Movies with Strong Female Figures to Watch this Holiday Season

We hope that everyone is taking time to slow down and spend time with your loved ones as we approach the end of the year. Here are some suggested movies which feature strong female figures, which you may wish to check out over toffee nut lattes and log cakes!

Hidden Figures

Hidden Figures focuses on three African American, female mathematicians who were instrumental in NASA’s key missions in the 1960s, as they dealt with racial and gender discrimination in the workplace. It is an inspiring story that pays tribute to Katherine Johnson’s, Dorothy Vaughan’s, and Mary Jackson’s struggle and willpower in spite of the tough obstacles they faced.

Wild

Wild features Cheryl Strayed, who was grieving the loss of her mother and the breakdown of her marriage. She decided to embark a hike along the 1,100 mile-long Pacific Crest Trail to force a reset to her life. The film paints a journey of self-discovery as she, an inexperienced hiker, trekked one of the US’ longest and toughest trails. It is a story about strength, personal growth, regret and healing. Encanto

“We don’t talk about Bruno!” Encanto and its tunes captured the hearts of audiences across all age groups when it was released in 2021. The film features the Madrigals, an extraordinary family where almost everyone has a special ability. Almost, except the main protagonist Mirabel. However, she eventually discovers that she may be the family’s last hope when the magic the Madrigals rely on is in danger. Femininity is portrayed through various facets, via Mirabel, Abuela, and Mirabel's older sister Lusia.

On the Basis of Sex

Late supreme court judge Ruth Bader Ginsburg (RBG) was a groundbreaking woman of her time, and an icon of ours. She fought tirelessly for gender equality under the eyes of the law, and also battled sexism in her own life. This inspiring biopic features the life and struggles of a young RBG.

Erin Brockovich

Ahead of its time, this 2000 film is based on the true story of Erin Brockovich, who fought against a corporate giant that was polluting the waters and affecting the health of surrounding residents. This film features power dynamics between individuals and large corporations, gender discrimination, and highlights climate crime.

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This article is part of the Social Impact column by the Social Impact subcommittee that focuses on social causes concerning women and children. Click here to learn more about the subcommittee and its initiatives.

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Author: Audrey Tim