International Women's Day (8th March) is a powerful reminder to celebrate the achievements of women globally and reaffirm our commitment to achieving gender equality. By actively engaging with diverse portrayals in media, we can foster a deeper understanding of women's experiences and contribute to the ongoing conversation about creating a more equitable future.
Let's go beyond simply celebrating female icons. While entertainment plays a crucial role in shaping our perceptions, true empowerment lies in delving deeper and fostering critical engagement with the stories we consume. Movies and shows have the power to challenge harmful stereotypes and narratives about women.
This International Women's Day, let's look at titles featuring powerful female characters.
Life & Beth
Amy Schumer takes on the complexities of life and self-discovery as Beth, a woman navigating her career, relationships, and personal struggles. This show highlights the importance of female friendships and the strength found in vulnerability and resilience.
Captain Marvel
Carol Danvers doesn't need saving. As one of the strongest heroes in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, she embodies the idea of women owning their power and defying limitations. Captain Marvel reminds us that representation matters, as it challenges traditional narratives and inspires young viewers to dream big.
Feud
This historical drama delves into the rivalry between Hollywood legends Bette Davis and Joan Crawford. While exploring their complex relationship, Feud sheds light on the challenges faced by women in the entertainment industry and the fight for female agency in a male-dominated space.
Pretty Woman
Julia Roberts's iconic portrayal of Vivian Ward in the film transcends the typical romantic comedy narrative. Vivian's journey demonstrates the power of female agency and resilience, showcasing her ability to rewrite her own story and challenge societal expectations.
Cruella
This villain origin story offers a complex and unconventional portrayal of a woman defying societal norms. While not a story to be emulated entirely, the film prompts viewers to question the traditional "good girl" vs. "bad girl" trope and consider the multifaceted nature of female characters.
Brave
Princess Merida rewrites the rules in this animated Disney film. Her journey of self-discovery and defiance against arranged marriage challenges traditional gender roles and celebrates female individuality and strength.
The Marvels
Captain Marvel joins forces with her estranged niece, astronaut Captain Monica Rambeau and super-fan Kamala Khan, aka Ms. Marvel to save the universe.
Grey’s Anatomy
The medical drama follows the personal and professional lives of the doctors at Seattle’s Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital.
Black Panther: Wakanda Forever
Queen Ramonda, Shuri, M’Baku, Okoye and the Dora Milaje fight to protect their nation from intervening world powers after the death of beloved King T’Challa.
Ms Marvel
Kamala Khan, a Muslim American teen growing up in Jersey City, is a Superhero mega fan who discovers she has super powers.
She Hulk: Attorney At Law
Jennifer Walters, an attorney specialising in superhuman-oriented legal cases, must navigate the complicated life of a single, green 6-foot-7-inch hulk.
Extraordinary
Armed with a bit of hope and a lot of desperation, Jen begins her journey to find her superpower.
Turning Red
Mei Lee, a confident, dorky 13-years-old, tries to balance friends, family, the chaos of adolescence and an uncontrollable ability to poof into a giant red panda.
Celebrate the full spectrum of womanhood with these diverse and inspiring female characters brought to life.