March is Women’s History Month, a time to celebrate women’s achievements and contributions throughout history. To mark this occasion, be sure to hit play on some of these amazing films made for, made by, or about women. These films offer unique perspectives and showcase women’s experiences, struggles, and triumphs, making them the perfect way to celebrate the diversity, resilience, and strength of women during this month and beyond.
1. Lady Bird (2017)
Lady Bird is a coming-of-age film directed by Greta Gerwig that follows high school senior Christine “Lady Bird” McPherson as she navigates her final year of high school and the challenges of growing up in Sacramento. The film’s focus on female relationships and the experiences of a young woman finding her place in the world makes it a fitting choice to watch this month. It is a poignant portrayal of the struggles and challenges women face, highlighting the importance of women supporting and empowering each other. It’s also one of my favorite movies to this day.
2. Booksmart (2019)
Directed by Olivia Wilde, Booksmart is a coming-of-age comedy film that challenges gender stereotypes and celebrates female empowerment. The film follows two high-achieving best friends, Molly and Amy, as they embark on a wild night of partying before graduation. Booksmart highlights the importance of female friendship and portrays complex and relatable female characters who are unapologetically themselves. It is a feminist film that promotes gender equality and advocates for the breaking down of societal expectations and barriers that limit the potential of young women.
3. Hidden Figures (2016)
Hidden Figures is a biographical drama film directed by Theodore Melfi that tells the untold story of three African-American female mathematicians, Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson, who played a pivotal role in the early years of NASA’s space program. The film highlights the significant contributions these women made to American history while navigating systemic racism and sexism, promoting gender and racial equality. As a woman in STEM, this movie was one of the first films I watched that displayed the strength and perseverance of trailblazing women who challenged the status quo, paving the way for future generations.
4. Moana (2016)
Moana is an animated musical film that tells the story of a fearless young girl who sets sail on a mission to save her island and her people. Though characterized as a traditional ‘Disney Princess’ movie, the film portrays Moana as a strong and capable leader, promoting female empowerment, and showing young girls that they can be the heroes of their own stories. This family-friendly film is a powerful example of feminism in media, encouraging girls to embrace their strength, courage, and independence.
5. Little Women (2019)
Directed by Greta Gerwig, Little Women is a 2019 adaptation of the classic novel by Louisa May Alcott that follows the lives of the March sisters in the mid to late 1800s. The film explores themes of family, love, and creativity, while also challenging gender norms and expectations of the time. Gerwig’s adaptation highlights the strength and independence of the March sisters, who were trailblazers in their own right, defying societal expectations and pursuing their passions. Little Women celebrates the resilience and determination of women, inspiring audiences to appreciate the important role that women have played in shaping history.
6. Wonder Woman (2017)
Directed by Patty Jenkins, Wonder Woman is a superhero film based on the DC Comics character of the same name. The film follows Diana, Princess of the Amazons, as she leaves her home to fight in World War I and discover her true destiny as Wonder Woman. Wonder Woman celebrates female strength, bravery, and heroism, while also challenging gender stereotypes in the superhero genre. The film portrays Diana as a fierce warrior and leader, inspiring audiences to embrace their own power and potential.
These feminist films, featuring talented women, celebrate the strength, resilience, and empowerment of women, making them perfect choices to enjoy during Women’s History Month. Happy watching!