If you loved the gritty, rebellious spirit of 'The Female Bunch' (1971), this list is for you. Dive into 10 similar movies and shows that capture the same raw energy, female-driven narratives, and unapologetic action. Whether you're a fan of cult classics or crave more fierce, unconventional stories, these picks will keep you hooked.

The Big Doll House (1971)
Description: A gritty exploitation film set in a women's prison, featuring strong female leads navigating brutal conditions and forming alliances. The raw, unflinching portrayal of survival and rebellion aligns with similar themes.
Fact: The film was shot in the Philippines, capitalizing on low production costs and exotic locales. It helped popularize the 'women in prison' subgenre in the 1970s.


Women in Cages (1971)
Description: A brutal depiction of life in a women's prison, focusing on survival, betrayal, and camaraderie. The harsh setting and strong female characters align closely with the themes of the reference.
Fact: The film was part of a wave of women-in-prison movies produced in the Philippines during the early 1970s. It features a standout performance by Pam Grier as a ruthless warden.


The Big Bird Cage (1972)
Description: Another women-in-prison exploitation film with a mix of action, drama, and dark humor. The dynamic between the female inmates and their struggle against corrupt authority figures is a key similarity.
Fact: The film's title was a marketing ploy and has little to do with the actual plot. It was one of several collaborations between director Jack Hill and Pam Grier.


The Arena (1974)
Description: Centers on women forced into gladiatorial combat, blending action with themes of female empowerment and resistance against oppression. The visceral fight scenes and feminist undertones mirror the tone of the reference.
Fact: Pam Grier was originally considered for the lead role. The film was marketed as a 'sexploitation' piece but is more focused on action and drama.


The Daring Dobermans (1973)
Description: An action-packed film featuring a team of highly trained dogs and their handlers, with a focus on teamwork and overcoming adversity. While not female-centric, the themes of loyalty and rebellion resonate similarly.
Fact: The film was a sequel to 'The Doberman Gang' and capitalized on the popularity of animal-centric action movies in the 1970s. It was marketed as a family-friendly action film.


The Doll Squad (1973)
Description: Features a team of highly skilled women taking on a global terrorist threat, blending action with espionage. The focus on female agency and combat prowess is a strong parallel.
Fact: The film is often cited as a precursor to 'Charlie's Angels.' It was directed by Ted V. Mikels, known for his low-budget, high-concept films.


Candy Stripe Nurses (1974)
Description: A blend of exploitation and drama, focusing on the lives of young nurses navigating personal and professional challenges. The mix of titillation and female-centric storytelling aligns with the tone of the reference.
Fact: The film was part of Roger Corman's 'nurses' series, which aimed to capitalize on the success of similar exploitation films. It features a mix of comedy, drama, and risqué elements.


Foxy Brown (1974)
Description: A revenge-driven action film with a fierce female protagonist taking down a criminal syndicate. The unapologetic strength and resilience of the lead character echo similar themes.
Fact: The character of Foxy Brown was originally intended to be a sequel to 'Coffy,' but the studio decided to make it a standalone film. It became one of Pam Grier's most iconic roles.


The Swinging Cheerleaders (1974)
Description: A satirical take on the cheerleading subculture, blending humor with social commentary. The focus on female characters and their subversion of expectations is a key similarity.
Fact: The film was marketed as a sex comedy but includes sharp critiques of gender roles and commercialization in sports. It was one of the more lighthearted entries in the exploitation genre.


Switchblade Sisters (1975)
Description: A gritty, action-packed story about a female gang navigating violence and power struggles. The raw energy, female-centric narrative, and street-level drama make it a fitting companion.
Fact: The film was initially a box office flop but gained a cult following years later. Quentin Tarantino has cited it as one of his favorite exploitation films.
