In a certain sense, film is transformative. It acts as a looking glass through which we can see the narratives and perspectives of other people reflected back at us. When deepening the intersection of one’s identities, one can also see themselves from time to time.
Women’s History Month gives you the perfect opportunity to celebrate and amplify women-centric perspectives through the beauty of good movies. Without further ado, here is my list of movies I think everyone should watch this month (or whenever because March is ending soon and, thankfully, these movies have no expiration date).
1. the half of it
If you’ve enjoyed examples of classic literature being revamped in a modern setting in the past such as Easy A, this Cyrano-inspired sapphic coming-of-age story will tug at your heartstrings. Watch it on Netflix.
2. hidden figures
Based on a true story, Hidden Figures highlights black female mathematicians and their calculations integral to the early stages of NASA. Beautifully told and acted, this movie is a joyful watch that illuminates a history often untold in traditional history classes. Watch it on Disney+.
3. Brittany runs a marathon
This is a case where the title of the movie is a summary of the movie itself. A woman living in New York embarks on a quest for self-improvement by training for a marathon. Funny, smart, and nuanced, this movie captures the struggles of self-improvement by uplifting without being preachy. Watch it on Amazon Prime.
4. plan b
Based on the political backdrop of various efforts in the US to curb access to birth control and abortion, two teenagers in South Dakota have 24 hours to get a Plan B pill in this comedy. I recognize that my synopsis sounds heavy, but the movie itself is an enjoyable coming-of-age story. Watch it on Hulu.
5. tangerine
Shot on an iPhone, this 2015 film tells the story of a trans sex worker and her best friend who search for her boyfriend after she finds out he’s been cheating on her with another woman. A dark comedy, this film takes you on an odyssey-like journey through LA. Watch it on Netflix.