Stereotypes have been a part of everyone 's lives that we have become immune to its effects on others. Stereotypes make us ignore differences between individuals, allowing us to think things about people that might not be true. Television and film enter every home and affects those who watch it. What we see can influence how we act towards others that are different race or gender. Many common stereotypes are based on the gender or race of a character, some common examples can be seen in Mrs. Doubtfire, Legally Blonde, Fresh Prince of Bel Air, and Mean Girls.
In the film Mrs. Doubtfire, released in 1993, the character Daniel Hillard and his wife Miranda decide to get a divorce, and because Daniel had previously lost his job the judge decided
…show more content…
She is shown with “feminine traits” such as compassion, sweetness, and vulnerability. On the other hand, her boyfriend is depicted as a strong, handsome, smart man who the audience does not question about getting into Harvard. When Elle applies to Harvard to be with her boyfriend she sends in a video of her at the pool talking about soap operas, showing she is uneducated, yet the board members, who are all white males, decide to accept her because she is an attractive young blonde girl. Yet, because this movie is a comedy it is supposed to be funny that women with Elle’s background and looks could even get into Harvard. The film enhances her stupidity when they comment on how her resume is printed on pink scented paper and of others always reminding her that she does not belong at the school. In the final scene, Elle uses her knowledge of hair care to solve the murder case, something a man could have overlooked. The movie makes a point that women can succeed where men can by advantages that make them girls. The stereotype of blondes being dumb is seen throughout the movie which can influence one’s opinion of all blonde