Revisiting Promising Young Woman after the Cornell 7

Revisiting Promising Young Woman after the Cornell 7

"We know instinctively within us there's an enormous cost to telling the truth." — Devi

In light of Jane Doe's allegations involving the Cornell Seven and the renewed conversation about consent, intoxication and accountability, Jessica returns to Where Do We Go From Here? to revisit a discussion she and Devi recorded in 2021.

Sitting together on Jessica's couch, they watched Promising Young Woman and recorded their reactions immediately afterwards. Their conversation explores how the film exposes sexual entitlement, victim-blaming and the people and institutions that enable harm.

Through Cassie's confrontations with a former friend, a university dean, a lawyer and the man who assaulted her best friend, Jessica and Devi consider:

• Men who offer to "help" an apparently intoxicated woman, then exploit her vulnerability.

• How women's drinking and sexual histories become excuses to dismiss their experiences.

• Whose reputation and future institutions choose to protect.

• The difference between appearing to be a "nice guy" and taking responsibility.

• The personal cost of speaking up and seeking justice.

This re-release includes a new introduction and a 2026 postscript from Jessica. She reflects on institutional responsibility, the anger these conversations evoke, and why acknowledging harm never entitles someone to forgiveness or reconciliation. She also considers the work still ahead, alongside permission to take a break when it becomes overwhelming.

Content note: Discussion of rape, sexual assault, victim-blaming, suicide and violence against women. This episode contains full spoilers, including the film's ending. We recommend watching the film before listening.

Film: Promising Young Woman (2020) on IMDb