Step into the shadowy world of psychological tension and societal critique with our curated list of 10 thrilling films that delve into the pervasive issue of sexism. These movies not only entertain but also provoke thought, challenging viewers to reflect on gender dynamics and the impact of misogyny. Whether you're a fan of suspense, social commentary, or just looking for a gripping narrative, this collection promises to be both enlightening and engaging.

The Color Purple (1985)
Description: This adaptation of Alice Walker's novel explores the life of Celie, an African-American woman in the early 20th century, facing racism and sexism, highlighting her journey towards self-discovery and empowerment.
Fact: The film was nominated for 11 Academy Awards but won none, sparking controversy over its lack of recognition.


The Handmaid's Tale (1990)
Description: Based on Margaret Atwood's dystopian novel, this film portrays a society where women are stripped of their rights, reduced to mere vessels for childbirth, highlighting extreme sexism and control over women's bodies.
Fact: The film was released before the book became widely recognized, making it an early adaptation of a now-iconic story.


Thelma & Louise (1991)
Description: This iconic road movie about two women on the run from the law after a series of unfortunate events, delves into themes of female friendship, empowerment, and the fight against patriarchal oppression.
Fact: The film's ending was controversial, with many praising its boldness while others criticized its perceived nihilism.


Monster (2003)
Description: Patty Jenkins' directorial debut features Charlize Theron as Aileen Wuornos, a woman who turns to prostitution and murder, highlighting the societal and personal factors that push her to the edge, including the sexism she faces.
Fact: Theron won an Academy Award for Best Actress for her transformative performance.


The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (2011)
Description: This film adaptation of Stieg Larsson's novel features a hacker, Lisbeth Salander, who confronts the dark underbelly of sexism and misogyny while investigating a decades-old disappearance. Her personal battles with abuse and discrimination make this a poignant addition to our list.
Fact: The film's title in Swedish, "Män som hatar kvinnor," translates to "Men Who Hate Women," which directly reflects the theme of sexism.


The Invisible Woman (2013)
Description: This film tells the story of Charles Dickens' secret relationship with a young actress, exploring themes of power imbalance and the societal expectations placed on women in the Victorian era.
Fact: The film was directed by Ralph Fiennes, who also stars as Dickens, adding a layer of authenticity to the portrayal.


Gone Girl (2014)
Description: David Fincher's adaptation of Gillian Flynn's novel explores the toxic dynamics of a marriage, where sexism plays a central role in the psychological warfare between the characters. The film's twisty plot and complex characters make it a standout thriller.
Fact: The film's ending was kept a secret from the public until its release, adding to the suspense and surprise.


The Burning Bed (1984)
Description: Based on a true story, this TV movie follows Francine Hughes, who sets fire to her abusive husband's bed, exploring the extreme measures taken by women to escape domestic violence and sexism.
Fact: The film helped raise awareness about domestic abuse and led to changes in laws regarding self-defense in cases of domestic violence.


The Stepford Wives (1975)
Description: A chilling tale of a seemingly perfect suburban community where men replace their wives with submissive robots, this film satirizes and critiques the extreme form of sexism and the objectification of women.
Fact: The film was remade in 2004 with a more comedic tone, but the original remains a stark commentary on gender roles.


The Piano (1993)
Description: Jane Campion's film about a mute woman in 19th-century New Zealand, whose piano becomes a symbol of her autonomy and resistance against the oppressive expectations of her husband, touches on themes of sexism and control.
Fact: The film won the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival, making Campion the first woman to win the award.
