During her acceptance speech for Best Supporting Actress in If Beale Street Could Talk at this year’s Golden Globes, Regina King promised that every movie she will produce in the next two years will comprise 50% women in both casting and production. Of the top 100 grossing films in 2017, women only comprised 24% of protagonists. This was down 5% from 2016. Additionally, women generally only amount to about 37% of major characters and 34% of all speaking characters in movies. The Bechdel test functions to measure the representation of women in fiction. Although it started out as a joke between friends, in recent years it has grown to become a true standard by which critics judge literature, television, and movies. The rules are relatively simple: the movie must have at least two (named) female characters in it who talk about something other than a man. Unfortunately, this criterion is not as common as you may think. Additionally, many movies that do meet the mark still lack meaningful dialogue between female characters. There continues to be a noticeable deficiency of female representation in film. So here’s a list of 10 movies that accomplish more than simply passing the Bechdel Test.
On the Basis of Sex: It wouldn’t seem right for a movie about the life and work of Ruth Bader Ginsburg to not pass the Bechdel Test. This movie explores Ginsburg’s struggle to achieve recognition and success in a professional field largely dominated by men. Additionally, it provides its audience with insight into Ginsburg’s family life, especially her relationship with her daughter.
Whiskey Tango Foxtrot: one word: Tina Fey (well I guess that’s two words).
The Sound of Music: Early on in the film (or play), Maria is convinced by the Mother Abbess to work for the Von Trapp Family. This leads her to reconsider her life goals. Additionally, Maria does not shy away from questioning Captain Von Trapp’s parenting ways. However, Maria isn’t the only strong female figure throughout the movie. The Mother Abbess, the Baroness, and the eldest Von Trapp child Liesel are all named female characters that largely impact the plot of the movie.
The Favourite: If you’re looking for a movie with three badass, strong, and crazy female characters, The Favourite will not disappoint!
Lady Bird: If you’re tired of movies that only focus on father-son relationships then Lady Bird is the movie for you! This film explores the relationship between “Lady Bird” and her mother, Marion McPherson. Marion struggles to provide for her family after her husband loses his job. While “Lady Bird” struggles to find herself throughout her senior year of high school.
Hush: Looking for a psychological thriller, but still want to support your fellow ladies? Then Hush is your perfect Friday night movie. Although main character Maddie is deaf, her neighbor Sarah comes to visit and tells Maddie how she wants to improve her sign language. The two also talk about dinner and the book Maddie is working on. Additionally, Maddie has a conversation with her sister Max over FaceTime.
The Princess Diaries: In case the Anne Hathaway-Julie Andrews duo isn’t reason enough, The Princess Diaries passes the Bechdel Test on a number of accounts. First off, there are at least five named female characters: Princess Mia Thermopolis, her mom Helen, her best friend Lily, her nemesis Lana, and of course her grandmother Queen Clarisse Renaldi. The majority of the movie’s dialogue surrounds these characters and their conversations rarely regard a man.
Mean Girls: Have I mentioned Tina Fey yet?!?
Frozen: Whether you’re planning a Disney Movie Night with your best friends, babysitting your five-year-old niece, or just looking for a wholesome movie, Frozen has got you covered! Although an aspect of the movie is Anna’s relationship with Hans, it also emphasizes the importance of strong sibling relationships.
The Help: This book adapted into a film, fails the reverse Bechdel test. No two men ever talk to each other. Not only does this movie focus on women, but it also depicts the very real and disturbing realities of black women, specifically in the 1960s.
~Katie~
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