The stories we see in movies have the power to shape how we see ourselves and ,often, I reflect on their impact in life. Does art mimic life or does life imitate art? In my last post we explored recognizing the “ugly” parts of ourselves. Today, we’re taking a turn— one that is all about empowerment and womanhood. It is my hope that this post can serve as a reminder of our greatness and be a source of inspiration in a time when it feels greatly needed.

We Do, Break Barriers!

There are many movies out there of people overcoming obstacles, but when you see a story of rising to the top, even when the world isn’t set up for them, it brings in a new sense of inspiration. These movies highlight how we challenge societal norms, gender roles, all while overcoming the judgement and pressure that comes with it. Whether they make us fall over laughing or challenge our perspective, these films can remind us that breaking barriers isn’t only about ambition— it’s about rewriting the rules.

Mona Lisa Smile (2003) Directed by Mike Newell

This movie follows Katherine Watson (Julia Roberts) as she is hired to teach at an all-female college. When she’s there she feels called to expand the minds of her students beyond the societal norms they’ve been conditioned to. This film explores what it meant to be a woman in the 1950s, yet many of those societal ideals still persist today. For some, this remains a reality. (And is it just me, or do these outdated ideologies seem to be creeping back into the mainstream?) However, when people like Katherine come into your life and show you there is more to life than what has been set in front of you, it not only allows you to reach for more but it also allows you to stand on your own pillar. This movie weaves in stories of love, loss, connection, and acceptance into one that I feel can bring a sense of uplifting in many.

Down With Love (2003) Directed by Payton Reed

This movie is satirical and one that will have you giggling, but also stands firmly on it’s message of feminine power. Barbara Novak (Renee Zellweger) is a feminist who writes a best selling novel that takes the world by storm. (what a dream huh?) Her book encourages women to prioritize their independence and be “down with love”—an idea that was revolutionary in the 1960’s and an concept we see spreading again as of recent, in its own modern way. With her fame peaking, she finds herself in a peculiar place of being a martyr for feminism but a pariah to men who are threatened by her progressive views. Among these men is one in particular, Catcher Block (Ewan McGregor) who wants to expose her as a fraud. I’ll leave it there, but this movie is definitely enjoyable and surprising! Overall, it does a good job at highlighting some of the absurdities in traditional gender roles that might be eye opening in the contrast of today’s growing progressive nature.

Little Women (literally either version)

(1994) Directed by Gillian Armstrong

(2019) Directed by Greta Gerwig

Little Women is a classic story, adapted by the novel written from Louisa May Alcott, that belongs on every list! It’s a true story that challenges those same absurdities but also ties in camaraderie and strong bond of sisterhood. Whether you have blood sisters or sisters by choice, this is a reminder of how important the support of other women is. The story largely follows Jo March who aspires to be a writer and is adamant about keeping that her sole purpose. While many of the other sisters are encouraged to get married, and even excited about the prospects, Jo seems to be on the outskirts with her only focus being on her career. I think this, again, highlights how passions are meant for everyone and should be honored. It’s stories like these, from decades ago, that show you how many barriers have been broken so we can even experience what we have now. It’s also stories like these that show us how important it is to keep highlighting how important breaking barriers is, so we can continue to inspire women to keep knocking them down.

We Know, That’s Not “Ladylike”!

From a young age, many of us are taught to “act appropriately”. Meanwhile, men are often granted the freedom to be unruly— excused by phrases like “boys will be boys”. Why should behavior be defined by gender? These next recommendations challenge those expectations, showing that women aren’t perfect (no one is!) and deserve the same space to be loud, messy and unapologetically themselves.

One of Them Days (2025) Directed by Lawrence Lamont

This is a newer comedy that came out early this year, but still has many undertones of women empowerment and showcases the need to take up space. Dreux (Keke Palmer) and Alyssa (SZA) are not just strong women— They are Black women constantly met with obstacles and roadblocks as they try to get through an “ordinary” day. As they try to find a way to pay their rent after Alyssa’s boyfriend steals their money, the two find themselves in precarious situations, some of which are life threatening! However, the theme in this movie is about more than rent. It sheds light on the expectations placed on women, the challenges of marginalization, and the struggle to escape circumstances beyond one’s control.

Girl Interrupted (1999) Directed by James Mangold

Discovering this film as a teenager shifted something in me. Navigating girlhood to adulthood can feel overwhelming and even isolating, something that I felt this story captured with raw honesty. I know that there are people out there who may use this movie to glamorize mental health, but this film explores some of the darker sides of being human that I believe to be necessary. This story follows the real experience of Susanna Kaysen (played by Winona Ryder) adapted by her book, of the same name. Susanna is sent to a psychiatric hospital where she meets a group of women who change her perspective. The movie explores her struggle with mental health and also how it relates to what is considered “being normal”. It’s a fascinating film, but also touches on the importance of mental health being treated properly and what can happen if it’s not. Beneath the film’s raw depiction of mental illness is a silent truth: the immense pressure for women to be perfect, not as they are, but as they’re expected to me.

Bend It Like Beckham (2002) Directed by Gurinder Chadha

I watched this movie on repeat as a child. I wasn’t even a fan of sports related things, but something about this story resonated. Reminiscing on it now, I think it’s because it was female led and broke stereotypes! Jess Bhamra (Parminder Nagra), comes from a Sikh family, that definitely wants her to follow the traditional and more “admirable” path of marriage and a high brow career. However, she wants to be a professional soccer player. In this film she finds it hard to balance the two lives and is forced to choose the right path for her. This film is a good example of the expectations that family, culture, and society has on women and ultimately highlighting the importance to stand up for yourself and what you want as a woman.

We Do, Celebrate Femininity.

Before we wrap up, let’s take a moment to celebrate the joys of femininity— not as an expectation but as a choice! These next stories are all about having fun and embracing the playfulness that comes with womanhood. It’s okay to be silly, flirty, and fun— as long as no one is forcing you to do so.

Drop Dead Gorgeous (1999) Directed by Michael Patrick Jann

This is such a fun and, to me, underrated must watch when it comes to “chick-flicks”. The story follows a beauty pageant in a small town in Minnesota and its top contenders. Throughout the story we see competitiveness and in a humorous way the ugliness of pitting women against each other. In addition to the tension between the girls, it seems that one after the other there are bizarre incidents aimed at the contestants. While this movie leans heavily into satire, it offers an interesting critique on the way society fixates on appearance before anything else they have to offer. There is also an easiness and positivity to Kirsten Dunst character, Amber, that even when the odds are against her she remains positive and strong willed. It’s a simple reminder to face every problem in life with the strength of a woman!

Uptown Girls (2003) Boaz Yakin

Everyone has seen this movie, but it truly is one of those that makes you love womanhood and that connection of girl to woman. There is definitely something so sweet about the way Molly (Brittany Murphy) and Ray (Dakota Fanning) end up connecting despite their differences and obvious traumas. To me, it’s also a reflection of the connection, or lack of, we have to our inner child. An important thing to recognize in a healing journey! In this story Molly and Ray learn from each other. Molly seemingly didn’t have much structure or stability in her life, while Ray is lonely and lacking fun and connection with people her age. In the film they are able to get that from each other, but it also shows how important it is to recognize the struggles in others and just offer what we can to one another. It’s, maybe unintentionally, all about lifting others up, even when we feel down.

Confessions of a Teenage Drama Queen (2004) Directed by Sara Sugraman

Ending on a lighthearted note, this movie is a fun celebration of unapologetic girlhood and self-expression. Beyond the playful (and amazing) outfits and set-design, what I truly appreciated was how Mary (Lindsey Lohan) embraces femininity in her own unique way. This is a feat that can be difficult to achieve, not only as a young woman but also as a full adult. Watching this is just a nice boost of confidence that you can, again, stand-out and take up space! Be the drama-queen you need to get through the day!

Singing off, girly!

I hope this list has left you feeling inspired, empowered, and even more in love with being a woman. Which of these movies do you plan on watching next? Or do you have a personal favorite that celebrates women? Drop your recommendations below and let’s keep the conversation going!

Today’s song choice is a playlist I made, No Boys Allowed! Enjoy and make sure to dance around!

Love you, thank you

Rae