Written by Andrea Redman, W*SS Social Work Intern
Women have always played a pivotal role in shaping the film industry, though their contributions have often been overlooked. From early trailblazers like Alice Guy-Blache, one of the first women filmmakers, to stars like Audrey Hepburn or Zendaya, who challenge the limitations of women’s roles in Hollywood, women have consistently fought to be seen and heard. However, the recognition has come in slow waves, particularly at the Oscars where gender inequality has been a persistent issue.
Despite these challenges, there has been significant progress. Women like Kathryn Bigelow, Chloe Zhao, and Jane Campion, Oscar winners of Best Director in 2009, 2021, and 2022 respectfully, marked crucial moments in Oscar history. The 2025 Oscars continued this momentum, celebrating not only the performances of women, but also the growing influence of female filmmakers behind the camera. Though I do believe there should’ve been more women taking home awards, there’s no denying that the women were the talk of the town this awards season.
Oftentimes, women were made to play stereotypical roles whether it be a helpless woman or a desirable love interest. The feminist movements in the 1960’s and 1970’s helped push for more complex roles. Women’s experiences were pushed to the forefront, providing a platform for their stories to be heard. Films like The Substance highlight the effects agism, misogyny, and societal expectations have on women, showing how far the industry has come in embracing feminist narratives.
As we reflect on Women’s History Month, it is clear that while we’ve made great strides, the journey to equality is far from over. There is hope that the achievements of women in film inspire future generations to keep pushing for more representation and opportunities in the entertainment industry.
Comments