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Watch these 10 Netflix movies that demonstrate the spirit, and energy of International Women’s Day.
International Women’s Day is a day to celebrate the achievements of women around the world. To commemorate this special day, we have compiled a list of 10 movies on Netflix that demonstrate the spirit and energy of International Women’s Day.
These movies will educate and inspire you with stories about female empowerment, courage, and strength. From biographical dramas to comedies, these films will give you an insight into the struggles and successes of women in different parts of the world.
So, grab your popcorn and get ready to watch some amazing stories that will make you laugh, cry, and feel empowered!
Top 10 Netflix Movies that Show the Spirit of the International Women’s Day
1. Moxie (2021)
The first Netflix movie to watch on International Women’s Day is Moxie.
The movie is about a shy high school student who creates an anonymous zine to call out the school’s toxic masculinity and inspire her female classmates to fight against sexism and harassment.
Moxie is a must-watch movie that will leave you feeling inspired and empowered. This 2021 Netflix original film is directed by Amy Poehler and stars Hadley Robinson, Lauren Tsai, and Alycia Pascual-Pena.
The movie follows the story of a shy and introverted high school student, Vivian (Hadley Robinson), who is frustrated by the sexism and harassment that she and her female classmates experience in their school. She takes inspiration from her mother’s rebellious past and decides to create an anonymous zine called Moxie, which calls out the toxic masculinity in her school and inspires her female classmates to fight for their rights.
The film is a perfect blend of humor and social commentary. It addresses important issues such as gender inequality, consent, and rape culture in a relatable and accessible manner. The characters are well-developed and complex, and the performances are outstanding, particularly that of Hadley Robinson, who beautifully portrays Vivian’s transformation from a timid girl to a confident young woman.
The movie also has a great soundtrack, featuring songs from feminist icons such as Bikini Kill, L7, and Sleater-Kinney, which perfectly captures the rebellious and empowering spirit of the film.
Overall, Moxie is a refreshing and inspiring movie that will leave you feeling motivated to fight against the patriarchy and make your voice heard. It is a must-watch for everyone, especially young women who are looking for a role model to look up to.
2. The Forty-Year-Old Version (2020)
Next, you can stream The Forty-Year-Old Version movie on Netflix to get some inspiration for this special day.
The movie follows a struggling New York City playwright who reinvents herself as a rapper at the age of 40, as she navigates her creative and personal life.
The Forty-Year-Old Version is a witty and thought-provoking film that explores the struggles of a woman trying to find her voice and place in the world. Written, directed, and starring Radha Blank, this 2020 Netflix original film is a semi-autobiographical story that showcases Blank’s talents as a writer, performer, and filmmaker.
The movie follows Radha, a struggling New York City playwright who, at 40, is feeling stuck and disillusioned with her career and personal life. Frustrated by the lack of recognition and support from the theater industry, she decides to reinvent herself as a rapper named RadhaMUSprime, and begins a journey of self-discovery that challenges her creative and personal boundaries.
The movie shows the creative process, the pressures of age and success, and the search for authenticity and a place to belong in a real and honest way. It tackles important themes such as gentrification, racism, and classism, with sharp, witty humor that keeps the audience engaged and entertained.
Radha Blank delivers a captivating performance as both the protagonist and the writer-director of the film. Her wit and charisma shine through in every scene, and her portrayal of the struggles of a Black woman artist is both relatable and insightful.
The movie also features an exceptional supporting cast, including Peter Kim, Oswin Benjamin, and Imani Lewis, who bring depth and nuance to their respective roles.
Overall, The Forty-Year-Old Version is a captivating and inspiring movie that showcases the talents of Radha Blank as a writer, performer, and filmmaker. It is a must-watch for anyone who is looking for a fresh and authentic voice in cinema, and for anyone who has ever felt lost or stuck in their creative pursuits.
Watch The Forty-Year-Old Version on Netflix
3. The Queen’s Gambit (2020)
Don’t forget to stream The Queen’s Gambit on Netflix, which will make you feel empowered as a woman.
The limited series is about a young orphaned girl who becomes a chess prodigy and rises to the top of the chess world in the 1960s, while also dealing with addiction and personal demons.
The Queen’s Gambit is a captivating and brilliantly executed miniseries that takes viewers on a journey through the life of a young and talented chess prodigy named Beth Harmon. This 2020 Netflix original series is based on the novel of the same name by Walter Tevis and stars Anya Taylor-Joy in the lead role.
The series begins in the 1950s, when we meet Beth, a young girl who has just lost her mother in a car accident and is sent to an orphanage. There, she discovers her love for chess and her natural talent for the game. Beth faces many problems as she grows up, such as addiction, loss, and competition, but her love of chess stays the same and gives her a sense of purpose and belonging.
The show is a masterclass in storytelling, with exceptional writing, directing, and acting that keep the audience engaged and invested in Beth’s journey. The cinematography and set design are also outstanding, capturing the era and mood of each scene perfectly.
Anya Taylor-Joy delivers a remarkable performance as Beth, portraying her character’s brilliance, vulnerability, and flaws with depth and nuance. The supporting cast is also exceptional, with standout performances from Bill Camp, Marielle Heller, and Thomas Brodie-Sangster.
Beyond its captivating storyline and impressive performances, The Queen’s Gambit is also a powerful commentary on gender, addiction, and the nature of genius. It challenges stereotypes and celebrates the power of female intellect and determination.
Overall, The Queen’s Gambit is a masterpiece of storytelling that combines drama, suspense, and inspiration in a way that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. It is a must-watch for anyone who loves great storytelling, exceptional acting, or the game of chess.
Watch The Queen’s Gambit on Netflix
4. Unorthodox (2020)
Then, we have the Unorthodox series on Netflix to commemorate this special occasion.
The limited series is based on a true story of a young woman who leaves her ultra-Orthodox Jewish community in New York City to start a new life in Berlin.
Unorthodox is a powerful and moving miniseries that explores the struggles of a young woman who leaves her ultra-Orthodox community in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, to start a new life in Berlin. This 2020 Netflix original series is based on a memoir by Deborah Feldman and stars Shira Haas in the lead role.
The series follows Esty Shapiro, a 19-year-old woman who has grown up in a strict Hasidic community where conformity and tradition are valued above all else. After an arranged marriage that is fraught with tension and disappointment, Esty decides to flee her community and pursue a new life in Berlin.
The show is a poignant and honest exploration of the challenges faced by individuals who leave insular communities and seek to find their own identity and place in the world. It deals with important themes such as religion, culture, gender, and the power of choice.
Shira Haas delivers an outstanding performance as Esty, bringing depth, vulnerability, and strength to her character’s journey. The supporting cast is also exceptional, particularly Amit Rahav as Esty’s estranged husband and Jeff Wilbusch as her cousin who is sent to bring her back to the community.
The series is beautifully shot, with stunning locations in both Brooklyn and Berlin. The score is also exceptional, capturing the emotional journey of the characters with precision and sensitivity.
Overall, Unorthodox is a strong and thought-provoking show that explores important themes in an honest and sensitive way. It’s a must-see for anyone who wants to learn more about the complexities of identity, tradition, and choice, as well as for anyone who loves great acting and a good story.
5. Dumplin’ (2018)
Feeling less confident because of your appearance? Stream Dumplin’ on Netflix to boost your courage, self-acceptance, and positivity.
The movie is about a plus-size teenage girl who enters a beauty pageant to challenge beauty standards and inspire self-confidence in herself and other girls.
Dumplin’ is a heartwarming and inspiring film that celebrates body positivity and self-acceptance. This 2018 Netflix original movie is based on the novel of the same name by Julie Murphy and stars Danielle Macdonald and Jennifer Aniston in the lead roles.
The movie follows Willowdean, a plus-size teenager who is the daughter of a former beauty queen and struggles with her own self-image. When her mother (Aniston) begins to organize a beauty pageant, Willowdean decides to enter as a form of protest against the conventional standards of beauty.
The film is a celebration of diversity, individuality, and self-expression, and tackles important themes such as body shaming, bullying, and friendship. It does so with humor, heart, and a deep sense of empathy for its characters.
Danielle Macdonald delivers a captivating performance as Willowdean, portraying her character’s wit, vulnerability, and strength with authenticity and charm. Jennifer Aniston is also excellent as her mother, delivering a nuanced and layered performance that reveals the struggles and insecurities of a former beauty queen who is trying to reconnect with her daughter.
The movie is also notable for its outstanding soundtrack, featuring original songs from Dolly Parton, who also appears in the film.
Overall, Dumplin’ is a feel-good movie that celebrates self-love and acceptance. It is a must-watch for anyone who has ever struggled with body image or felt like they didn’t fit in with conventional standards of beauty. It is a reminder that beauty comes in all shapes and sizes and that we should celebrate our differences rather than conform to society’s expectations.
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6. Nappily Ever After (2018)
Similar to Dumplin’, Nappily Ever After is another recommended Netflix movie that has the spirit of International Women’s Day.
The movie is about a successful advertising executive who decides to embrace her natural hair and redefine her beauty standards after a breakup.
Nappily Ever After is a charming and empowering film that explores the complexities of self-love and self-acceptance. This 2018 Netflix original movie is based on the novel of the same name by Trisha R. Thomas and stars Sanaa Lathan in the lead role.
The movie follows Violet Jones, a successful advertising executive who seems to have it all: a great job, a handsome boyfriend, and perfectly straightened hair. However, when a series of events shatter her perfect facade, Violet embarks on a journey of self-discovery that leads her to embrace her natural hair and redefine her sense of self.
The movie is a tribute to the beauty and identity of black women, and it deals with important topics like self-worth, identity, and cultural expectations. It does so with humor, heart, and a deep sense of empathy for its characters.
Sanaa Lathan delivers a captivating performance as Violet, portraying her character’s vulnerabilities, insecurities, and growth with authenticity and grace. The supporting cast is also excellent, particularly Lynn Whitfield as Violet’s mother, who embodies the pressures and expectations of a generation of black women who have been taught to conform to Eurocentric beauty standards.
The movie is also notable for its outstanding soundtrack, which features original songs by R&B singer-songwriter Marsha Ambrosius.
Overall, Nappily Ever After is a feel-good movie that celebrates self-love and authenticity. It is a must-watch for anyone who has ever struggled with identity, self-worth, or cultural expectations, and for anyone who appreciates outstanding acting and storytelling. It is a reminder that beauty comes in all forms, and that we should celebrate and embrace our true selves.
Watch Nappily Ever After on Netflix
7. Roxanne Roxanne (2017)
Next, Roxanne Roxanne should be on your Netflix watch list. The movie is based on the life of Roxanne Shante, a teenage rap prodigy who rose to fame in the 1980s and became one of the first female MCs in hip-hop.
Roxanne Roxanne is a powerful and gripping biopic that tells the story of Roxanne Shanté, one of the pioneering female rappers of the 1980s. This 2017 film is directed by Michael Larnell and stars Chanté Adams in the lead role, alongside Mahershala Ali and Nia Long.
The movie is set in Queensbridge, New York, during the early 1980s, and follows Roxanne Shanté (Adams) as she rises to fame as a teenage rapper in a male-dominated industry. The film explores the challenges she faced growing up in poverty, her struggles to find her own voice in a world that constantly tried to silence her, and her resilience in the face of adversity.
The movie is a tribute to the strength and creativity of black women. It also deals with important issues like poverty, domestic violence, and racism. It does so with authenticity, honesty, and a deep respect for its characters.
Chanté Adams delivers a stunning performance as Roxanne Shanté, capturing her character’s toughness, vulnerability, and raw talent with incredible skill and nuance. Mahershala Ali is also excellent as her abusive boyfriend and manager, displaying the complexity and depth of a man who is both charming and dangerous.
The film’s soundtrack is a standout feature, featuring classic hip-hop tracks from the 1980s, as well as original songs written and performed by Roxanne Shanté herself.
Overall, Roxanne Roxanne is a powerful and inspiring film that shines a light on the struggles and triumphs of a true hip-hop pioneer. It is a must-watch for anyone interested in the history of hip-hop, and for anyone who appreciates outstanding acting and storytelling. It is a reminder that black women’s voices matter and that they have contributed greatly to the development of a genre that has had a significant impact on popular culture.
Watch Roxanne Roxanne on Netflix
8. What Happened, Miss Simone? (2015)
Another inspiring tale of women that you should watch on Netflix is What Happened, Miss Simone?
The documentary is about the life and career of the legendary singer and activist Nina Simone, who fought against racism and sexism in the music industry.
What Happened, Miss Simone? is a stunning and powerful documentary that explores the life and legacy of Nina Simone, one of the most influential and enigmatic figures in music history. This 2015 film, directed by Liz Garbus, shows never-before-seen footage and interviews with Simone’s closest friends and family. It gives a rare look into the life of a true musical genius.
The movie chronicles Simone’s journey from her early years as a child prodigy in North Carolina to her rise as a trailblazing musician and civil rights activist in the 1960s. It delves deep into her personal struggles, including her battles with mental illness, abusive relationships, and racism.
The film is a tribute to Simone’s unique talent and uncompromising spirit, and a testament to her enduring influence on generations of musicians and activists. It also highlights the profound impact she had on the civil rights movement, using her music and her voice to speak out against injustice and inequality.
What Happened, Miss Simone? is a masterclass in documentary filmmaking, using archival footage, interviews, and music to paint a vivid and emotional portrait of a complex and fascinating figure.
The film is a must-watch for anyone interested in music, history, and social justice, and for anyone who wants to gain a deeper understanding of the life and legacy of one of the most important artists of the 20th century.
Overall, What Happened, Miss Simone? is a moving and enlightening film that captures the spirit and genius of a true icon. It is a reminder of the power of music and the importance of using our voices to fight for what is right.
Watch What Happened, Miss Simone? on Netflix
9. She’s Beautiful When She’s Angry (2014)
Are you interested in the feminist issue? She’s Beautiful When She’s Angry is one of the top-notch documentaries you should watch.
The documentary is about the second wave of feminism in the 1960s and 1970s, and the women who fought for reproductive rights, equal pay, and other social and political issues.
She’s Beautiful When She’s Angry is a captivating and inspiring documentary that tells the story of the women’s liberation movement of the 1960s and 70s in the United States. Directed by Mary Dore, this 2014 film features interviews with some of the movement’s most prominent figures, as well as archival footage and photos that bring the era to life.
The movie begins by exploring the cultural and political landscape of the time, when women were expected to conform to traditional roles as wives and mothers, and faced discrimination in every aspect of their lives. It then shows how a group of women, inspired by the civil rights movement, began to organize and fight for their own rights and freedoms.
The film highlights the diversity of the movement, featuring interviews with women of different races, classes, and sexual orientations. It also sheds light on the challenges they faced, including opposition from both men and women, and the struggle to balance personal relationships with political activism.
She’s Beautiful When She’s Angry is a celebration of the power of collective action and the resilience of the human spirit. It is a reminder that the fight for women’s rights is far from over, and that we must continue to stand up against oppression and inequality.
Overall, She’s Beautiful When She’s Angry is a must-watch for anyone interested in social justice, feminism, and history. It is a strong and important movie that will teach and inspire people of all ages and backgrounds.
Though it’s not available on Netflix, you can still watch She’s Beautiful When She’s Angry on Apple TV.
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10. The Iron Lady (2011)
Last but not least, it’s incomplete if we don’t recommend you watch The Iron Lady on Netflix as a manifesto for International Women’s Day.
The movie is a biopic of Margaret Thatcher, the first female prime minister of the United Kingdom, and her political and personal life.
The Iron Lady is a captivating and poignant biopic that chronicles the life of Margaret Thatcher, the first female Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. Directed by Phyllida Lloyd, this 2011 film stars Meryl Streep in a mesmerizing performance that captures the essence of one of the most powerful and controversial figures in modern British history.
The movie follows Thatcher’s rise to power, from her early years as a young woman studying chemistry at Oxford to her ascent to the highest political office in the land. It delves into her political philosophy and her relationship with her husband Denis, as well as her battles with the trade unions, the IRA, and the Falklands War.
The film is a nuanced and humanizing portrayal of a complex and often polarizing figure, showing the personal sacrifices and struggles that accompanied Thatcher’s relentless ambition and drive. It also sheds light on the gender barriers she faced as a woman in a male-dominated world, and the criticisms she faced from feminists and others who opposed her policies.
The Iron Lady is a masterclass in acting and filmmaking, with Streep’s portrayal of Thatcher earning her numerous accolades, including an Academy Award for Best Actress. The film is a must-watch for anyone interested in politics, history, and the role of women in leadership.
Overall, The Iron Lady is a moving and insightful film that offers a rare glimpse into the life of one of the most iconic and influential leaders of the 20th century. It is a tribute to Thatcher’s enduring legacy, as well as a reminder of the challenges and opportunities that come with leadership and public service.
Watch The Iron Lady on Netflix
Do you know of any other movies on Netflix that capture the spirit and energy of International Women’s Day that we should watch?
Write them in the comments box below. Happy watching!
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