Films about girl power often explore themes of empowerment, resilience, and the breaking of traditional gender roles. These movies not only entertain but also inspire by showcasing strong, complex female characters who overcome obstacles, challenge societal expectations, and assert their independence and strength. Ranging from animated adventures to biographical dramas, these films span various genres, yet all share the common thread of celebrating female empowerment in its many forms.
“Mad Max: Fury Road”, 2015
Director: George Miller
In a post-apocalyptic wasteland, Furiosa, a war rig driver, rebels against a tyrannical ruler in search of her homeland. Alongside Max, they fight for freedom and survival in a high-octane battle against oppression, highlighting themes of female empowerment and solidarity.
Starring: Tom Hardy, Charlize Theron, Nicholas Hoult, Hugh Keays-Byrne, Josh Helman, Nathan Jones, Zoe Kravitz, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Riley Keough, Abbey Lee;
Production year: 2015;
Genre: action, science fiction, adventure;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 120 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 8,1;
More information about the film “Mad Max: Fury Road” on the website imdb.com
“Mulan”, 1998
Director: Tony Bancroft, Barry Cook
This Disney animated classic tells the story of Mulan, a courageous young woman who disguises herself as a man to take her father's place in the army, fighting bravely to save her family and country. The film celebrates bravery, self-discovery, and the breaking of gender norms.
Starring: Eddie Murphy, Lea Salonga, Miguel Ferrer, Harvey Fierstein, Freda Foh Shen, June Foray, James Hong, Miriam Margolyes, Pat Morita, Marni Nixon;
Production year: 1998;
Genre: animation, musical, fantasy, comedy, adventure, family, war;
MPAA rating: g;
Duration: 84 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,7;
More information about the film “Mulan” on the website imdb.com
“Hidden Figures”, 2016
Director: Theodore Melfi
A biographical drama that follows the remarkable true story of three African-American women mathematicians at NASA who played a crucial role in the early years of the U.S. space program. The film highlights their intelligence, resilience, and determination in the face of systemic racism and sexism.
Starring: Taraji P. Henson, Octavia Spencer, Janelle Monae, Kevin Costner, Kirsten Dunst, Jim Parsons, Mahershala Ali, Aldis Hodge, Glen Powell, Kimberly Quinn;
Production year: 2016;
Genre: drama, biography, history;
MPAA rating: pg;
Duration: 127 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,8;
More information about the film “Hidden Figures” on the website imdb.com
“Brave”, 2012
Director: Mark Andrews, Brenda Chapman, Steve Purcell
This animated tale focuses on Merida, a headstrong Scottish princess who defies tradition by refusing to marry and fighting to carve her own path. It's a story about bravery, the bond between mother and daughter, and the empowerment that comes from controlling one's destiny.
Starring: Kelly Macdonald, Emma Thompson, Billy Connolly, Julie Walters, Robbie Coltrane, Kevin McKidd, Craig Ferguson, Sally Kinghorn, Eilidh Fraser, Peigi Barker;
Production year: 2012;
Genre: animation, fantasy, comedy, adventure, family;
MPAA rating: pg;
Duration: 93 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,1;
More information about the film “Brave” on the website imdb.com
“Wonder Woman”, 2017
Director: Patty Jenkins
Diana, princess of the Amazons and trained warrior, leaves her sheltered island paradise to stop a global conflict. This superhero film showcases the emergence of Wonder Woman as a powerful and compassionate hero, redefining female strength and heroism.
Starring: Gal Gadot, Chris Pine, Connie Nielsen, Robin Wright, Danny Huston, David Thewlis, Saïd Taghmaoui, Ewen Bremner, Eugene Brave Rock, Lucy Davis;
Production year: 2017;
Genre: science fiction, action, war, fantasy;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 141 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,3;
More information about the film “Wonder Woman” on the website imdb.com
“Legally Blonde”, 2001
Director: Robert Luketic
Elle Woods turns stereotypes on their head as she follows her ex-boyfriend to Harvard Law School to win him back but ends up discovering her true potential and passion for law along the way. It's a comedic take on empowerment, self-confidence, and the refusal to be underestimated.
Starring: Reese Witherspoon, Luke Wilson, Selma Blair, Matthew Davis, Victor Garber, Jennifer Coolidge, Holland Taylor, Ali Larter, Jessica Cauffiel, Alanna Ubach;
Production year: 2001;
Genre: melodrama, comedy;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 96 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 6,5;
More information about the film “Legally Blonde” on the website imdb.com
“Erin Brockovich”, 2000
Director: Steven Soderbergh
Based on a true story, Julia Roberts stars as Erin Brockovich, an unemployed single mother who becomes a legal assistant and almost single-handedly brings down a California power company accused of polluting a city's water supply. The film explores themes of perseverance, justice, and the power of one individual to make a difference.
Starring: Julia Roberts, Albert Finney, Aaron Eckhart, Peter Coyote, Cherry Jones, Tracey Walter, Conchata Ferrell, Marg Helgenberger, David Brisbin, Dawn Didawick;
Production year: 2000;
Genre: drama, biography;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 126 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,4;
More information about the film “Erin Brockovich” on the website imdb.com
“The Hunger Games”, 2012
Director: Gary Ross
In a dystopian future, Katniss Everdeen volunteers to participate in a brutal televised competition in place of her sister. Through her cunning, strength, and compassion, she becomes a symbol of hope and rebellion against an oppressive regime.
Starring: Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson, Liam Hemsworth, Woody Harrelson, Elizabeth Banks, Wes Bentley, Donald Sutherland, Stanley Tucci, Lenny Kravitz, Amandla Stenberg;
Production year: 2012;
Genre: science fiction, action, thriller, adventure;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 142 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,2;
More information about the film “The Hunger Games” on the website imdb.com
Each of these films, in its own unique way, pays homage to the strength, resilience, and complexity of women, offering viewers a range of powerful female characters and narratives that inspire and entertain.
In conclusion, films about girl power not only entertain but also inspire, challenge societal norms, and act as a beacon for gender equality and empowerment. By showcasing strong, independent, and diverse female characters who overcome obstacles and defy expectations, these films play a crucial role in shaping perceptions, fostering inclusivity, and advocating for women's rights across the globe. Through their narratives, they encourage viewers, irrespective of gender, to engage in critical reflection on the issues of gender roles, resilience, and the power of unity. As we continue to witness a positive shift towards more inclusive and empowering cinematic experiences, films centered on girl power undoubtedly leave a lasting impact, serving as powerful testimonials to the strength, complexity, and capability of women everywhere. By celebrating female success stories, these films not only contribute to the cultural zeitgeist but also pave the way for future generations to dream bigger, aim higher, and break through the glass ceiling with unwavering courage and determination.
