Must-Watch Movies for Young Professionals: Girl Power Edition
Orig. Published 3/08/2015
Happy International Womyn’s (Women’s) Day!
Movies are a one the best mediums for idea consumption — besides books, of course. Most of these films are not “cinematic genius,” but they will definitely warm your heart. Each of these lovable protagonists teach us a valuable lesson in ambition, fearlessness and general fabulosity! Check out these essential films for the young professional woman.
5 Must-Watch Movies for Young Professionals: Girl Power Edition
Legally Blonde
Elle Woods’ only focus in life was marital mergers and acquisitions! So you can image her shock when her biggest deal fell through. After losing her longtime boyfriend and a vintage Harry Winston engagement ring, Elle was determined to get back what belonged to her. She devised a plan to get accepted into Harvard Law School and win back the love of her life. Little did she know that what lie ahead was a new found sense of self.
Legally Blonde teaches us that we can achieve anything despite stereotypes. In fact, by pursing our passions we can be lead on a path to much greater rewards. All we have to do is stay true to ourselves. Talk about blind, or should I say, “blonde”, ambition!
The Devil Wears Prada
Meryl Streep shines as Miranda Priestly in this classic chick-flick. The Devil Wears Prada chronicles the journey of a recent Northwestern journalism grad as she struggles to find a job in publishing. She manages to land a job as the second assistant to the devilish editor-in-chief of a top fashion magazine. The problem is that she has “no sense of fashion.” After working hard to learn the ropes, Andy Saks (Anne Hathaway) must decide if the person she has become is the person she wants to be.
This film is a great example of what it means to struggle to find ourselves, be a success and have a work-life balance. We can’t all be Miranda Priestly, but we must make that decision on our own.
Funny Face
Funny Face follows the story of a young, bookish, hipster shopgirl (Audrey Hepburn) who accidentally gets discovered as a model by a photographer/playboy (Fred Astaire). Suddenly her life changes as she is whisked away to Paris as the new “it” girl. Jo (Hepburn) finds that her new life and her old philosophical ideals don’t mix. More about romance than finance, this upbeat jaunt is fit for those interested in classic films sprinkled with old-fashioned musical numbers.
This film teaches us to be open to new people, places and things! You’re life can be changed in an instant by stepping outside of your comfort zone. So, just go for it!
Working Girl
After her Wellesley-educated boss becomes injured, Tess McGill (Melanie Griffin) finds out that her idea for a new merger has been stolen. In order to make things right, this temp impersonates her boss to climb the corporate ladder and get her “just desserts.”
This movie teaches us not to take things lying down. No matter what your position is in a company you deserve respect and to have your ideas be heard.
Erin Brockovich
Based on the true story of Erin Brockovich, a tough talking scantily-clad legal assistant who heads up a landmark case between PG&E and the residents of Hinkley, CA. This film focuses on her struggle as a single mother to initially gain employment while being herself and ultimately ends with her fighting for justice.
Erin Brockovich proves that education isn’t everything. The film teaches us that if you know your worth, get results and maintain your integrity you can go very far.