is effectively showcased.
- Scene 25: The scene effectively introduces Mrs. Windham Vandermark, who provides valuable information about Brooke and Heyworth's relationship.
- Scene 27: The dialogue between Emmett and Elle is engaging and reveals their dynamic relationship.
Memorable lines in the script:
Scene Number | Line |
---|---|
25 | Elle: Exercise gives you endorphins, endorphins make you happy — happy people don't kill their husbands! |
10 | Sapphire: What, like it's that hard? |
31 | ELLE: You're an attractive man, but you need to take better care of yourself. |
32 | Elle: Forget it. I've already spent too many hours crying over you. |
12 | Professor Stromwell: The law leaves much room for interpretation — but very little for self-doubt. |