While the entertainment industry is full of inequality in which straight, white men are at the center, some movies featuring strong, diverse women do exist, and they’re ones you don’t want to miss. As they empower women to know how smart and skillful they are, these movies portray women overcoming barriers and achieving outstanding success. Whether you’re hosting a family movie night, wanting to watch something with a friend, or even enjoying some alone time, the following feminist movies are incredible feel-good options you can watch.
Frida
“Frida” tells the story of Frida Kahlo, a bisexual, Mexican, female painter. Chronicling her life and experiences, including her relationships, paintings, affairs, traumatic injury, death, and more, this movie shows how women can overcome tragedy and create amazing art. Frida was a strong woman who led a bold political and artistic life, making this movie about her a must-see.
Hidden Figures
Telling the stories of and uplifting powerful women of color is especially important, which is what I love about “Hidden Figures.” This movie is based on the true story of three Black female mathematicians — Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson — who helped launch John Glenn into space. This achievement was an enormous step for America in the Space Race, making these women heroes for our country. Women can do amazing things and are worth celebrating!
Legally Blonde
“Legally Blonde” is one of my favorites because it shows when women work hard, they can do the unexpected and stand out in traditionally male-heavy careers. When Elle’s boyfriend, Warner, dumps her because he needs someone more serious while he attends law school, she decides to go to law school herself to show him how serious she can be. Elle works hard and gets in, but people don’t take her seriously at first because she wears fluffy pink outfits and has a pen to match. However, after lots of studying and commitment, she becomes one of the best students — and lawyers — realizing she doesn’t need a man who never appreciated her, anyway. Love that!
Dumplin’
In a society filled with body standards and diet culture, feeling comfortable in a larger body can be difficult. If you’re looking for a body-positive movie, check out “Dumplin’” next! Willowdean, the curvy daughter of a former beauty queen, signs up for her mom’s beauty pageant to make a statement. Revolutionizing the town and changing the face of pageants, Willowdean and other contestants of various sizes show you don’t have to be thin to be beautiful. Amen to that!
Ocean’s Eight
If you’ve seen any of the “Ocean’s” movies before, you know they usually center men — but “Ocean’s Eight” doesn’t! This comedic action movie contains a star-studded cast with actresses such as Sandra Bullock, Anne Hathaway, Cate Blanchett, Rihanna, Mindy Kaling, Sarah Paulson, Helena Bonham, Awkwafina, and more. In this movie, Debbie Ocean leads a group of women in a major heist targeting a highly expensive necklace. While these women are technically carrying out a crime, the movie is empowering because it shows how intelligent and capable women are. They shouldn’t be underestimated!
