WOMEN face a lot of struggles throughout their lives, may it be their biological processes, societal pressures, or personal trauma. Over the years, various films have tackled these challenges to raise awareness and empowerment.
This Women’s Month, whether you’re seeking inspiration, understanding, or empowerment, here are five must-watch feminist films across different genres.
Hidden Figures (2016)
“Yes, they let women do some things at NASA, Mr. Johnson, and it’s not because we wear skirts. It’s because we wear glasses.” – Katherine Johnson, NASA Mathematician
Rating: PG
Genre: Biography, Drama, History
Running time: 2 hr 7 min
Watch here: Hidden Figures Trailer
This film tells a true story of three African-American women who served as ‘human computers’ at NASA during the 1960s. Despite their significant contribution, they faced systemic racism and sexism.
This film follows Katherine Johnson, showing her crucial calculations, which played a huge role in NASA’s success. It also confronts the harsh realities of being a black woman.
Revenge (2017)
“You can’t just leave me here to die.” – Jen, female protagonist who was raped
Rating: R (contains adult material such as violence)
Genre: Action, Drama, Thriller
Running time: 1 hr 48 min
Watch here: Revenge Official Movie Trailer
Women are not only smart, but they are brave! For this gripping thriller, young mistress Jen finds herself in a fight for survival after being assaulted by her boyfriend’s friends during a romantic getaway.
This action-driven film will leave you in suspense as Jen refuses to be these men’s victim.
Legally Blonde (2001)
“What? Like it’s hard?” – Elle Woods, who got into Harvard Law School after being dumped
Rating: PG-13
Genre: Comedy, Romance
Running time: 1 hr 36 min
Watch here: Legally Blonde Official Trailer
Despite having it all, Elle Woods was still dumped by her boyfriend for being ‘too blonde.’ To win him back, Elle decides to follow him to law school, where Elle’s quest for love turns into a journey of self-discovery as she realizes there’s more to her than her looks.
The Substance (2024)
“You can’t escape from yourself.” – The Substance, a black market drug for a temporary younger and better version of oneself
Rating: R (contains adult material such as graphic nudity and gore)
Genre: Body horror, Sci-fi
Running time: 2 hr 20 min
Watch here: The Substance Official Trailer
Elisabeth Sparkle, a one-celebrated star, turns to a black-market drug to reclaim her youth and career after being fired for turning 50 years old.
Elisabeth, finally receiving the same attention from people again, eventually gets obsessed with the drug until everything goes horribly wrong.
This film reflects society’s pressure on women to maintain their beauty, or they will lose their value otherwise.
The Old Guard (2020)
“Well, sometimes you got to work with people you don’t want to eat with.” – Andy, leader of a group of immortal warriors
Rating: R (contains adult material like graphic violence and language)
Genre: Action, Fantasy
Running time: 2 hr 5 min
Watch here: The Old Guard Official Trailer
Breaking away from the traditional superhero narratives, this movie features a powerful female protagonist, Andy, who leads a group of immortal warriors.
Just when Andy has already the feeling her immortality may end, they have to face a group of people who learned about their power.
Unlike the usual sexualized representations of women superheroes, this film focuses on the strength and leadership of women who can be both fierce protectors and complex individuals.
This Women’s Month, celebrate women by watching these movies representing their strength and resilience in different identities and genres. Enjoy!
