10 Women-Led Movies To Add To Your Watchlist This Weekend

The movie industry undoubtedly has a major impact on the way ideas and stories are shared globally. 

To commemorate Women's History Month, which is observed all throughout March, Benzinga picked 10 women-led films that have not only made headlines in the entertainment industry but also inspired generations of movie-goers.

Here are our top recommendations for your watchlist:

10. The Favourite (2018): Olivia Colman, Emma Stone and Rachel Weisz star in this dark comedy-drama set in the court of Queen Anne in the early 18th century. It tells the story of two women vying for the Queen's attention, and the power struggles that arise between them. Director: Yorgos Lanthimos.

9. Mamma Mia! (2008): Based on the smash hit Broadway musical of the same name, Mamma Mia! stars Meryl Streep as a single mother who is reunited with her three long-lost daughters. This light-hearted and fun movie is sure to bring a smile to your face. Director: Phyllida Lloyd.

8. Lady Bird (2017):  This coming-of-age comedy-drama follows the journey of a young woman trying to navigate her teenage years. Saoirse Ronan stars as "Lady Bird," a rebellious high school senior who is determined to make her own path in life. Director: Greta Gerwig.

7. The Hurt Locker (2008): Jessica Chastain stars as a sergeant in the US Army’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal unit. Set during the Iraq War, this Oscar-winning war drama depicts dangerous and life-threatening situations with utmost accuracy. Director: Kathryn Bigelow.

6. The Iron Lady (2011): Streep is Margaret Thatcher in this biographical drama, which tells the story of the former British Prime Minister’s time in office and her legacy. Director: Phyllida Lloyd.

5. 9 to 5 (1980): In this classic feminist comedy, Dolly Parton, Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin star as three secretaries who are fed up with their sexist, egotistical boss. They decide to take matters into their own hands and turn the tables on him. Director: Colin Higgins.

4. Thelma & Louise (1991): Susan Sarandon and Geena Davis star as two friends who set out on a road trip and find themselves in one dangerous situation after another. This iconic movie is an empowering and inspiring story of friendship and female empowerment. Director: Ridley Scott.

3. Suffragette (2015): This historic drama tells the story of the British suffragette movement in the early 20th century and the women who fought for their right to vote. Starring Streep, Carey Mulligan and Helena Bonham Carter, this powerful movie provides a fascinating insight into the women’s rights movement. Director: Sarah Gavron.

2. Frida (2002): Salma Hayek stars in this biopic of the Mexican surrealist artist Frida Kahlo. The movie follows Kahlo’s life, from her childhood to her tumultuous marriage and her later years. Director: Julie Taymor.

1. Hidden Figures (2016): This Oscar-winning movie tells the incredible true story of three African-American women who worked at NASA in the 1960s and how they were instrumental in helping launch the first American into space. Starring Taraji P. Henson, Octavia Spencer and Janelle Monáe, this uplifting and inspiring movie is an absolute must-watch. Director: Theodore Melfi.

This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

Image: Pixabay