In this year’s Oscar race, biographical films nominated for Best Picture (such as Oppenheimer and Maestro) highlight men while paying scant attention to the women who stand beside them, contributing to their significant accomplishments.
In honor of International Women’s Day on March 8th, we’ve curated a selection of films that spotlight dynamic, powerful women. Here are 10 films that shape our history and pave the way for a brighter future for all.
Erin Brockovich (2000)
Directed by Steven Soderbergh, “Erin Brockovich” tells the story of a real-life event while also reflecting a woman’s pursuit of justice. The film follows Erin Brockovich’s journey as she fights for justice on behalf of individuals who have been harmed and made ill by the actions of the company PG&E (Pacific Gas & Electric) in a real estate case.
Penned by Susannah Grant, “Erin Brockovich” was released in 2000 and received widespread praise from both audiences and critics. Julia Roberts, in the lead role of Erin Brockovich, won the Academy Award for Best Actress for her portrayal.
On the Basis of Sex (2018)
Ruth graduates from a law school where male students are in the majority. As a young lawyer committed to advocating for women’s rights, she takes action to overturn the Constitutional Court’s decision on sexual inequality. Along this path, her greatest supporter is her husband, Marty.
The biographical film depicts the story of Ruth Bader Ginsburg, the first female judge in the United States, renowned for her advocacy for women’s rights. Felicity Jones portrays the esteemed attorney in the film.
What’s Love Got to Do With It (1993)
The 1993 film “What’s Love Got to Do with It” is based on Tina Turner’s autobiography, “I, Tina: My Life Story,” depicting her rise to stardom. Angela Bassett portrays Tina, while Laurence Fishburne portrays Ike Turner. The film also addresses the couple’s marital issues and Ike Turner’s detrimental impact on Tina’s life.
Bassett and Fishburne’s performances earned them nominations for Best Actress and Best Actor at the 66th Academy Awards. Bassett also won the Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in a Motion Picture – Comedy or Musical for her role.
Persepolis (2007)
“Persepolis” is an animated film released in 2007, adapted from Marjane Satrapi’s autobiographical graphic novel of the same name.
The film offers a perspective on the lives transformed by the Iranian Islamic Revolution, narrated through the eyes of Marjane, a precocious and outspoken nine-year-old girl. It delves into events such as the overthrow of the Shah, the subsequent rise of radical Islamists, and the resulting restrictions on personal freedoms, including the mandatory veiling of women, the suppression of dissent, and the imprisonment of numerous women.
Battle of the Sexes (2017)
Directed by Jonathan Dayton and Valerie Faris, and written by Simon Beaufoy, “Battle of the Sexes” depicts the famous 1973 tennis match between Billie Jean King and Bobby Riggs, known as the “Battle of the Sexes.”
The film stars Emma Stone and Steve Carell in the lead roles, supported by Andrea Riseborough, Elisabeth Shue, Austin Stowell, Bill Pullman, and Sarah Silverman in supporting roles.
The Young Victoria (2009)
Directed by Jean-Marc Vallée, “The Young Victoria” tells the story of Queen Victoria’s rise to power at a young age, becoming the longest-reigning monarch in British history.
Emily Blunt portrays the young Victoria, while Rupert Friend plays the role of Prince Albert. Produced in part by legendary director Martin Scorsese, this period film won the Academy Award for Best Costume Design among its three Oscar nominations.
Selena (1997)
In the film “Selena,” directed by Gregory Nava, he also wrote the screenplay, co-produced, and co-edited it. The movie depicts the life of Selena Quintanilla-Perez, known as the “Queen of Tejano Music.”
Jennifer Lopez, the renowned Latin artist, portrays Selena in the film. Lopez received a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actress for her performance, garnering full support from Selena fans. Additionally, Lopez pursued extensive vocal training for the role, marking the beginning of her singing career.
Gorillas in the Mist (1988)
Directed by Michael Apted and featuring Sigourney Weaver as the naturalist Dian Fossey, “Gorillas in the Mist” tells the story of Fossey’s work with mountain gorillas in Rwanda. The film received five Academy Award nominations.
Frida (2002)
Directed by Julie Taymor, this film provides an opportunity to delve deeper into the life and art of the Mexican surrealist painter Frida Kahlo. Salma Hayek takes on the lead role, portraying Kahlo.
Hidden Figures (2016)
“Hidden Figures” tells the story of three African-American female mathematicians—Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson—who worked at NASA during its early years and the beginning of the space race.
The film centers on the achievements of these women at NASA and their battles against racial discrimination. Additionally, it explores the historical period of America’s space race and societal transformations. By emphasizing the contributions and efforts of these women, “Hidden Figures” highlights the often overlooked heroes of history.