There’s something so satisfying about sitting down on a Friday night with a bowl (or the entire pint) of Ben and Jerry’s and watching a movie from the golden age of comedies: the late ’90s to the mid 2000s. It just so happens that many of the films that came out during this time are, in fact, feminist by nature.The main characters are typically women, but they’re not the mindless butts of crude jokes. They have developed personalities, intelligent minds and admirable aspirations of their own.
Having well-rounded female characters doesn’t make the movie any less funny – we’d say it’s quite the opposite. When the plot line goes awry, we can relate more to women who roll with the punches and own up to their mistakes, instead of women who don’t have a clue what’s going on. So if you’re in the mood for some witty, dry or situational humor, check out these feminist comedies (and you might even get a pinch of romance in some of these!).
1. Legally Blonde (2001)
Blonde hair. Pink stilettos. Sorority sister. Society has trained women to think these three ingredients can’t make a kickass Harvard lawyer, but Elle Woods proves everyone wrong, even herself.
2. Miss Congeniality (2001)
Want to know what happens when a tomboy FBI agent goes undercover as a national pageant contestant? Watch Sandra Bullock prove that you can’t underestimate a woman in a beautiful gown.
3. Bend It Like Beckham (2002)
You know a movie will be entertaining when a determined woman goes against her conservative parents to pursue her passion. And you’ll get to see a guest appearance by none other than David Beckham himself. That’s called a #treatyoself moment.
4. Stick It (2006)
Even if you’re not obsessed with gymnastics, Stick It will have you trying cartwheels on your living room floor during the credits. And there’s nothing more hilarious than the judges’ faces when the main character purposely shows her bra strap to make a point.
5. 10 Things I Hate About You (1999)
You’ll be snapping your fingers every time Julia Stiles’ character opens her mouth. And if you’re dealing with some guy trouble, you’ll definitely appreciate this line: “I guess in this society being male and an asshole makes you worthy of our time.” Yes, girl, yes.
6. Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement (2004)
Amelia Mignonette Grimaldi Thermopolis, Princess of Genovia will rule her country by herself if the law permits it or not. We promise this Princess Diaries sequel will not let you down (and neither will Chris Pine).
7. 9 to 5 (1980)
We know you’ve wanted to get back at a sexist jerk at one time or another, so get inspired by Dolly Parton and her colleagues when they gang up against their boss to make some changes around the office in favor of women.