Films about sexism often explore the pervasive and nuanced ways in which gender-based prejudice and discrimination manifest in societies around the world. They can highlight institutional injustices, personal stories, and the broader societal impacts of sexist attitudes and behaviors. These films not only entertain but also educate and provoke discussions about gender equality and women’s rights.
“North Country”, 2005
Director: Niki Caro
Inspired by a true story, this film features Charlize Theron as a woman who fights against the sexual harassment she and other female miners face at work, sparking a landmark legal case.
Starring: Charlize Theron, Thomas Curtis, Elle Peterson, Frances McDormand, Sean Bean, Woody Harrelson, Jeremy Renner, Richard Jenkins, Sissy Spacek, James Cada;
Production year: 2005;
Genre: drama;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 126 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,3;
More information about the film “North Country” on the website imdb.com
“9 to 5”, 1982
Director: Gary Shimokawa, Doug Rogers, Burt Brinckerhoff, Phil Ramuno
A comedy starring Jane Fonda, Lily Tomlin, and Dolly Parton, this film focuses on three working women who conspire to get even with their sexist, egotistical, and hypocritical boss.
Starring: Rachel Dennison, Valerie Curtin, Sally Struthers, Edward Winter, Rita Moreno, Peter Bonerz, Jean Marsh, Peter Evans, Fred Applegate, Art Evans;
Production year: 1982;
Genre: comedy;
Rating: IMDB: 6,2;
More information about the film “9 to 5” on the website imdb.com
“The Color Purple”, 1985
Director: Steven Spielberg
Directed by Steven Spielberg and based on the novel by Alice Walker, this film delves into the life of a young African American girl facing oppression and sexism in early 20th century America.
Starring: Whoopi Goldberg, Danny Glover, Adolph Caesar, Margaret Avery, Rae Dawn Chong, Oprah Winfrey, Willard E. Pugh, Akosua Busia, Desreta Jackson, Dana Ivey;
Production year: 1985;
Genre: drama;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 154 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,7;
More information about the film “The Color Purple” on the website imdb.com
“Erin Brockovich”, 2000
Director: Steven Soderbergh
This biographical film features Julia Roberts as a single mother and legal assistant who brings a significant case against a corporation for polluting a city's water supply, navigating sexism in both her personal and professional life.
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
“Mad Max: Fury Road”, 2015
Director: George Miller
Directed by George Miller, this action-packed movie subtly explores feminist themes, with Charlize Theron’s character, Imperator Furiosa, rebelling against a tyrannical ruler who oppresses women.
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
Each of these films tackles the theme of sexism in its own unique way, contributing to ongoing conversations about gender equality.
In conclusion, films about sexism serve not just as artistic expressions but as reflective catalysts that challenge societal norms and provoke necessary dialogue. They often present raw, unflinching portraits of the struggles faced due to gender-based discrimination, enabling audiences to confront uncomfortable truths and fostering a platform for empathy and understanding. From the depiction of subtle workplace inequality to the harrowing narratives of abuse and resistance, these films are crucial in educating, raising awareness, and potentially inspiring change. In their varied narratives and styles, they share a common goal: to illuminate the pervasive nature of sexism and to embolden viewers to question, resist, and dismantle the systemic barriers that perpetuate gender inequity.
