100 Inspiring Films for Women and About Women

Description: This film is based on the true story of the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League formed during World War II. It's a celebration of women stepping up to fill roles traditionally held by men, showcasing their athletic prowess and spirit.

Fact: The film was inspired by a documentary, "A League of Their Own," which was produced by PBS.

Description: This film explores the complex relationships between Chinese-American women and their immigrant mothers, delving into themes of cultural identity, heritage, and the strength of familial bonds.

Fact: The film was based on Amy Tan's best-selling novel and was one of the first major Hollywood films to feature an all-Asian cast.

Description: This biographical film captures the life of Frida Kahlo, a Mexican artist known for her vibrant paintings and tumultuous personal life. Her resilience in the face of physical and emotional pain is a profound lesson in perseverance.

Fact: Salma Hayek, who played Frida, was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actress, becoming the first Mexican actress to be nominated in that category.

Description: Julia Roberts stars as Erin Brockovich, a single mother who takes on a corporate giant in a David vs. Goliath battle. Her tenacity and refusal to back down in the face of injustice make this film a powerful testament to the strength of women.

Fact: Julia Roberts won an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role, and the film was nominated for four other Oscars.

Description: Set in New Zealand, this film follows a young Maori girl who challenges the traditions of her tribe to become the next chief. Her determination to prove her worth against all odds is both inspiring and moving.

Fact: The film was adapted from the novel of the same name by Witi Ihimaera, and it won numerous awards, including the Audience Award at Sundance Film Festival.

Description: While not a traditional empowerment story, this film highlights the journey of a young woman navigating the cutthroat world of fashion journalism, learning to assert herself and find her voice in a high-pressure environment.

Fact: The character of Miranda Priestly, played by Meryl Streep, was loosely based on Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour.

Description: Meryl Streep delivers an unforgettable performance as Margaret Thatcher, Britain's first female Prime Minister. The film explores her rise to power and her impact on British politics, showcasing her iron will and leadership.

Fact: Meryl Streep won her third Academy Award for Best Actress for this role, making her the most awarded actress in the history of the Oscars.

Description: Set in the 1960s, this film explores the lives of African-American maids working in white households in Mississippi. Their stories of courage, friendship, and the fight for equality are both heart-warming and inspiring.

Fact: The film was nominated for four Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and won the Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture.

Description: This film delves into the fight for women's right to vote in early 20th-century Britain. It showcases the determination and sacrifices made by women to secure a fundamental right, making it a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggle for equality.

Fact: The film was the first to be shot in the Houses of Parliament in London, highlighting the historical significance of the suffragette movement.

Description: This film tells the true story of three African-American women at NASA who were instrumental in the success of the space program. Their intelligence, determination, and courage in the face of adversity make this an inspiring watch for women everywhere.

Fact: The film was nominated for three Academy Awards, including Best Picture. It was also the first film ever to be screened at the White House during Barack Obama's presidency.