25 Years Ago, This Was the Only Legal Drama Everybody Was Talking About

It’s safe to say that legal drama is one of the beloved genres, and it doesn't matter whether we are talking about TV shows or full-length movies. The high-stakes twists, the never-ending suspense and the bold characters, ready to tear down empires in order to find the truth.

We have our share of new legal dramas, but the one that we want to talk about now is a particular 25-year old gem with Julia Roberts called Erin Brockovich. In 2000 this movie took the world by storm, becoming one of the most talked-about legal dramas of its time.

The film, directed by Steven Soderbergh and starring Julia Roberts in an Oscar-winning performance, is based on the true story of a legal assistant who took on one of America's largest utility companies, Pacific Gas and Electric, over its role in contaminating local water supplies with toxic chromium-6.

What makes the movie a real standout is that it wasn't yet another courtroom thriller. Erin Brockovich tells a story of justice, perseverance, and a fight for ordinary people against a corporate giant.

The film's release resonated with audiences not only for its non-mainstream plot, but also for its depiction of a real and relatable hero who has her own flaws. Julia Roberts, in her portrayal of Erin, brought an authenticity to the character that combined strength with vulnerability. That’s why the role earned her the Academy Award for Best Actress.

“Erin Brockovich is the perfect comfort movie. Peak Steven Soderbergh/Julia Roberts. Perfect script. Perfect 90's piano soundtrack. Funny, stylish, heartbreaking, heartwarming. Perfect ending. Whatever the merits of it as a true story, it's a wonderful movie. Possibly my favourite,” one Redditor said.

But the film's success wasn't all about critical acclaim, though it does have an 85% score on Tomatometer. The real victory is that it brought attention to the issues of environmental justice and corporate malfeasance. Erin Brockovich became a cultural reference point, inspiring many with its message that ordinary individuals can take on powerful entities and win.

Erin Brockovich is available to stream on many platforms, including Netflix and AppleTV+.