10 Must-Watch Feminist Films from the 21st Century

Unveiling Women’s Stories: Essential Feminist Films of the 21st Century

The cinematic portrayal of women has historically relegated them to secondary roles, both on and off-screen. The male-dominated film industry has limited opportunities for women, discouraging aspiring female filmmakers. Consequently, numerous movies have misrepresented and misunderstood women, particularly those from marginalized backgrounds. However, accurate depictions of women’s lives are crucial, allowing female viewers to feel acknowledged and understood, with their experiences of sexism portrayed authentically and powerfully.

The following films are standout examples from various cultures, offering profound explorations of the diverse facets of the female experience since 2000.

1. The Circle (Jafar Panahi, 2000) Jafar Panahi‘s “The Circle” confronts the challenges faced by women in modern-day Iran, earning acclaim for its unflinching critique of gender oppression.
2. Morvern Callar (Lynne Ramsay, 2002) Lynne Ramsay’s “Morvern Callar” delves into the complexities of grief and liberation as its protagonist navigates life after her boyfriend’s suicide.
3. Innocence (Lucile Hadžihalilović, 2004) Lucile Hadžihalilović’s “Innocence” hauntingly explores the patriarchal structures shaping girls’ transition into womanhood.
4. Persepolis (Vincent Paronnaud, Marjane Satrapi, 2007) “Persepolis,” co-directed by Marjane Satrapi, offers a poignant portrayal of a young woman’s journey to self-discovery amidst the Iran–Iraq War.
5. 4 Months, 3 Weeks and 2 Days (Cristian Mungiu, 2007) Cristian Mungiu’s “4 Months, 3 Weeks and 2 Days” powerfully addresses abortion and reproductive rights, challenging societal taboos.
6. Fish Tank (Andrea Arnold, 2009) Andrea Arnold’s “Fish Tank” provides a raw depiction of a young girl’s struggle for individualism amidst societal constraints.
7. Girlhood (Céline Sciamma, 2014) Céline Sciamma’s “Girlhood” offers a tender exploration of adolescence and self-confidence among African-French teenagers.
8. A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night (Ana Lily Amirpour, 2014) Ana Lily Amirpour’s “A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night” subverts vampire movie tropes while empowering its female protagonist.
9. Mustang (Deniz Gamze Ergüven, 2015) Deniz Gamze Ergüven’s “Mustang” portrays the defiance of patriarchy by five orphaned sisters facing forced marriages.
10. Earth Mama (Savanah Leaf, 2023) Savanah Leaf’s “Earth Mama” delves into the prejudices faced by mothers, exploring themes of race, identity, and community with honesty and depth.

These films serve as essential contributions to feminist cinema, offering nuanced and powerful narratives that celebrate the resilience and complexity of women’s experiences.

_{Repurposed article originally published in Far Out Magazine}