Women’s Day is a perfect opportunity to celebrate the strength, resilience, and brilliance of women across the globe. One of the best ways to do this is through cinema, where female characters are often portrayed in dynamic, complex, and inspiring ways. Whether they are leading an adventure, overcoming adversities, or breaking stereotypes, these women stand as symbols of empowerment, encouraging audiences to reflect on their own strength and potential. This guide not only highlights some remarkable films with strong female characters but also recommends streaming platforms where you can find them.
Louisa May Alcott’s classic novel has been adapted into film numerous times, but the 2019 version directed by Greta Gerwig brings fresh depth to the beloved story of the March sisters. Each of the sisters—Jo, Meg, Beth, and Amy—presents a unique version of femininity, from Jo’s fierce independence and aspirations of becoming a writer to Amy’s passion for art and personal growth. The film highlights the power of sisterhood, the pursuit of one’s dreams, and the struggles that women face in a patriarchal society. It also emphasizes how women can support each other while still striving for personal success.
This adaptation is filled with remarkable performances from Saoirse Ronan, Florence Pugh, Emma Watson, and Eliza Scanlen, making the characters feel real and relatable. The portrayal of Jo March as a woman who refuses to be constrained by societal expectations encourages viewers to follow their own paths and chase their dreams unapologetically.
"Hidden Figures" tells the true story of three African-American women—Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson—who played pivotal roles in NASA’s success during the space race. Despite facing both racial and gender discrimination, these women used their intellect, determination, and courage to break through barriers and make significant contributions to science and technology.
The movie not only highlights the importance of diversity in the workforce but also shows how women in STEM fields are often overlooked and underappreciated. Katherine Johnson, in particular, emerges as a hero, defying the odds to calculate the trajectory for John Glenn’s orbital flight, thus becoming a crucial figure in American history. The film is an inspiration to women aspiring to succeed in male-dominated industries.
Steven Spielberg’s adaptation of Alice Walker’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, "The Color Purple," tells the harrowing and triumphant story of Celie, a poor African-American woman in the early 20th century. Overcoming abuse, separation from her sister, and a lifetime of hardships, Celie’s journey is one of survival, self-discovery, and eventual empowerment.
The film powerfully portrays the strength of female friendship and the importance of finding one’s voice. Celie, played by Whoopi Goldberg, grows from a timid and abused woman into a confident individual who reclaims her life and dignity. Oprah Winfrey and Margaret Avery deliver powerful performances as well, making this an unforgettable story about resilience and sisterhood.
The animated classic "Mulan" from Disney tells the story of a young Chinese woman who disguises herself as a man to take her father’s place in the army. Despite the traditional roles that society tries to impose on her, Mulan’s bravery and intelligence shine through as she proves that courage and leadership are not bound by gender. The film celebrates individuality, the pursuit of honor, and the importance of family.
Mulan’s journey resonates with anyone who has ever felt limited by societal expectations. She refuses to adhere to traditional gender roles and instead uses her unique strengths to succeed in a male-dominated world. The movie reminds us that heroism comes in many forms and that women, too, can be warriors.
Frida Kahlo is one of the most iconic female figures in the art world, and the film "Frida," starring Salma Hayek, delves into her complicated, colorful life. Frida, known for her bold and unique paintings, also had a tumultuous personal life filled with physical pain, political activism, and passion. The film captures the essence of Frida’s artistic genius and her unyielding spirit in the face of adversity.
Through Frida’s story, the film explores themes of identity, independence, and defiance. It sheds light on the struggles of living in a world that doesn’t always understand or accept unconventional women. Frida’s unapologetic personality and commitment to her art make her an inspirational figure for women everywhere.
Directed by Ridley Scott, "Thelma & Louise" tells the story of two women, Thelma and Louise, who embark on a road trip that takes unexpected turns. Initially depicted as ordinary women, their adventure leads them to break free from oppressive relationships and societal expectations, ultimately becoming symbols of freedom, empowerment, and defiance.
This film is an empowering portrayal of female friendship and rebellion. The characters challenge the notion that women must conform to traditional roles, and by the end of the film, Thelma and Louise have become icons of female liberation. The film’s tragic yet liberating conclusion underscores the high cost of freedom but also serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of autonomy.
Greta Gerwig’s "Lady Bird" tells the story of Christine “Lady Bird” McPherson, a high school senior in Sacramento who is struggling to define herself. As Lady Bird navigates the challenges of growing up, including her complicated relationship with her mother, her academic ambitions, and her romantic relationships, she learns to embrace her individuality.
The film highlights the nuanced struggles of adolescence, especially the expectations placed on young women to conform to societal standards. It’s an authentic exploration of the desire for independence and the journey toward self-acceptance, and Saoirse Ronan’s portrayal of Lady Bird is both heartfelt and relatable.
Now that we’ve highlighted these incredible women-centric films, let’s look at some of the best platforms where you can watch them and other empowering movies. Streaming services offer convenient ways to access a wide array of content, including movies that celebrate female strength and independence.
Netflix has become one of the go-to streaming platforms for high-quality films and TV shows. It offers a rich selection of movies featuring strong female characters. Titles such as "The Queen’s Gambit," "Enola Holmes," "The Social Network," and many more are available to stream. Netflix's original productions, such as "Bird Box" (starring Sandra Bullock) and "The Prom," also showcase incredible performances by women.
Amazon Prime Video is another fantastic streaming service that provides a large library of female-driven content. In addition to "Hidden Figures" and "Little Women," you can also enjoy films like "The Post," "The Hunger Games," and "A League of Their Own." Prime Video offers a mix of classic films and new releases, ensuring that there’s something for everyone who wants to celebrate women in cinema.
For fans of Disney films, Disney+ offers a treasure trove of female-centric stories, from animated films like "Mulan" to live-action adaptations like "Beauty and the Beast." Disney+ also includes Marvel films featuring strong female characters such as "Captain Marvel" and the recent series "Ms. Marvel." Additionally, the platform is home to "The Falcon and the Winter Soldier" and "WandaVision," where female characters like Wanda Maximoff take center stage.
HBO Max is home to a wide range of movies with powerful female protagonists. Films like "Wonder Woman," "Thelma & Louise," and "Frida" are available on this platform. HBO Max also offers some fantastic series with strong female characters, such as "Big Little Lies" and "Sex and the City."
Apple TV+ is a newer streaming service but has quickly gained a reputation for its original content. One of its most popular shows, "The Morning Show," features two powerful women—played by Jennifer Aniston and Reese Witherspoon—navigating the challenges of the media industry. Films like "On the Rocks" and "Palmer" also center around complex female characters.
Women's Day is an ideal occasion to celebrate the remarkable contributions of women in all spheres of life, including cinema. The films mentioned here offer a range of narratives, from historical dramas to contemporary stories, each spotlighting the diverse experiences and empowering journeys of women. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic drama, a historical epic, or an animated adventure, there is a film out there that will resonate with you.
To watch these incredible stories unfold, the streaming platforms listed above offer convenient access to empowering content, allowing you to celebrate and reflect on the strength, resilience, and power of women from the comfort of your own home. So grab your popcorn, sit back, and enjoy these powerful films that inspire, uplift, and empower.
