Movies About Strong Women (List)

Women are powerful, brave, and remarkably strong in real life, and it’s important to see these qualities reflected in media. This curated list of movies highlights inspiring women characters who showcase strength, intelligence, and perseverance. The films span decades and genres, representing a diverse range of women from various backgrounds. From overcoming adversity to fighting for justice, these movies celebrate female empowerment and provide inspiration to women everywhere.

Key Takeaways:

• Movies about strong women showcase inspiring female characters who embody strength, intelligence, and perseverance.
• These films span decades and genres, representing a diverse range of women from various backgrounds.
• Female empowerment is celebrated in these movies, offering inspiration to women everywhere.
• These films challenge traditional gender roles and provide diverse representations of strong women.
• Watching these movies can inspire and empower women to embrace their own strength and potential.

Alien (1979-1997) – Ripley (Sigourney Weaver)

When it comes to movies about strong women and female protagonists, the character of Ripley, portrayed by Sigourney Weaver, in the Alien franchise stands out as an iconic example. Ripley’s character showcases resourcefulness, determination, and bravery in the face of terrifying situations, making her a beloved figure among fans.

In the first Alien movie, Ripley forms a bond with a young girl named Newt and takes charge to rescue her from insurmountable odds. This showcases Ripley’s selflessness and willingness to risk everything to protect others. Her fearlessness and courage in the face of danger make her an inspirational role model.

“Get away from her, you bitch!” – Ripley, Aliens (1986)

Ripley’s character epitomizes the qualities of a strong woman, defying stereotypes and showing that women can lead and prevail in challenging situations. Her character arc and development throughout the franchise make her a powerful symbol of female empowerment in movies.

The Evolution of Ripley’s Character

Throughout the Alien franchise, Ripley undergoes a remarkable transformation, becoming an even more formidable and resilient character. Her journey from a crew member on the Nostromo to a survivor and a fierce fighter against extraterrestrial threats is captivating and inspiring.

• Ripley’s resourcefulness: She relies on her intelligence and resourcefulness to outwit and outmaneuver the formidable alien creatures.
• Determination in the face of danger: Ripley never backs down from a challenge and demonstrates unwavering determination to protect herself and those around her.
• Overcoming adversity: Ripley faces numerous obstacles and personal tragedy but manages to find strength within herself to overcome them.

Ripley’s character in the Alien franchise has left an indelible mark on the portrayal of strong women in movies. Her embodiment of courage, resilience, and intelligence continues to inspire audiences and serve as a catalyst for more films featuring powerful female protagonists.

Black Panther (2018) – Nakia, Shuri, Okoye, Ramonda

While not the main characters, the women in Black Panther play significant roles, showcasing their strength, intelligence, and power. Nakia, Shuri, Okoye, and Ramonda are all inspiring and formidable in their own right. Shuri, in particular, stands out as a genius inventor who utilizes her skills for the greater good. These women-centric characters contribute immensely to the story of Black Panther, highlighting the importance of their abilities and contributions.

Black Panther is an empowering movie featuring a feminist narrative. It presents a refreshing perspective on women’s strength, agency, and leadership, challenging traditional gender norms. The film portrays powerful female characters who are unapologetically independent, showcasing their capabilities and resilience. Through the portrayal of these strong women, Black Panther celebrates female empowerment and exemplifies the importance of women-centric movies.

Noteworthy Women in Black Panther:

These remarkable characters exemplify the strength, intelligence, and courage of women, contributing to the overall narrative of Black Panther. The film serves as a powerful example of women-centric movies that celebrate the empowerment and resilience of women.

Cinderella (1950) – Cinderella (Ilene Woods)

In the classic animated film Cinderella, the titular character, played by Ilene Woods, may not be the first character that comes to mind when thinking about strong women in movies. However, Cinderella’s story is a testament to the power of resilience and determination in the face of adversity. Despite years of abuse and mistreatment, Cinderella remains kind-hearted and unwavering in her pursuit of happiness.

Cinderella’s strength lies not only in her ability to endure hardship but also in her unwavering belief in herself. She holds onto her dreams and refuses to let her circumstances define her. This inspirational movie about a young woman overcoming obstacles serves as a reminder that strength can come in many forms.

“No matter how your heart is grieving, if you keep on believing, the dream that you wish will come true.” – Cinderella

The Danish Girl (2015) – Lili Elbe, Gerda Wegener

The Danish Girl is a moving film that tells the true story of Lili Elbe and her wife Gerda Wegener. Lili, portrayed by Eddie Redmayne, was one of the first known recipients of gender confirmation surgery, and her journey towards self-acceptance is both inspiring and poignant. Throughout the film, Lili’s strength and resilience shine through as she navigates a society that often fails to understand and support her.

Gerda, portrayed by Alicia Vikander, is a vital part of Lili’s story. Her unwavering love and support demonstrate the power of acceptance and the strength that can be found within relationships. Gerda’s journey alongside Lili is a testament to the resilience of women, showing that their empowerment can extend far beyond personal goals and aspirations.

“I love you because you are the only person who made sense of me. And made me possible.” – Gerda Wegener

This film is a powerful portrayal of the challenges faced by transgender individuals, shedding light on their experiences and the importance of empathy and acceptance. The Danish Girl not only showcases the strength and inner fortitude of Lili and Gerda but also encourages conversations about inclusivity and understanding.

Erin Brockovich (2000) – Erin Brockovich (Julia Roberts)

Erin Brockovich, portrayed by Julia Roberts, is a force to be reckoned with. She possesses a unique combination of grit, determination, and genuine care for others. Erin’s ability to connect with people and pursue justice showcases her strength as she uncovers the truth and fights for what is right. This film celebrates the power of one woman to make a difference.

Erin Brockovich is based on the true story of a legal clerk who took on a major power company accused of contaminating the water supply in a small town. With her tenacity and compassion, Erin overcomes obstacles and empowers the community she fights for. The film portrays the strength and determination of women who refuse to back down in the face of injustice.

“I’m smart, I’m hardworking, and I’ll do whatever it takes to support my family. I do not need a job – I already have one!” – Erin Brockovich

Erin’s character resonates with audiences as she challenges societal expectations and empowers those around her. Her relentless pursuit of the truth not only secures justice for the affected community but also inspires others to stand up for what’s right.

Key Themes in Erin Brockovich:

• Female empowerment and strength
• Fighting for justice
• The power of one individual to make a difference
• Challenging societal expectations

Erin Brockovich serves as a reminder that even in the face of adversity, women can harness their strengths, create change, and empower others. This film continues to inspire audiences with its portrayal of a strong woman who fights for truth, justice, and the greater good.

Captain Marvel (2019) – Carol Danvers aka Captain Marvel (Brie Larson)

Captain Marvel is a groundbreaking movie that defies stereotypes and empowers women. The film introduces Carol Danvers, also known as Captain Marvel, portrayed by the talented Brie Larson. In this extraordinary superhero story, Carol breaks the mold of traditional gender norms, boldly showcasing her confidence and strength. She embraces her abilities and uses them to save the world, proving that women are capable of being powerful heroes.

Captain Marvel challenges gendered expectations by presenting Carol as a hero in her own right. With her determination and resilience, she overcomes obstacles and fights for justice. The movie celebrates female empowerment and elevates the representation of strong women in films.

Captain Marvel is a testament to the power of representation in cinema. It inspires and uplifts women by showcasing the strength and heroism of female characters. This film paves the way for more empowering movies for women, further diversifying and enriching the world of cinema.

Hidden Figures (2016) – Katherine Goble Johnson, Mary Jackson, Dorothy Vaughan

Hidden Figures is a remarkable film that tells the inspiring true story of three extraordinary African-American women: Katherine Goble Johnson, Mary Jackson, and Dorothy Vaughan. Set against the backdrop of NASA’s early space program, this movie shines a light on their invaluable contributions, showcasing their intelligence, hard work, and unwavering determination.

Despite facing racial and gender discrimination, these women defy expectations and break down barriers in a field dominated by men. Their story celebrates not only their individual achievements but also highlights the power of women working together to accomplish great things.

“I found that if I believed in myself and worked hard, I could achieve my goals.” – Katherine Goble Johnson

Katherine Goble Johnson, a brilliant mathematician, played a pivotal role in calculating the trajectories for historic space missions. Mary Jackson, with her tenacity and intelligence, became NASA’s first African-American female engineer. And Dorothy Vaughan, a visionary leader, thrived as a computer programming expert and became the first African-American supervisor at NASA.

Through their stories, Hidden Figures celebrates the resilience, perseverance, and strength of these women. Their journey serves as a testament to the importance of equal opportunities and diversity in STEM fields, inspiring future generations of women to pursue their dreams and reach for the stars.

The Power of Representation

Hidden Figures not only tells the story of these remarkable women but also serves as a reminder of the importance of representation in the media. By bringing their achievements to the forefront, this film challenges societal norms and stereotypes, paving the way for more accurate and diverse portrayals of women’s experiences in cinema.

Inspiration for Women Everywhere

Hidden Figures is a powerful testament to the potential and resilience of women, encouraging women from all walks of life to embrace their strengths and pursue their dreams. This film not only celebrates the achievements of Katherine Goble Johnson, Mary Jackson, and Dorothy Vaughan but also serves as an inspiration to women everywhere seeking empowerment and recognition.

Hidden Figures is a must-watch film that celebrates the power of women and the importance of equal opportunities in the pursuit of knowledge and success.

Holiday (1938) – Linda Seton (Katharine Hepburn)

Holiday, starring Katharine Hepburn as Linda Seton, is a classic film that challenges societal expectations for women. Linda refuses to conform to her family’s perceptions and demonstrates incredible strength of character. By standing up against those she cares about, she takes a leap of faith to build her own life based on her own principles.

In this heartwarming film, Linda Seton embodies the spirit of independence and empowerment. She epitomizes the notion of a strong woman who defies societal norms to create her own path in life. Linda’s refusal to be confined by societal expectations is a powerful message for women everywhere.

Throughout the course of the film, Linda’s determination and resilience shine through as she challenges the status quo and pursues her own happiness. Her unwavering commitment to staying true to herself and her beliefs is both inspiring and empowering.

“I’d rather have the right one, than be the right one.” – Linda Seton

These lines from the film beautifully encapsulate Linda’s defiant spirit and commitment to authenticity. She values personal fulfillment and freedom over conforming to societal norms, making her an icon of female empowerment.

The Last Jedi (2017) – Rey (Daisy Ridley)

In the Star Wars franchise, Rey, portrayed by Daisy Ridley, takes center stage as an inspiring female hero. Throughout her journey, she exemplifies strength, bravery, and self-discovery, making her a powerful role model for young girls and women.

Rey remains true to her values, challenging herself to question and grow along the way. Her unwavering convictions and determination to fight for what is right make her a fearless and empowering protagonist in the Star Wars saga.

With resilience and resourcefulness, Rey proves that gender is no barrier, breaking stereotypes and proving that women can be strong leaders and heroes in their own right. Her story is a testament to the limitless potential within every individual, regardless of their gender.

As young girls and women watch Rey’s journey unfold on screen, they are reminded of their own strength, courage, and ability to shape their destinies. Rey’s character in The Last Jedi empowers and inspires, leaving a lasting impact and encouraging women everywhere to embrace their inner power.

Selected Quotes from The Last Jedi

“I need someone to show me my place in all this.” – Rey

“The Force is not just for the Jedi. It is in everyone who has it inside.” – Rey

“I won’t be the last Jedi.” – Rey

Rey’s Attributes and Accomplishments

Conclusion

These movies about strong women provide an empowering and inspiring representation of female characters on the big screen. From science fiction to historical dramas, these films showcase the strength, intelligence, and perseverance of women from all walks of life. They challenge traditional gender roles and offer stories that celebrate female empowerment.

Watching these movies can inspire and empower women to embrace their own strength and potential. By showcasing strong women who overcome obstacles, fight for justice, and pursue their dreams, these films send a powerful message to audiences. They demonstrate that women can be powerful, brave, and resilient, and that their stories deserve to be told.

Whether it’s Ripley in Alien, Nakia, Shuri, Okoye, and Ramonda in Black Panther, or Erin Brockovich, these movies remind us of the importance of representation and the impact it can have. They give women the opportunity to see themselves as heroes, leaders, and fighters. Through the power of storytelling, these films contribute to the ongoing movement for female empowerment in films and beyond.