International Women’s Day is celebrated annually on March 8th, and it’s a day to recognise the achievements and contributions of women all over the world.
To celebrate the occasion, we’ve compiled a list of eight movies with complex, strong women leads that are incredible to watch. Each movie showcases the incredible achievements of women, the importance of sisterhood, and the power of standing up for what is right.
So, grab some popcorn, gather some friends, and enjoy these inspiring films tonight (or afternoon — we’re not judging!).
Alien (1979)
OK, hear me out first. I’m a huge horror fanatic and it’s great to see a strong woman lead who defies all odds.
The original science-fiction horror film features Sigourney Weaver, playing the role of Ellen Ripley. Ripley is a warrant officer who battles a deadly alien creature aboard a spaceship. She’s a strong and capable female lead who defies gender stereotypes. Not to mention, she proves herself to be a formidable hero in a hostile and dangerous environment. Like c’mon, she managed to survive Aliens?!?!
Where to watch: Disney Plus
Little Women (2019)
“Little Women” is a coming-of-age drama that tells the story of the March sisters, four young women growing up in the late 1800s. The film is based on the classic novel by Louisa May Alcott and directed by Greta Gerwig.
In the aftermath of America’s Civil War, the movie explores themes of sisterhood, love, and independence as the sisters navigate their way through life. Saoirse Ronan gives a standout performance as the headstrong Jo March, who aspires to be a writer and refuses to conform to society’s expectations of women.
Where to watch: Binge, Apple TV
Erin Brockovich (2000)
“Erin Brockovich” is a biographical drama that tells the story of a single mother who becomes a legal assistant. She helps to win a groundbreaking lawsuit against a corporation that was polluting a town’s water supply.
Julia Roberts won an Academy Award for her portrayal of Erin, who uses her intelligence, determination, and compassion to help the people affected by the corporation’s negligence. The film is a powerful reminder of the impact that one person can make when they stand up for what is right.
Where to watch: 7Plus, Stan, YouTube
Hidden Figures (2016)
“Hidden Figures” tells an inspiring true story. It follows three African American women who worked as mathematicians at NASA during the 1960s. Katherine Johnson (Taraji P. Henson), Dorothy Vaughan (Octavia Spencer), and Mary Jackson (Janelle Monáe) overcome racism and sexism to make significant contributions to the space program.
The film is a celebration of the strength and resilience of women who break barriers and achieve great things.
Where to watch: Disney Plus
Mulan (2020)
“Mulan” is a live-action adaptation of the classic Disney animated film. It follows a young woman who disguises herself as a man to join the army and defend her country against invaders. The film stars Liu Yifei as Mulan and features an all-Asian cast. The movie is a celebration of female strength, courage, and resilience and is a perfect watch for International Women’s Day.
Where to watch: Disney Plus
Kill Bill: Vol. 1 (2003)
“Kill Bill” is truly a classic. The revenge thriller, directed by Quentin Tarantino, stars Uma Thurman who plays the role of “The Bride”. Throughout the film, she demonstrates her physical strength, agility, and determination as she seeks revenge on those who wronged her.
It also features several other strong female characters, including “O-Ren Ishii,” played by Lucy Liu, and “Vernita Green,” played by Vivica A. Fox, who are equally determined and skilled fighters.
“Kill Bill” subverts traditional gender roles and stereotypes by presenting these women as fighters, leaders, and agents of their own destinies.
Where to watch: Google Play
Wonder Woman (2017)
I don’t know about you, but “Wonder Woman” has always been a superhero I’ve looked up to. Gal Gadot plays the iconic character of Diana, a powerful Amazonian warrior who becomes Wonder Woman. Diana depicts a strong and powerful character who is unapologetic in her strength and conviction.
Diana comes from an island of women who have lived in peace for centuries, free from the oppression and violence of the outside world. When she leaves her home to fight in World War I, she discovers the harsh realities of a world where women are not treated as equals. However, she refuses to be held back by the societal norms and expectations of her time and continues to fight for what she believes in.
Where to watch: Binge, Stan
Mad Max: Fury Road (2015)
Mad Max Fury Road is an action-packed post-apocalyptic film that stars Charlize Theron as Imperator Furiosa. She plays a warrior who helps a group of women escape from a tyrannical leader. The movie is a thrilling ride with incredible stunts and visual effects, but it also has a powerful message about the strength of women and the importance of fighting for what is right.
Where to watch: Netflix, Stan, Binge
