Must-See Films By Women Directors

Add these screen gems, directed by some of the best women directors in the film industry, to your summer viewing list

In 1896, Alice Guy Blaché became the first female director in the film industry. Her work has been pivotal in creating space for women in a male-dominated industry. Today, Hollywood is filled with accomplished women who have directed some of the most brilliant films of the 21st century.

While movies like Barbie and Wonder Woman have been watched by everyone, here are some other must-see films by women directors. After checking out Slotozilla online free slots demos, we suggest exploring these films as another enjoyable pastime option.

Jeanne Dielman, 23 Quai du Commerce, 1080 Bruxelles (1975)

Director: Chantal Akerman

The 2022 Sight and Sound Greatest Films of All Time Poll revealed this 1975 film by Chantal Akerman to be in the first position. This is the first time a women-directed movie reached the top ten titles on the poll, let alone the number one spot. Considered mostly unconventional, the film revolves around a widowed woman who spends a lonely life in her apartment, working through daily chores and caring for her teenage son. Driven by financial troubles, she’s forced to pursue prostitution in hopes of making ends meet.

Many regard the film as being a groundbreaking cinematic masterpiece for its representation of the struggles of a woman’s life. Even decades after its release, the movie is regarded as one of the best films ever directed by a woman. Sites like IndieWire have also referred to it as one of the most important films ever made, as it masterfully represents the oppression that hides within the mundane of everyday life. Just like the popular free slots in casinos, the audience has placed their bets on this film as well.

Portrait of a Lady on Fire (2019)

Director: Céline Sciamma

This slow-burn romance film follows the story of two French women, one of whom is an artist commissioned to paint the other woman, her subject. The goal was for the artist to paint a portrait of the other woman without her knowledge, for which she had to observe her secretly. The BAFTA-nominated film is regarded as a beautiful depiction of how two people fall in love and find their way to each other.

Lady Bird (2017)

Director: Greta Gerwig

Barbie was not the first Gerwig film to receive popularity due to its brilliance. In the past few years, Gerwig has made a name as one of the most talented female filmmakers in the movie industry. Starring Saoirse Ronan, Lady Bird is a coming-of-age film about a teenage high school senior as she navigates her way through the ups and downs of life and relationships. Her only motives are: getting into a prestigious college and becoming popular.

The film’s plot is a familiar story for everyone watching, but Gerwig’s effortless and unique storytelling style paints it in a distinct light. Productions like these emphasize why Gerwig is deserving of all the praise she currently gets.

Clueless (1995)

Director: Amy Heckerling

Clueless is one of the best productions to come out of the ‘90s chick-flick era, and it’s no surprise that a female director was behind this knockout of a film. The movie is a modern adaptation of the Jane Austen novel ‘Emma,’ and is equally entertaining for a contemporary audience and fans of the classic story.

The story revolves around Cher, a rich and famous high school student playing matchmaker in the lives of the people around her. The film has inspired a whole generation of internet memes and is easily one of the most influential romantic comedies of all time.

The Matrix (1999)

Directors: Lana Wachowski, Lilly Wachowski

The Matrix is one of the most renowned films of all time, and no one can deny its impact on modern cinema. Not everyone might have been aware of the women behind its direction, but almost everyone has had a chance to take in the sheer brilliance of this film. References from the series make their way into pop culture even 25 years after its release, which simply speaks to its talent.

The sister duo has also directed the recent films in the franchise, which is why they can be regarded as extremely important for the 21st-century Hollywood industry. If jam-packed action and sci-fi are elements right up your alley, then The Matrix is a must-see.

Honourable Mentions

Creating a limited list of the best female-directed films is a challenging task, mainly because there are so many ingenious and inventive options to explore. Here are just some of the movies that didn’t make it into our top list but still deserve an honourable mention. And if you’re intrigued by a gambling scene in any of the female-directed films on our list, you can follow the link to immerse yourself fully in the story.

Final Thoughts

The movie industry continues to be male-dominated, especially when it comes to common practices and the difference in opportunities provided to men and women. However, female directors continue to make their mark with extraordinary films that defy conventional plotlines and character developments.

While we listed just some of the best female-directed films out there, there are also a plethora of other movies that you must watch at least once in your lifetime. The art that female directors put out deserves to be celebrated and praised because it is just that magnificent!

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