We’ve all probably heard at one time or another that women can’t hold their own. Based in a women’s historically subservient place in society, this belief is still held by many people today, including other women who don’t have the confidence to embrace the truth. For much too long, women were portrayed in films as damsels in distress or mere trophies to be won at the end of an arduous battle.
Not until recently have female characters been given the chance to save planets, kill monsters and stand up against their oppressors. In order to convince all women that they can do anything they put their minds to, more films need to feature women as badass heroines. The following films are just a place to start.
1. Thelma & Louise (1991)
Susan Sarandon and Geena Davis will steal your hearts in this landmark feminist road trip adventure. While the film isn’t packed with action, you’ll get a taste of some scarily real situations women face every day.
2. Mad Max: Fury Road (2015)
If the ten Academy Award nominations don’t spark your interest, Charlize Theron’s character, Imperator Furiosa, should convince you to give this futuristic film a chance. In what other movie will you see six women flee across a desert and face death head-on while combating multiple warring groups?
3. Ghostbusters (2016)
We all know remakes of classic movies can be cringeworthy and not worth our attention, but this all-female version of Ghostbusters starring Melissa McCarthy, Kate McKinnon, Leslie Jones and Kristen Wiig won’t disappoint.
4. Wonder Woman (2017)
If you haven’t seen this life-changing film yet, all you need to know is that Gal Gadot filmed multiple action scenes while pregnant and that’s real life. See. This. Movie.
5. G.I. Jane (1997)
Dealing with themes of gender equality and discrimination, G.I. Jane is a movie that’ll make you more proud to be a woman than you already are. Demi Moore proves that nothing separates men from women in the the danger zone.
6. Set It Off (1996)
With a notable cast including Jada Pinkett Smith and Queen Latifah, this crime action film touches upon the disheartening challenges women endure when they must provide for their families. However, we don’t endorse robbing a bank as the best way to obtain the necessary funds.
7. Bandidas (2006)
With a 19th century Mexican setting, this western action comedy brings together two women of very different backgrounds, played by Salma Hayek and Penélope Cruz. In order to save their town from its ruthless leader, they take to robbing a bank and eventually learn to trust one another.