Why You Should Add Olive Oil to Your Lemonade

Nicole Briese
Sep 27, 2017

Whether you used it for dipping bread or cook with it on the reg, you’re likely familiar with olive oil. But for most Americans, it’s not a staple in our diets, and we’ve got a long way to go when it comes to learning how to best use it to our benefit.

According to 2015 stats from the International Olive Oil Council, Americans used just one liter of olive oil per year in comparison to the 12.5 liters Greeks used, or the 11.5 and 9.3 liters consumed by people Spain and Italy, respectively. “Americans were raised on canola and vegetable oil,” Larissa Iracheta, director of quality for Deoleo (the company handling production for such olive oil heavyweights as Bertolli and Carapelli), tells us. “They don’t know anything else.”

To prove just how versatile the healthy fat is, we looked to the seasoned pros, AKA Europeans, for inspiration. Here, three tips to keep in mind when incorporating olive oil into our diets.

OLIVE OIL CAN BE USED ON JUST ABOUT ANYTHING… AND WE DO MEAN *ANYTHING*

Think outside the salad bowl or cooking pan. Iracheta says Europeans actually use olive oil more like a condiment, adding it to dishes for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and dessert. Liberal portions are poured over foods we would never think to add it to — salted ice cream or cooked steak, for instance. It’s also drizzled in soups and spread on toast, drizzled over salmon, and mixed into beverages, including cocktails, orange juice, and lemonade, to give drinks a creamier taste. For Iracheta, the most surprising use she’s seen was when she witnessed it being added to ice cubes to flavor water.

There’s also another group entirely that uses the oil for beauty purposes: In addition to the countless scrubs you may have encountered with olive oil listed as an ingredient, Iracheta places a bit into her shampoo to give her locks a healthy luster and says she’s also seen it used as a makeup remover.

OLIVE OIL HAS HEALTH BENEFITS BEYOND YOUR WILDEST DREAMS

For Joanne Lacina, president and founder of e-commerce site Olive Oil Lovers, seeing plenty of “skinny” Europeans around her consuming olive oil without restraint was an eye-opening experience. “It’s just not part of our American culture,” she explains. “[I think Americans] are still a little bit hung up on [the idea] that it will make you fat if you eat too much.”

However, olive oil, which is considered a healthy, or monosaturated fat, has been credited with everything from reducing Type 2 diabetes and preventing strokes to fighting depression, osteoporosis, and certain kinds of cancer. In 2005, the FDA even supported a claim that olive oil may reduce coronary heart disease when replacing a similar amount of saturated fat and not increasing your calorie count.

Its secret lies in its polyphenols, an anti-oxidant that protect your cells from damage. It also has anti-inflammatory properties, including oleocanthal, which works similarly to ibuprofen. And it’s plenty good for your mind: A recent study in the Journal of Molecular Biology showed oleic acid, olive oil’s main fatty acid, as an aid to the suppression of brain tumor molecules grown in a lab. Another found that extra virgin olive oil can help to protect the brain from the toxic substances which lead to Alzheimer’s disease. Whoa.

NOT ALL OLIVE OIL IS CREATED EQUAL

Of course, not all olive oil offers the same taste or benefits. Unlike refined or “light” oils, which are generally tasteless and colorless, or pure olive oil, which mixes refined olive oil and extra virgin olive oil together, extra virgin olive oil is cold-pressed, meaning it has not been touched by any chemicals or heat, leaving much of its anti-oxidents, nutrients, and original flavor intact. That flavor can vary, however, by country of origin, olive types, and even surrounding environments where a crop is grown. As Iracheta explains, if a crop is grown in Tunisia, for instance, it’s likely to take on an almond flavor, as many almond crops are grown nearby. Spain, by contrast, might have hints of tomatoes.

An olive oil’s label can also give you many clues about its quality. Though the two experts differ in their opinion of blended oils — Lacina prefers hers to come from a single-source producer while Iracheta enjoys blending different types to create “something magical,” such as the multi-regional blend used in Bertolli’s Organic Extra-Virgin Olive Oil — both women recommend seeking out an oil’s country of origin, region, and its harvest date. Unlike wine, Lacina says, “You always want to buy something from the most recent harvest,” which occurs in the fall.

In fact, the more information on the label, the better. “Anybody [who’s] making a really good oil is going to want to brag about it [and put] as much information on the label as they can,” she shared.

How do you use olive oil? Share with us @BritandCo.

(Photos via Bertolli, and Getty)

Foodies: Bookmark These Most-Photographed Restaurants For Your Next Meal

Yelp just dropped their list of the top 25 most-photographed restaurants of 2024, and it has us drooling for a fancy, pic-worthy meal. If you’re always the first one to whip out your phone for a quick picture once any kind of food arrives at your table, you’re definitely gonna want to try out these places. Therestaurants span over a wide range of cuisines, from Chinese to Mexican and Thaito barbecue(all vetted by actual Yelp diners), so you’re sure to find a foodie-friendly spot that’s perfect for your next night out. Check out the full list below!

Nep Cafe by Kei Concepts

1. Nep Cafe by Kei Concepts

Vietnamese

Located in Irvine, California, Nep Cafe by Kei Concepts serves up some seriously satisfying Vietnamese dishes. From filet mignon to garlic noodles, each of their specialties is presented to perfection. The inside of the restaurant is just as stunning as the food, though you may have a wait – this spot is one of Orange County's busiest restaurants!

Juqi

2. Juqi

Chinese

Juqi brings a true Beijing influence to their first-ever US location in Flushing, New York with a wide range of Chinese dishes. Their Peking duck is hailed as one of the most-photographed meals, since it's carved tableside. They have even more traditional bites to indulge in, like kung pao chicken and mapo tofu.

Gordon Ramsay Hell’s Kitchen

3. Gordon Ramsay Hell’s Kitchen

American

Vegas is the place to be if you're a foodie, and Gordon Ramsay's Hell's Kitchen is not one to miss. Of course, the celebrity factor is a huge draw to this Las Vegas-based restaurant, but signature dishes like the succulent beef wellington and tasty lobster risotto will really steal the show. The interior of the restaurant is modern, lively, and vibey.

X-FISH Izakaya

4. X-FISH Izakaya

Sushi

Landing the #4 spot is X-FISH Izakaya, located in Buena Park, California. You really can't ever go wrong with sushi, as it's always stunning on the plate. This spot's $55 all-you-can-eat omakase is an absolute staple on their menu, offering a delicious array of sushi, sashimi, and 14 pieces of high-quality nigiri. The inside of the restaurant is clean and minimalistic, mirroring the flawless presentation of the food.

Bacchanal Buffet

5. Bacchanal Buffet

Buffet-style

This decadent buffet located in Caesars Palace in Las Vegas, Nevada is insane. They've got all kinds of crab: crab legs (pictured above), king crab, snow crab, and steamed crab. Surf and turf is the name of the game here, as they also serve lobster, pork belly, Korean fried chicken, and lamb chops among other things. Every buffet selection is thoughtfully presented to enhance the whole dining experience. Plus, you'll be surrounded by the classic hustle-and-bustle of Las Vegas since it's located right in the casino-hotel!

La Grande Boucherie

6. La Grande Boucherie

French

Every aspect of La Grande Boucherie in Chicago, Illinois is picturesque. The stained glass art, mosaic floors, and stacked center bar will steal your attention – that is, until you scan the menu. This restaurant serves up a mean steak tartare, Wagyu burger, Macaroni au Gratin, and even more fancy foods that arrive on elegant plates. Don't even get us started on the cocktails!

Chubby Cattle BBQ Rowland Heights

7. Chubby Cattle BBQ Rowland Heights

Korean BBQ

Korean barbecue is naturally photogenic, as you prepare each bite yourself atop a personal grill. The ritual is super fun in itself, and the cozy interior of Chubby Cattle BBQ in Rowland Heights, California only enhances it. This location is furnished with intimate seating, cozy low light, and even a free gaming arcade to enjoy post-meal. Korean BBQ is something we think everyone should experience at least once!

Mama’s Fish House

8. Mama’s Fish House

Hawaiian

If you ever find yourself in Paia, Hawaii, Mama's Fish House is a must. Their fish dishes are caught fresh daily by local fishermen, so you know you're getting the good stuff. Fans of the restaurant have fallen in love with the Tristan Island Lobster Tails for dinner, and the Polynesian Black Pearl (pictured above) for dessert. Yum. The main selling point of this island dining experience is that it sits right along the shore, offering some really serene ocean views.

Konban

9. Konban

Izakaya

This Japanese-Korean fusion joint in New York, New York dishes up some super high-quality and authentic bites, from katsu to udon noodles. The interior of the restaurant is designed with warmth and simplicity in mind, amping up the comfort food to a tee. Devoted diners love the corn ice cream (pictured above), which is cleverly shaped like a corn on the cob and made with oven-roasted corn and white chocolate.

Mikiya Wagyu Shabu House

10. Mikiya Wagyu Shabu House

Japanese Hot Pot

You can choose from three tiers of all-you-can-eat hot pot at this chic spot in Santa Clara, California. Like Korean barbecue, hot pot is really ritualistic and interactive, as you cook your own meats in a simmering pot of flavorful broth right at your table. Mikiya Wagyu Shabu House offers a wide array of Wagyu meats to indulge in, among other decadent dishes like beef tartare, shrimp sashimi, and scallops.

Zippy’s Las Vegas

11. Zippy’s Las Vegas

Hawaiian

Zippy's Hawaiian cuisine touched down in the mainland in Las Vegas, Nevada last year, and it's been loved ever since. The fast-casual spot serves up classic Hawaiian dishes with a Korean twist, such as Korean fried chicken, chili rice, and their signature Zip Pac that includes a little bit of everything: golden fried chicken, a breaded white flaky hoki fish filet, a tender slice of teriyaki marinated beef, and a slice of Spam over rice.

Marugame Udon

12. Marugame Udon

Japanese

This noodle joint in Honolulu, Hawaii allows you to watch as your hearty udon bowl is made. The separate tempura station is totally picture-worthy, too. The Curry Nikutama Udon is Marugame Udon's best-selling dish, which is served with sweet beef and a soft-boiled egg.

Mijo Modern Mexican Restaurant

13. Mijo Modern Mexican Restaurant

Mexican

This Mexican spot in Las Vegas, Nevada serves up dishes inspired by the Mexican coast. It's a real surf and turf show, with offerings that range from lobster enchiladas to birria tacos. The inside is colorful and energetic – you'll find a skeleton mariachi man, neon light art pieces, and intricate chandeliers as you dine.

Prince Dumpling

14. Prince Dumpling

Dim Sum

Prince Dumpling, located in Rosemead, California, is filled with picture-perfect dishes like these pan-fried pork buns, soup dumplings, and dan dan noodles. Though you wouldn't expect it from the outside, the inside is super roomy and boasts a clean, minimalistic design. You'll have tons of fun here, especially because the bustling dumpling kitchen is visible through glass.

Olio e Più

15. Olio e Più

Italian

Your next elegant date night is calling! Italian joint Olio e Più is seated in Chicago, Illinos, and offers up some truly unforgettable meals. The interior is rustic yet polished, plus the lighting is romantically dim. You can order from a large list of different pastas, like this Chitarra Alla Carbonara topped with an egg yolk, Gnocchi Pesto E Pistacchio, and Ravioli Di Carciofi, just to name a few.

Honolulu Seafood Restaurant

16. Honolulu Seafood Restaurant

Dim Sum

This Chinese seafood spot in Honolulu, Hawaii is all about large portions and high-quality food. The dim dum selection is vast and oh-so tasty, but you can also order heartier classics like chow mein noodles, Peking duck, and plenty of plump stuffed buns. The interior is uniquely decorated, plus the seating layout encourages communal eating – bring your friends!

Summer House on the Lake

17. Summer House on the Lake

Pizza

You'll find a little bit of everything at Summer House on the Lake, in Lake Buena Vista, Florida. They've got pizza, sandwiches, pasta, tacos, and more for the main event, then plenty of sweet treats to pick from once dessert o' clock rolls around. This restaurant's Californian influence is undoubtedly seen through not only their dishes, but the inside of the dining room as well. The space is breezy and light, dotted with palm trees, greenery, woven chairs and light fixtures, and striped walls. They even have a whole cookie bar!

Straits Honolulu

18. Straits Honolulu

Asian Fusion

Straits in Honolulu, Hawaii specializes in Southeast Asian cuisine, from katsu platters to noodle dishes. Diners especially love the Crab Garlic Noodles, which are served with a whole crab on a bed of flavorful wok-fried egg noodles. Their unique cocktails are not to be missed, either.

VIDA Cocina & Tequila

19. VIDA Cocina & Tequila

Mexican

This vibey cocina in Altamonte Springs, Florida has tons of delicious Mexican dishes to choose from, like birria tacos and chimichangas. They also have some playful riffs on other cuisines, demonstrated through their fresh Culichi Sushi! The interior of this restaurant is colorful and bold, playing up the greatness of their food. When it's time for a treat, VIDA has quite the selection of tequila and mezcal cocktails, as well as desserts like churros and tres leches cake.

Terry Black’s Barbecue

20. Terry Black’s Barbecue

Barbecue

Terry Black's Barbecue has been a staple in the Austin, Texas area for years, and with over 10,000 photos and 7,000 reviews on Yelp, it's clear to see why. This is true Southern comfort food. Each cut of expertly-cooked pork, beef, and sausage can be paired with a platter of creamy mac and cheese, greens, cream corn, and coleslaw. The interior is fairly no-frills, which only speaks to the sheer greatness of their meats.

Coqodaq

21. Coqodaq

Korean Chicken

Caviar fiends are gonna love this restaurant located in New York, New York. Their signature dish is none other than the Golden Nugget – a breaded chicken nugget topped with a generous serving of caviar. Coqodaq's entire menu is influenced by the art of Korean fried chicken, so you'll be able to find offerings like fried chicken, chicken nuggets, and soy garlic chicken amongst fresh salads and noodle dishes.

Cafe Du Monde

22. Cafe Du Monde

French Cafe

Cafe Du Monde might have a limited menu (it's literally just beignets and coffee), but the New Orleans, Louisiana stop is so worth it. The restaurant's open-air seating arrangement in the French Quarter offers an amazing atmosphere while you chow down on the famous fried pastries (with plenty of powdered sugar, of course).

Southeast Impression

23. Southeast Impression

Thai

This Thai food joint in Fairfax, Virginia serves up a multitude of hearty noodles, soups, and salads. The vibe of the restaurant's interior is nothing short of classy and cool, which only heightens the experience. Diners love the Drunken Noodles, Pineapple Fried Rice, and Hainanese Chicken.

Anchovies & Salt

24. Anchovies & Salt

Vietnamese

This Renton, Washington restaurant has it goin' on. Anchovies & Salt delivers Vietnamese dishes that go way beyond your typical bowl of pho. Banh Mi, crab rolls, and doughy beef-stuffed pillows await you inside a cozy interior.

Nami Kaze

25. Nami Kaze

Japanese

Asian fusion is the name of the game at Nami Kaze in Honolulu, Hawaii. Many of their dishes are brunch-worthy, like the Honey Walnut Shrimp Waffles, Shrimp Eggs Benedict, and Custard French Toast, offering a really unique take on classic brunch fare.

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4 Spring Sneaker Trends Every Shoe Lover Needs To Try In 2025

We’re total sneaker heads over here, so we’re uber excited for what spring has to offer in the shoe department. It appears spring 2025 is brimming with fresh sneakertrends that embrace all things colorful and retro – a power combo! If you’re looking to step up your ‘fits with something a lil’ bit different on your feet, this season’s kicks are anything but basic.

Scroll on to see the 4 sneaker trends set to dominate spring 2025!

1. Pink Sneakers

Urban Outfitters

Gola Elan Sneakers

Pink sneakers are popping off this spring, ranging from pastels to bold, hot pink shades. They’re the perfect sneakers to snag if you’re seeking a seasonal pop of color!

Anthropologie

Puma Palermo Sneakers

For a playful feel, wear hot pink kicks with an all-black outfit to make them stand out. For a more femme look, wear some pastel pink sneakers with light-wash jeans and a flowy white top.

2. Retro Track Sneakers

Onitsuka Tiger

Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66 Sneakers

Inspired by vintage running shoes from the ‘70s and ‘80s, retro track sneakers are definitely on the come-up. Brands are continuing to bring a mix of nostalgia and sporty aesthetics to the forefront, and we couldn’t love it more!

Saucony

Saucony Trainer 80 Sneakers

These sneaks are not only stylish, but practical, too! Seek out a comfy pair with some chic suede detailing or bold color blocking. Whether you pair ‘em with wide-leg trousers for a vintage-inspired outfit or biker shorts for a lax weekend look, a good set of bold retro sneakers will undeniably turn heads your way.

3. Hiking Sneaks For The Street

Keen

Keen Jasper Zionic Sneakers

We’re starting to spot hiking-inspired sneakers on the street more and more. Technical shoe brands like Keen and Salomon have styles that are both functional and fashionable!

Salomon

Salomon XT-6 Sportstyle Sneakers

With rugged soles, durable materials, and utilitarian designs, these shoes provide unmatched comfort, too. To give your ‘fits a sportier vibe, try hiking sneakers with cargo pants and a fitted tank top. For added contrast, certain styles also look ahh-mazing with mini dresses and denim jackets!

4. Sneaker Charms

Free People

Free People Shoe Charm & Pin Pack

Customizing your look is key in 2025 – so sneaker charms let you infuse your kicks with personality! From pearls and pendants to lace and beads, you can truly find sneaker charms of all kinds… or make your own!

Dolce Vita

Dolce Vita Notice Lace Sneakers + Gold Charm Bundle

Shoe charms also work well beyond sneakers. You can easily tack them onto boots or loafers!

Subscribe to our newsletter to shop more seasonal fashion trends!

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5 Dreamy Pieces From The Lisa Says Gah x Fishwife Collection

Tinned fish summer is here! My two favorite brands – Lisa Says Gah!and Fishwife – just revived last year’s famed tomato girl summeraesthetic and spun it on its head. The Aperitivo by the Sea Collection channels coastal vibes in the chicest way.

Filled with 4 perfectly fashion-forward pieces and even a limited-edition Fishwife smoked salmon flavor (with perhaps the cutest packaging I’ve ever seen), this is a collab for the appetizer + Aperol spritz-loving girlies. Scroll on for more details and shop the full collection!

Lisa Says Gah!

Alex Tee x Fishwife

Lisa Says Gah!'s fan-favorite crop top got the Fishwife treatment for the collaboration. The Sardine Tee boasts two adorable tinned fish illustrations along the bust, and I simply have to have it. This piece fits like a baby tee and has a trendy cropped length.

Lisa Says Gah!

Nail Art Stickers x Fishwife

The two brands tapped Danny "Danbo" Miller to create this adorable nail sticker sheet. It features tiny images of various fishes, olives, peppers, lemons, and basically everything you could ever want at a coastal charcuterie party.

Lisa Says Gah!

Fishes Necklace in Silver

This shiny necklace is dotted with silver fish-shaped beads to deliver the ultimate statement accessory. It'd look especially dreamy on the beach!

Lisa Says Gah!

Fishes Bracelet in Silver

Complete the look with this stretchy beaded bracelet. Whether tinned fish is in the equation or not, it'll let everyone know you're riding the wave of the hottest food trend!

Lisa Says Gah!

Lisa Says Gah! x Fishwife Smoked Salmon

The ultimate piece that's a part of the Lisa Says Gah! x Fishwife collection is, of course, the actual tinned fish. This iteration of Fishwife's smoked salmon tins boasts the cutest packaging ever, dotted with colorful foodie illustrations. Their fish is sustainably sourced, canned by a family-run facility, and is free of antibiotics or chemicals. Plus, it's so tasty.

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Daisy Edgar-Jones & Jacob Elordi Get Steamy In New 'On Swift Horses' Teaser Trailer

As far as I'm concerned, 2024 was Daisy Edgar-Jones' year. The Normal People actress captured our hearts with her role as Kate in Twisters (as well as her viral Hot Ones interview with Glen Powell and "Apple" TikTok dance). But while Kate led a pretty adventurous life, her risk threshold is nothing compared to Daisy's newest character, Muriel, in On Swift Horses.

Living in post-Korean War California, Muriel's life with her husband Lee is disrupted when Lee's brother Julius arrives in all his addictive, charming glory. The film, based on Shannon Pufahl's 2019 book of the same name, made its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival on September 7. Here's everything you need to know.

What is On Swift Horses about?

Luc Montpelllier

On Swift Horses Plot

Muriel begins a new life with her husband Lee when he returns to California from the Korean War. But the life they're building together — and their future — changes forever when Lee's brother Julius, a headstrong gambler, arrives. Julius is attractive, charismatic, and hiding plenty of secrets.

According to the official synopsis, "when Julius takes off in search of the young card cheat he’s fallen for, Muriel’s longing for something more propels her into a secret life of her own, gambling on racehorses and exploring a love she never dreamed possible."

Luc Montpelllier

The story explores LGBTQ+ identity and desire in the 1950s, but does so with a hopeful tone rather than a devastating one. “The first scenes that we filmed were the scenes we had together, so we got all of that done with—when we were apart, we had put the groundwork in,” Daisy tells Vanity Fair of working with Jacob, who adds, "I believe Taylor Swift calls it an invisible string.”

"I loved the connection between gambling and risk-taking, and pushing the boundaries of her desire and what she’s looking for,” Daisy adds. “Muriel’s rebellion throughout the film is quite quiet, in the small ways in which she takes back her power by concealing things. A lot of what’s happening is behind closed doors.”

Who's in the cast of On Swift Horses?

Luc Montpelllier

On Swift Horses Cast

On Swift Horses stars Daisy Edgar-Jones, Jacob Elordi, Will Poulter, Sasha Calle, and Diego Calva.

"It's not hard to make chemistry with Jacob because he's just so charismatic," Daisy said during a Q&A, via People, adding that the script "felt almost like reading poetry and so much of what happens is in the subtext."

"This movie is just about love,” Calle added. “It’s important to just feel that — whoever that might be, where that takes you. It’s important to feel that and to feel safe in it.”

Has On Swift Horses been released?

Luc Montpelllier

On Swift Horses Release Date

On Swift Horses premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival on September 7, and is currently looking for a distributor. Check back here for news on its release date!

Watch The Teaser Trailer For 'On Swift Horses'

www.youtube.com

- YouTube

As charming as Julius appears in the teaser trailer, his brother Lee tells Muriel they live differently than he does. "He's just not like us," he says before a scene cuts to Muriel exploring her own "passions." Based on this, On Swift Horses appears to blur the lines of love, lust, secrets, and recognizing one's identity.

Read up on Andrew Garfield and Florence Pugh's We Live In Time, which also premiered at TIFF last year!

Lead image via Robin Marchant/Getty Images

This post has been updated.

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10 "Cringey" Movies From The Early 2000s That Would Never Be Made Today

The 2000s were a wild time for movies. It was an era of debatable fashion, even more questionable humor, and films that, looking back, we can't believe ever made it past a pitch meeting.

While certain movies from this nostalgic period remain classics, others haven't aged very well. Whether they're filled with problematic tropes or outdated stereotypes, here are the 10 cringey 2000s movies that wouldn't stand a chance in Hollywood today.

Scroll to see all the super cringe 2000s movies we wouldn't see today...

Summit Entertainment

1. Twilight (2008)

When Twilight premiered in 2008, it became an instant sensation and sparked a cultural obsession with supernatural romance. However, while it left an undeniable mark on pop culture, this film has some major underlying issues.

Once viewed as swoon-worthy, Bella and Edward's relationship feels problematic in hindsight. He was controlling, exhibited stalker-like behavior, and gaslit her into believing that she imagined his supernatural abilities.

Add in the fact that Edward is technically over a century old when Bella is a high schooler, and it's clear why Twilight might not resonate with audiences the same way in 2025.

Universal Pictures

2. Knocked Up (2007)

Directed by Judd Apatow, Knocked Up was initially well-received despite heavily leaning on outdated gender stereotypes. The movie follows responsible and career-driven Alison, who is forced to navigate an unplanned pregnancy with slacker Ben.

Even though Knocked Up delivers plenty of laughs, it also portrays women, especially Alison, as rigid and joyless. Katherine Heigl, the lead actress, criticized this, too, saying the film "Paints the women as shrews, as humorless and uptight, and it paints the men as lovable, goofy, fun-loving guys."

Dreamworks

3. Norbit (2007)

This movie might've showcased Eddie Murphy's ability to transform into multiple characters, yet Norbit is still more cringeworthy than comedic. The portrayal of Rasputia, an over-the-top and domineering woman whose character is built around fat-shaming jokes, is particularly offensive.

Moreover, Murphy also plays Mr. Wong, a wildly stereotypical caricature of an elderly Chinese man.

20th Century Fox

4. Shallow Hal (2001)

Shallow Hal may have set out to deliver a message about inner beauty, but it really missed the mark. Again, this film relies on fatphobic humor, with Gwyneth Paltrow's character serving as the target of the jokes.

It arguably reinforces stereotypes about weight and attractiveness, and Gwyneth (who wore a fat suit) actually called the movie a "disaster" in 2020.

Columbia Pictures

5. White Chicks (2004)

Featuring over-the-top humor and absurd disguises, White Chicks was a hit in 2004. Nonetheless, it's a tired portrayal of women as materialistic, shallow, and obsessed with their looks.

The premise involves two FBI agents posing as socialites during a Hamptons weekend, and it was always meant to be ridiculous. Even so, there are certain scenes that are especially questionable, like when an athlete at the club attempts to spike a woman's drink.

Universal Pictures

6. Brüno (2009)

Brüno was intended to be a bold satire, Sacha Baron Cohen's specialty, but it crosses the line of edgy humor. He plays an exaggerated, flamboyant Austrian fashion journalist, and the mockumentary was meant to expose homophobia.

Despite that, the movie incorporated a lot of outdated gay stereotypes and might've reinforced the notions as opposed to challenging them. In fact, Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD) representative Rashad Robinson called the work "problematic in many places and outright offensive in others."

New Line Cinema

7. Wedding Crashers (2005)

Wedding Crashers revolves around two men who lie their way into weddings to manipulate women into sleeping with them. At its core, the film's plot is unsettling and questionable.

Aside from that, it features gay stereotypes, a racist grandmother, and scenes that blur the lines of consent. All that being said, t's obvious why this movie wouldn't fly today.

New Line Cinema

8. The Notebook (2003)

The Notebook is still one of the most favored romance movies of all time, so this may be an unpopular opinion, but some of its most iconic moments are more disturbing than anything.

There's no denying that Noah and Allie's love story is passionate, but his relentless pursuit of her is borderline manipulative. Remember when he threatened to let go of the Ferris wheel if she didn't go on a date with him?

Plus, once they actually get together, their relationship is filled with constant fighting, including scenes when Allie hits Noah. Female-on-male violence has traditionally been glossed over in films, but today, Hollywood is moving away from these problematic depictions.

Paramount Pictures

9. How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days (2003)

This movie follows advice columnist Andie Anderson, played by Kate Hudson, who wants to write an attention-grabbing piece. She finds Ben Berry, an advertising executive who's arguably creepy and manipulative.

While How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days may be a classic rom-com, it relies on gender stereotypes that can feel more offensive than humorous now.

Paramount Pictures

10. Mean Girls (2004)

Finally, we can't forget about Mean Girls, one of the most iconic teen comedies of the 2000s. Sure, it's filled with endlessly quotable lines and a sharp take on high school cliques, but it also has relentless body-shaming.

Many of the scenes would hit differently in today's more body-positive era, making Mean Girls a more cringey watch in 2025.

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