Women don’t get enough recognition. Whether it’s female celebrities or non-famous individuals, our gender has brought about a plethora of expectations and standards as we balance motherhood, school and work. This is all amidst a discouraging wage gap and the prevalence of sexual harassment and abuse in and out of the workplace. For those in the entertainment industry, with all that’s come to light in a post-Weinstein time, it’s all the more important to keep speaking out.
Over the past year, actresses have famously spoken about the pay disparity and harassment in the field. But it’s not all bleak. More than ever, brands and platforms are encouraging female empowerment, and women aren’t backing down. There’s nothing like a female-led movie to remind us of what we’re capable of. In honor of International Women’s Day, these are ten past and upcoming films with female leads that you need to watch. And no, none of them were produced by the Weinstein Company.
Atomic Blonde
Starring Charlize Theron, Atomic Blonde tells the fast-paced story of a high-level spy and gives you a look into the complications of politics and international relations. When you think you’ve outsmarted her, think again.
Black Swan
A thriller that leaves some of the events open to interpretation, Black Swan details the perfectionism and intensity associated with the art of ballet. Natalie Portman and Mila Kunis spoke about the physical mental demands of getting into character, from heavy exercising and training to weight loss.
Captain Marvel: March 8, 2019
While not much is yet know about Captain Marvel, the anticipation is more than building. The 2019 film stars Brie Larson and she’s making history as Marvel Cinematic Universe’s first female feature film.
He Named Me Malala
An emotional documentary, He Named Me Malala tells the true story of Malala Yousafzai, a children’s rights activist who was shot by the Taliban and miraculously survived. From her upbringing in Pakistan to her current life in the UK as the youngest Nobel Prize recipient.
Hidden Figures
Based on a true story, Hidden Figures sheds light on some of the heroines during the Space Race. Taraji P. Henson, Octavia Spencer and Janelle Monae give powerful performances as African-American female mathematicians who face racism and sexism throughout their contributions to NASA.
Miss Sloane
A film that requires you to fully pay attention and read between the lines, Miss Sloane depicts the investigation of a lobbyist as the plot switches back and forth between past and present. Jessica Chastain’s performance leaves you with no doubt that she never loses a case.
Star Wars: The Last Jedi
Starring more than a few female actresses with powerful roles, The Last Jedi features Daisy Ridley, Carrie Fisher, Gwendoline Christie, Kelly Marie Tran and Laura Dern amongst equally important male counterparts. Continuing the story after the Force Awakens, the film shows that not every male and female pair needs a romantic plot and highlights the push and pull between light and dark.
The Help
The Help is based on the 2009 novel and details the fragile social hierarchy of the 60s in Mississippi, and one woman’s attempt to reveal it all.
Tomb Raider: March 16, 2018
The upcoming adventure film stars Alicia Vikander. While we already know she can act, we’ll see how her training has paid off during the action sequences.
Wonder Woman
Wonder Woman was widely talked about before and after its release and will be for years to come. Starring Gal Gadot, who has publicly advocated for feminism and wage equality, the film broke a multitude of records and proved that not all superheroes are male, nor do they need one by their side. Its success only lets us see the need for more female-led superhero films even more.
