Prime Video’s Space Cadet Continues a Feminist Trend from 2001

Prime Video's Space Cadet Continues a Feminist Trend from 2001

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  • Elle Woods vs. Rex Simpson
  • The Stakes Are Higher
  • Passion, Determination, and Empowerment

As a young woman growing up, I have always been inspired by strong and empowered female characters who defied expectations and followed their dreams against all odds. Two such characters that have left a profound impact on me are Elle Woods from “Legally Blonde” and Rex Mansfield from the recent release “Space Cadet.”


As a longtime fan of science fiction and comedy, I’m always on the lookout for new and innovative shows that blend these genres in unique ways. So when I heard that Prime Video had added a new sci-fi comedy called “Space Cadet” to its inventory, I was intrigued.

As a big fan of “Space Cadet,” I can’t help but be drawn into the story of Rex Simpson, the Florida party girl with a hidden dream. But just like Elle Woods from “Legally Blonde,” Rex has lost sight of her biggest aspiration. However, an unexpected conversation ignites a spark within her, and before she knows it, she’s on a mission to become an astronaut. The only hitch? Her entry into the NASA astronaut training program is built on a completely fabricated resume. I can’t help but see parallels between Rex and Elle, who, in “Legally Blonde,” follows her ex-boyfriend to law school and discovers an unexpected talent for the subject. Both women possess unique traits, and there’s no denying their similarities.

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Elle Woods vs. Rex Simpson

Prime Video's Space Cadet Continues a Feminist Trend from 2001Prime Video's Space Cadet Continues a Feminist Trend from 2001

It’s worth noting that Elle and Rex have significantly distinct pasts. Initially, Elle is deeply in love with her boyfriend who ends their relationship, labeling her as “not smart enough” for him. Frankly speaking, he wasn’t an ideal partner to begin with. Nevertheless, Elle’s resolve doesn’t falter; she sets her sights on winning him back by enrolling at Harvard Law School – the very place where he’ll be studying.

While her boyfriend continued to behave poorly, Elle thrived in all her classes and unearthed a hidden gift and enthusiasm within herself. Her unique personality shines through, making her both enchanting and motivating. Rather than altering herself to appease mean-spirited remarks, she proudly embraces her individuality. Consequently, the upcoming Legally Blonde prequel series is expected to delve into the experiences that molded Elle into the captivating character fans fell in love with in the 2001 film.

Just as Rex is known for her distinctive traits, she is a Florida party girl and bartender by nature. However, there’s another side to her that not everyone is aware of. She harbors a deep-rooted fascination with science and inventions, consistently generating fresh concepts and innovations. Despite her bubbly demeanor and eccentricities, she has faced similar misconceptions, being perceived as just another stereotypical girl who lacks social awareness and is unpredictable. Reminiscent of Elle, Rex has had to confront such prejudices head-on. Both characters undergo a comparable journey, with female empowerment taking the spotlight.

The Stakes Are Higher

Prime Video's Space Cadet Continues a Feminist Trend from 2001Prime Video's Space Cadet Continues a Feminist Trend from 2001

Instead of “Compared to Elle’s endeavors of becoming a lawyer, Rex’s are significantly more problematic,” you could say “Rex’s efforts to become a lawyer face greater challenges than Elle’s in the film.” While Elle’s intelligence and distinct personality are showcased, the questionable actions are downplayed. One issue is Elle’s falsified resume, which she unwittingly relied on her best friend to create. However, they both made things worse by continuing to deceive people and potentially putting them in harm’s way. An alarming example of this is when Elle is called upon to pilot a plane, even though she has no backup support. Despite the potential danger, she maintains the charade.

Instead of Rex’s questionable actions, which put innocent people in harm’s way out of her strong desire to achieve her goal, Elle comes across as less complicated. Although following her ex-boyfriend to his university might seem excessive, she is determined to solve the case and advance her education. Both women take significant risks, but Rex’s actions, such as attending astronaut training with a false resume, are clearly illegal. However, in the movie “Space Cadet,” it is Rex’s portrayal as a bold, self-reliant woman who overcomes obstacles that matters most. Elle Woods was the trailblazer for this character type.

Passion, Determination, and Empowerment

Prime Video's Space Cadet Continues a Feminist Trend from 2001Prime Video's Space Cadet Continues a Feminist Trend from 2001

Without a shadow of a doubt, feminist films hold significant worth for young girls and women by providing inspiration and motivation. Elle Woods’ journey towards law school has ignited the aspirations of countless women, while Rex’s tale may bring about a similar effect.

Elle, for one, spends months on end diving into textbooks, constantly studying in order to be accepted to Harvard, and her acceptance is a much-needed reminder that sometimes hard work really does pay off. She embraces her feminity in all its beauty and highlights the underlying message that women, regardless of where they are from, what they have been through, or what they look like, enter a room like a powerful and inspiring wave. Elle surely captures the attention of many due to her appearance, but what truly reflects her inner self is how she holds herself in a room full of men with expectations. She shows her confidence and power, reminding them that a dedicated woman is a force to be reckoned with.

Rex’s story resonates deeply with us as she once had an extraordinary dream that seemed unattainable, but despite the numerous obstacles life threw at her, she eventually let go of it. Many people can relate to this feeling of being derailed by life’s challenges. However, what sets Rex apart is her determination to reclaim her goal. When she refocuses on her ambition, she becomes completely committed and regains her confidence in her abilities. This empowering mindset shows a determined woman pursuing her passion, even if others may label it as delusional.

What stands out above all is the fact that both of these women step into their own power. They realize that they don’t need a man by their side in order to feel fulfilled. Elle realizes that she deserves a boyfriend who treats her kindly and sees her as a worthy equal, while Rex comes to the conclusion that she doesn’t have to prove anything to anyone. A conversation with her high school friend, Toddrick, who has founded his own space travel company, sparked her motivation to reconnect with her dream, but, at the end of the day, he becomes aware that genuine relationships based on honesty and equality are much more valuable than those which are merely about comparison.

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2024-07-20 21:31