I had a moment a couple of weeks ago where I felt like I just had to watch a movie from the mid 2000s—a movie right before the transition to “modern” movies, but seemingly right after post-90s genius. Naturally, I immediately gravitated towards She’s the Man, in my opinion the peak of Amanda Bynes’ career. In watching the movie (and reciting almost every single line), I realized that there are some lessons that She’s the Man teaches its viewers.
1. Chew like you have a secret
I really can’t help but laugh at this entire situation. As someone who never went through Cotillion or any kind of etiquette class, I can’t speak to the pain that one suffers when someone tells you, “Chew like you have a secret.” While etiquette can often be perceived as antiquated, I think this is still a very useful tip. Although this entire scene was absolutely hilarious, you can’t deny that you never want to look like Viola Hastings eating a drumstick.
2. Tampons have multiple uses
This is probably my favorite lesson from She’s the Man. I definitely use the phrase “It absorbs right up” way too often for my own good. The fact that Viola comes up with Tampons as a remedy for nose bleeds is absolutely ingenious, and I can’t deny that when I finally get a nosebleed this is the first thing I will try.
3. Heels had to be invented by men
There are no two ways about it. No sane person would have invented heels for their own gender (because that would mean they would have to wear them). If you have ever tried to run in heels (and if you haven’t, don’t, you’ll break your ankle) you can’t deny the truth in Viola’s statement.
4. Women are just as good at sports as men
This movie is all about female empowerment in sports. Men may be more physically capable than women biologically, but talent is all about hard work and perseverance, and if Amanda Bynes shows us anything in this movie, it’s that no one can tell you that you aren’t good enough just because you are a girl.
5. The girl who stands up for herself gets the guy in the end
Channing Tatum is definitely one of the best parts of this movie. But it is important to recognize that he is not ultimately won over by the hottest girl in school. Although he was hurt by Viola, in the end he was impressed with her dedication and perseverance. To say the least, Viola isn’t conventional, and because she isn’t afraid to be herself, Duke is able to embrace her for exactly who she is.
Photo Sources:
http://www.fanpop.com/clubs/shes-the-man/images/16304180/title/stills-photo
http://wifflegif.com/tags/28898-viola-hastings-gifs
http://www.fanpop.com/clubs/shes-the-man/images/2253106/title/shes-man-photo