International Women’s Day is the perfect time to celebrate powerful storytelling by and about women. From gripping horror to inspiring musicals, these films showcase strong female leads and visionary women directors. Whether you’re in the mood for something thrilling, heartfelt, or thought-provoking, these picks have you covered.
1. The Substance (2024)
🎬 Directed by Coralie Fargeat🩸 A mind-bending feminist horror that explores society’s obsession with youth and female identity. Starring Demi Moore, this film Where to Watch: Prime Video
2. Wicked (2024)
🎬 Directed by Jon M. Chu✨ Cynthia Erivo & Ariana Grande shine in this musical spectacle. Now the highest-grossing Broadway adaptation of all time! A visually stunning reimagining of the beloved stage production.
Where to Watch: PWicked will hit Peacock in mid-March, but fans who would rather not wait can pick up the Blu-ray now or buy it on demand.
3. A Quiet Place: Day One (2024)
🎬 Directed by Michael Sarnoski🐾 A tense, female-led thriller starring Lupita Nyong’o. This prequel expands on the eerie world of A Quiet Place while giving a fresh perspective through a strong, compelling protagonist.
Where to Watch: Prime Video, MGM, Paramount+
4. My Old Ass (2024)
🎬 Directed by Megan Park🌀 A coming-of-age drama following an 18-year-old girl who starts hallucinating her older self. This heartfelt film, starring Maisy Stella and Aubrey Plaza, explores identity, choices, and self-discovery.
Where to Watch: Prime Video
5. Suncoast (2024)
🎬 Directed by Laura Chinn☀️ A touching, semi-autobiographical drama about a teenager navigating family, grief, and activism. Featuring standout performances from Laura Linney, Nico Parker, and Woody Harrelson.
Where to Watch: Hulu
6. Woman of the Hour (2023)
🎬 Directed by Anna Kendrick📺 A chilling thriller based on the true story of serial killer Rodney Alcala, who once appeared on a dating show. Anna Kendrick directs and stars in this gripping, unsettling tale.
Where to Watch: Netflix
Honorable Mentions: TV Shows Led & Created by Women
Beyond films, these women-driven TV series deserve recognition for their impact and success:
True Detective: Night Country (2024)
🎬 Created & directed by Issa López🔦 This acclaimed season, starring Jodie Foster and Kali Reis, became the most-watched installment of True Detective and received 19 Emmy nominations. With eerie storytelling and stellar performances, it’s a must-watch.
Where to Watch: MAX
The Morning Show (2019–present)
🎬 Showrunner: Kerry Ehrin☕ Reese Witherspoon & Jennifer Aniston star in this gripping drama about morning television, power struggles, and the challenges women face in the media industry.
Where to Watch: AppleTV+
Celebrate Women in Film & TV
From blockbuster hits to intimate indie gems, these films and shows highlight the talent and storytelling power of women in entertainment. This International Women’s Day, take the time to watch, support, and celebrate these incredible projects!
What’s your favorite female-led film or series? Let me know in the comments!
Happy TV Time!
Diana,
Screens in Focus
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