Julia Roberts gives a spectacular performance as the edgy, plain-talking Erin Brockovich, a sassy single mother who becomes the unlikely heroine in a lawsuit against a major American utilities company.
While working as a file clerk in a small law firm, Erin stumbles upon a cover-up involving contaminated water in a nearby town. Through sheer determination, she convinces her boss to investigate, and in the process, uncovers the culprit. Although the local citizens are initially leery of becoming involved, Erin’s brash manner and ability to speak to them clearly earns their trust. With over 600 plaintiffs signed up, the trial results in the largest settlement ever paid in a direct-action suit.