Gender equality and women’s resilience are represented through high-impact films
“International Women’s Day” represents women’s historic struggle for equal rights. Every year, the 8th of March brings the debate on gender equality even more to the fore. The date, recognized by the United Nations (UN) World Organization in 1977, was first referenced in 1911, after workers claimed labor rights due to the conditions in which they were subjected in a New York factory (USA). The landmark gained more strength in 1917, with the Bread and Peace march, organized by women in Russia.
To learn more about the history of the date and find out about representations of revolutionary women, it is ideal to consume different contents, including movies. So, check out 5 fact-based productions to get closer to the meaning behind the date!
1. The Suffragettes
Bringing together big names in cinema, such as Meryl Streep, the actress with the most Oscars, the drama-biographical genre film tells the story of the suffragist struggle. That is, the right to vote and be voted for. In the film, the British women’s movement is mainly highlighted. The protagonist, played by Carey Mulligan, was inspired by the life of activist Hannah Mitchell, a socialist who fought for the right of women to vote peacefully.
Where to watch: Prime Video.
2. Woman King
Starring Viola Davis, who plays the brave general Nanisca, the film portrays the story of an African army composed exclusively of women, the Agojie, in 1800. In order to protect the kingdom in which they lived, they strengthen themselves to fight their enemies. and find strength among themselves to go on. The film is still able to show the intersected struggle between gender and race.
Where to watch: Apple TV+, Prime Video, Google Play Movies & TV and Now.
3. Persepolis
Based on a French animation, the film is an introduction to the struggle of Iranian women, which persists until the current days. The story follows the life of author Marjane Satrapi, born in Iran, who experienced the decline of women’s rights in the country. In Austria, she describes the contrast of lifestyle and gender achievements in Europe and her homeland.
Where to watch: Google Play Movies & TV and YouTube.
4. Nise: The Heart of Madness
The national feature film stars Glória Pires and tells the revolutionary story of a psychiatrist who treated patients through art in the 20th century, opposing all violent methods, such as electroshock. Nise, born in Alagoas, is internationally recognized for her humanized contributions within medicine.
Where to watch: Netflix.
5. Eternally Paid
One of the great women of the Brazilian modernist movement, Patrícia Rehder Galvão, known as Pagu, was a writer, journalist, designer, poet and, among many other attributes, was the face of a fight against the conservative system of the 20th century in Brazil. Arrested more than twenty times for the activity she carried out at the time, contrary to the expected behavior of women in Brazilian society, Pagu is a symbol of female resistance.
Where to watch: Prime Video and YouTube.
Source: Maxima
I am an experienced author and journalist with a passion for lifestyle journalism. I currently work for Buna Times, one of the leading news websites in the world. I specialize in writing stories about health, wellness, fashion, beauty, interior design, and more. My articles have been featured on major publications such as The Guardian and The Huffington Post.