Netflix has made yet another grab at trying to showcase feminist ideals in its newest film, Moxie. This movie, which was released in early March, follows a teen feminist, Vivian, as she tries to change the misogynistic undertones of her high school. By following her mother’s radical feminist past, Vivian creates an anonymous zine that calls out the problems she finds in her school. After forming friendships with various strong girls, Vivian is able to learn more about the fight for social change and how she can be a part of it.
Personally, I had read the novel this movie is based on while I was in high school, so when the film version was released, I knew I had to watch it. Now that I am in college, I realize the book and film have certain pros and cons to them. Regardless, I would recommend this movie to any girl who has felt she has been unheard, and here are some reasons why this film is an interesting watch.
1. Diversity
As the film progresses, we are introduced to a cast of characters that truly encapsulates what the American school system looks like. We see students of many different races, sexualities, body types, and ethnicities. Although to some this fact might seem unimportant, this type of representation matters because it showcases how all people live rather than just a select few.
2. Representation Within the Cast
Throughout the majority of Hollywood, we see that diverse characters are often played by actors who do not fit the identities they are portraying. However, in Moxie, we are shown a transgender character who is played by a transgender actor. Josie Totah, who is an acclaimed transgender actress, plays the role of CJ, a trans student who vocalizes her struggles with being “out” in high school. Again, this somewhat minor plot detail might mean little to some people, but it is monumental to many trans youth who are trying to find their way in society.
3. Lack of Intersectionality
Although this film tries to present feminist ideals, it is somewhat lacking in regard to intersectionality. For those unaware, the term “intersectional feminism” refers to the idea that feminism must include and celebrate the diverse identities of all women. Therefore, Moxie lacked in this department. Although there were loads of diversity presented, they were not celebrated as they should have been. Specifically, our main character, Vivian, only focused on feminist issues that fit her existence. She tackled the ideas of rape culture, over-sexualization of young girls, and disparities between male to female athletics, but she avoided, and often ignored, problems that women of color faced. When her best friend Claudia, who was Asian American and had strict immigrant parents, tried to explain to Vivian that she could not partake in their “feminist revolution” because of the pressure her parents placed on her, Vivian called her a coward. In reality, Vivian should have taken the time to consider the cultural ramifications Claudia was expressing. This is just one example, but there are loads of others where Vivian, who is supposed to be our powerful feminist heroine, disregards the plights of women of color.
4. Feels Real
Even though Moxie is not perfect, it does feel very real and relatable. The concepts of strict dress codes and harassment from male classmates are things that almost every girl can relate to. Also, Vivian feels like a very real teenage girl. Although her lack of intersectionality is frustrating, it is a very real thing that many girls go through in their search for feminism. Young girls often start their feminist journey in areas that they understand. However, as time progresses, they should start to branch out and educate themselves on broader issues that may not directly impact them. Therefore, Vivian is real. She is a 16-year-old girl who is frustrated with how her world is, so she is trying to change it. She may not be perfect, but none of us are.