Entertainment

11 Movies Every Law Student Should See

by Chloe Kent

March 13, 2016

Hey! You, over there in the library, poring over those memos, totally killing the game. You may be busy studying the law and learning how to be a badass lawyer, but even attorneys-in-training need a few breaks now and then — which is why I'm suggesting plenty of law-centric movies you should watch and enjoy. Some of these films are comedies (Legally Blonde, hello), while others are hard-hitting dramas, but all of them are the perfect movies to see if you're a law student or, for that matter, just a regular person who loves watching courtroom-set films.

Law school (and any grad school, really) might be a crazy busy time full of difficult tests and major challenges, but please allow me to momentarily distract you from your legal endeavors by offering you the following movie recommendations. The 11 films below are ones you should be watching when you aren't sleeping, drinking far too much Red Bull, or, you know, studying the law. So close those books for a few hours and turn on the TV, because trust me, you'll want to get started.

1. The Paper Chase

It's a good way to deal with your own anxiety over the Socratic method.

Stream The Paper Chase here.

2. 12 Angry Men

And lest we forget: There's also the Inside Amy Schumer version for your perusal.

Stream 12 Angry Men here.

3. Erin Brokovich

I swear that scene could make anyone want to study law.

Stream Erin Brokovich here.

4. To Kill A Mockingbird

Way to cross-examine, Mr. Finch.

Stream To Kill A Mockingbird here.

5. Philadelphia

The perfect law movie, especially for a Denzel Washington fan.

Stream Philadelphia here.

6. Legally Blonde

"I worked so hard to get into law school. I blew off Greek week to study for the LSATs. I even hired a Coppola to direct my admissions video." Elle Woods is the best.

Stream Legally Blonde here.