Framing Feminism: A Dual Lens of Radical and Liberal Feminism in ‘Erin Brockovich’

This paper examines the representation of feminist jurisprudence in Susannah Grant’s Erin Brockovich, utilizing both radical and liberal feminist frameworks to analyse the protagonist's journey. The film portrays Erin, a single mother and legal assistant, as she navigates the complexities of a corporate scandal involving environmental contamination. From a liberal feminist perspective, Erin’s determination and individual agency illustrate the potential for women to reclaim their identities and assert their rights within patriarchal structures. Conversely, a radical feminist lens reveals the systemic oppression and societal expectations that undermine her credibility and autonomy. Key scenes, including courtroom dynamics and interpersonal relationships, highlight the tension between individual empowerment and structural inequality. Ultimately, this analysis underscores the necessity of addressing both personal and systemic challenges in the pursuit of gender justice, illustrating how Erin Brockovich serves as a compelling case study for feminist jurisprudential discourse.