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Best Female-Directed Movies

Movies & TV

By Olivia S.

- Mar 23, 2023

In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of female directors and their contributions to the film industry. These talented women have brought unique perspectives and stories to the screen, often challenging traditional gender roles and stereotypes. Here are some of the best female movies that showcase the diverse range of talent and vision among female filmmakers.

See Also: Visually Stunning Movies & Their Use of Cinematography

Lady Bird (2017) - Directed by Greta Gerwig

Lady Bird is a coming-of-age story about a teenage girl growing up in Sacramento, California in the early 2000s. Directed by Greta Gerwig, the film is a poignant and heartfelt exploration of adolescence, family, and identity. Saoirse Ronan delivers a standout performance as the titular character, with Laurie Metcalf as her overbearing but loving mother.

The Hurt Locker (2008) - Directed by Kathryn Bigelow

Kathryn Bigelow made history when she became the first woman to win the Academy Award for Best Director for her work on The Hurt Locker. The film follows a bomb disposal team during the Iraq War, with Jeremy Renner giving a powerful performance as the team's leader. Bigelow's direction immerses the viewer in the intensity and danger of war, while also examining the psychological toll it takes on those involved.

The Piano (1993) - Directed by Jane Campion

Jane Campion's The Piano is a visually stunning and emotionally charged film set in 19th century New Zealand. Holly Hunter stars as a mute pianist who arrives in the country with her daughter and becomes entangled in a complicated love triangle with a local man (Harvey Keitel) and her husband (Sam Neill). The film is a haunting exploration of desire, power, and communication.

A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night (2014) - Directed by Ana Lily Amirpour

A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night is a genre-bending horror film directed by Ana Lily Amirpour. Set in a fictional Iranian ghost town, the film follows a vampire who preys on men who disrespect women. Shot entirely in black and white, the film is a stylish and subversive take on the vampire genre, with a feminist twist.

The Virgin Suicides (1999) - Directed by Sofia Coppola

Sofia Coppola's directorial debut, The Virgin Suicides, is a haunting and dreamlike adaptation of Jeffrey Eugenides' novel. It is set in suburban Michigan in the 1970s. The film follows the tragic lives of five sisters who are sheltered and controlled by their strict parents. Kirsten Dunst gives a standout performance as the troubled Lux, with a mesmerizing soundtrack by Air.

Selma (2014) - Directed by Ava DuVernay

Selma is a powerful historical drama by Ava DuVernay. It chronicles the events leading up to the Selma to Montgomery marches in 1965. David Oyelowo delivers a commanding performance as Martin Luther King Jr.. The supporting cast includes Carmen Ejogo, Tom Wilkinson, and Oprah Winfrey. DuVernay's direction captures the spirit and urgency of the civil rights movement. It also examines the personal toll it took on its leaders.

American Psycho (2000) - Directed by Mary Harron

Mary Harron's adaptation of Bret Easton Ellis' controversial novel is a darkly comedic and satirical critique of toxic masculinity. Christian Bale stars as Patrick Bateman, a wealthy and psychopathic investment banker who descends into madness and violence. Harron's direction deftly balances horror and humor, making for a biting commentary on the excesses of 1980s Wall Street culture.

These female-directed movies are just a small selection of the many incredible films made by women.