Best Documentaries about Women's Rights

Lists
Written By Habiba Abdou

Essential Films for Awareness and Empowerment

Documentaries have long been powerful tools for raising awareness, inspiring change, and providing education on women's rights. These films play a vital role in shedding light on the persistent struggle for gender equality and justice. Over the years, talented filmmakers have crafted numerous documentaries that delve into various aspects of women's rights, touching on topics such as gender-based violence, women's suffrage, pay equity, and reproductive rights.

These documentaries often share personal stories and highlight grassroots activism, providing audiences with unique perspectives and insights into the lives of women from diverse backgrounds. Their narratives shed light on critical issues faced by women around the world and illustrate the strength and resilience required to fight for equal rights and opportunities.

This article explores some of the best documentaries that not only captured the spirit and determination of women fighting for their rights, but also inspired viewers to take action and join the movement. From historical accounts to contemporary struggles, these films offer a compelling look into the long journey towards gender equality.

Period. End of Sentence. (2018)

'Period. End of Sentence.' is a powerful documentary that sheds light on the struggle faced by women in rural India when it comes to menstrual hygiene. Directed by Rayka Zehtabchi, this Oscar-winning documentary reveals the societal stigma and lack of education surrounding menstruation, causing limitations for women in their professional, social, and educational lives.

The documentary centers around the women of a small village called Kathikhera, in the Hapur district of India. It showcases their journey as they learn to manufacture and use sanitary pads, empowering them financially and enabling them to maintain their dignity during their periods.

One vital element of 'Period. End of Sentence.' is the initiative started by Arunachalam Muruganantham, the inventor of a low-cost sanitary pad-making machine. The documentary elaborates on the impact of this machine in the village where it was installed, generating employment and fostering entrepreneurial spirit among the women.

The film also underlines the importance of conversation and education in breaking the taboos around menstruation. Young girls and women in the documentary gradually gain the confidence to speak about their periods openly, highlighting the power of open dialogue in generating change.

In conclusion, 'Period. End of Sentence.' (2018) effectively brings attention to the critical issue of women's rights in terms of access to menstrual hygiene products and the importance of breaking menstrual taboos. This documentary should be on the list of anyone seeking to understand and learn about women's rights issues across the world.

'The Black Panthers: Vanguard of the Revolution' (2015)

The Black Panthers: Vanguard of the Revolution is a compelling documentary that sheds light on the history and impact of the Black Panther Party on women's rights. Directed by Stanley Nelson, the film provides a comprehensive view of the Party's revolutionary ideas that transcended racial boundaries and influenced the women's rights movement.

The documentary primarily focuses on the formation, growth, and decline of the Party, portraying the members' dedication to improving the lives of marginalized communities. The Black Panther Party's fight for women's rights paralleled their broader struggle for racial justice and civil rights. Although the Party was predominantly associated with African American men, it attracted a multitude of women who contributed significantly to the Party's mission.

The inclusion of women in the Black Panther Party challenged traditional gender roles and served as an inspiration for feminists worldwide. Women occupied crucial positions in the Party, performing various roles such as designers, writers, speakers, organizers, and even combatants in some instances. Angela Davis, Elaine Brown, and Kathleen Cleaver are prominent figures in the documentary, representing the indomitable spirit of Black Panther women who held leadership roles within the organization.

Furthermore, the documentary delves into the Party's break with conventional gender norms. Women in the Black Panther Party shared equal responsibilities with their male counterparts, demonstrating the organization's commitment to gender equality. In addition, the Party was instrumental in raising awareness of issues such as reproductive rights, equal pay, and sexual harassment. These topics were not only addressed within the Party’s own programs but were also promoted to the wider public through the Panthers’ influential platform.

In conclusion, 'The Black Panthers: Vanguard of the Revolution' is an essential documentary that offers a unique perspective on the often overlooked contributions of women in the Black Panther Party. Though primarily focused on racial justice and civil rights, the film reveals the Black Panthers' efforts to promote gender equality, challenging traditional norms and inspiring generations of feminists.

Mercury 13 (2018)

'Mercury 13' is a compelling 2018 documentary that sheds light on the remarkable stories of thirteen trailblazing American women who underwent secret testing to become astronauts in the early 1960s. They were part of a privately-funded program, separate from NASA's official astronaut selection process, which sought to explore the feasibility of women's participation in space travel.

The documentary highlights the rigorous physical and mental tests these accomplished women underwent, demonstrating their strengths, resilience, and perseverance. They proved to be just as capable as their male counterparts, often exceeding their scores. However, they faced many obstacles in their quest for equality, ultimately being denied the opportunity to officially become astronauts at that time in history.

Through interviews and archival footage, 'Mercury 13' illustrates the challenges these women faced, delving deep into the societal norms and biases of that era. Not only did they have to fight against gender stereotypes, but they also dealt with the immense pressure of dealing with the limelight while competing in a male-dominated realm.

By showcasing their incredible stories, 'Mercury 13' effectively underlines the importance of equal opportunities for women in all spheres of life, including highly technical professions such as astronautics. The documentary inspires and educates viewers on the valiant women who paved the way for future generations, redefining what it means to be a woman in the world of space exploration.

He Named Me Malala

He Named Me Malala is a compelling documentary about the life and incredible achievements of Malala Yousafzai. Directed by Davis Guggenheim, this documentary provides an insightful look into Malala's fight for education and women's rights in Pakistan.

The documentary is composed of intimate interviews with Malala and her family, painting a vivid picture of their resilience in the face of threats and violence. As a young activist, Malala gained global recognition when she survived an assassination attempt by the Taliban in 2012. The film delves into her strength, courage, and unwavering commitment to education despite the challenges she faced.

In addition to the interviews, He Named Me Malala incorporates animations to help illustrate Malala's life and stories, adding a visually engaging element for viewers. The film offers a glimpse into her personal life, shedding light on her relationships with her family, as well as her aspirations for the future.

The documentary effectively conveys the importance of education and the challenges faced by girls worldwide, making it a valuable resource for those wishing to better understand the significance of women's rights and the power of one young woman's determination to make a difference.

9to5: The Story of a Movement (2020)

"9to5: The Story of a Movement" is a documentary that highlights the struggle of women in the workforce in the United States since the 1970s. Directed by Julia Reichert and Steven Bognar, the film examines the inception and growth of the "9to5" movement, which aimed to advocate for women's rights in the workplace.

The documentary showcases the challenges and victories encountered by a group of women who sought to improve working conditions, equal pay, and fair treatment. It features the inspiring stories of pioneering women such as Karen Nussbaum, Ellen Cassedy, and Mary Jung, who played crucial roles in the 9to5 group. Their efforts helped bring about significant change in the workplace.

The film demonstrates how the 9to5 movement influenced society and politics, particularly in the area of equal rights and workplace policies. The documentary also delves into the broader impact of the 9to5 group, including pushing for the passage of legislation such as the Family and Medical Leave Act and the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act.

By sharing the stories of brave women who fought for equality and respect in the workplace, "9to5: The Story of a Movement" serves as an insightful and empowering examination of the ongoing fight for women's rights. The documentary is an essential watch for anyone interested in understanding the roots of gender inequality within the workforce and the progress that has been made up to this point.

Reversing Roe (2018)

"Reversing Roe" is a compelling documentary released in 2018, which offers an in-depth look at the history of the women's rights movement, particularly focusing on the abortion debate in the United States. The film's directors, Ricki Stern and Annie Sundberg, take a neutral approach to this highly controversial subject, presenting an unbiased view of the topic, while also shedding light on the political, legal, and historical aspects of the struggle for women's reproductive rights.

The documentary skillfully weaves together a series of interviews with key players from both sides of the issue. These include women who have experienced an abortion, activists, legal experts, and politicians. "Reversing Roe" is unique as it highlights the perspectives of both pro-choice and pro-life advocates, allowing for an all-encompassing understanding of the topic that is accessible to viewers, regardless of their own personal stance on the matter.

One of the standout aspects of "Reversing Roe" is its exploration of the circumstances that led to the landmark U.S. Supreme Court decision in the 1973 case of Roe v. Wade, which effectively legalized abortion across the entire nation. The documentary intricately dissects the politics that surrounded the decision and uncovers the key factors that influenced the Court's ruling.

In addition to examining the past, "Reversing Roe" also delves into the current climate surrounding women's reproductive rights. The documentary thoughtfully addresses the ongoing debate regarding abortion restrictions, as well as the controversy that surrounds political efforts to repeal or limit the decisions made in Roe v. Wade. The film provides valuable context for understanding the broader conversation about women's rights in America and the persistent efforts to challenge or protect these rights.

Overall, "Reversing Roe" serves as an insightful and informative resource for anyone interested in the women's rights movement, particularly as it relates to the ongoing battle over reproductive rights. With its balanced approach and comprehensive coverage, the documentary leaves the viewers with a true understanding of the complex history, relevant facts, and the various perspectives of the abortion debate in the United States.

'This Changes Everything' (2018)

'This Changes Everything' is a powerful documentary released in 2018, directed by Tom Donahue. The film delves into the systemic gender inequality faced by women in Hollywood, both on and off-screen. By featuring interviews with prominent actors, directors, producers, and writers, the documentary sheds light on the persistent gender imbalance in the film industry and the barriers faced by women.

Representation Matters: The documentary highlights the glaring underrepresentation of women in the industry, citing that only 5% of 1,100 popular films were directed by women from 2007 to 2017. Furthermore, the film emphasizes how less than 30% of speaking characters in films are female, which leaves a substantial impact on how women and girls perceive themselves and their roles in society.

Breaking Stereotypes: 'This Changes Everything' explores the stereotypical portrayal of women in media, resulting in harmful consequences for both audiences and the industry. Interviews with actresses like Geena Davis and Meryl Streep underscore the importance of diverse representation, and disrupting the status quo.

Call to Action: Finally, the documentary demonstrates meaningful actions being taken by organizations and individuals within the industry. For example, the establishment of the Geena Davis Institute on Gender in Media has shifted the conversation and highlighted the need for data-driven research on gender disparities in entertainment.

In summary, 'This Changes Everything' is a crucial exploration of gender inequality within Hollywood, which serves as a sobering reminder of the work left to be done. Through interviews and poignant analysis, the film stands as a testament to the importance of meaningful representation and advocacy for women's rights in the film industry.

Feminists: What Were They Thinking?

"Feminists: What Were They Thinking?" is a thought-provoking documentary that delves into the feminist movement and its role in shaping our society. Directed by Johanna Demetrakas and released in 2018, the film predominantly features interviews with women from diverse backgrounds who participated in the second wave of feminism during the 1970s.

The documentary begins by showcasing the photographs taken by Cynthia MacAdams. These striking images, captured during the rise of the feminist movement, serve as the starting point for discussions in the film. Prominent figures such as Jane Fonda, Lily Tomlin, and Gloria Steinem share their insight into the movement, while offering a glimpse into their personal experiences.

"Feminists: What Were They Thinking?" seeks to bridge the gap between the feminist movements of the past and present by highlighting the similarities and differences between them. The film covers a range of topics, from reproductive rights, and body image to intersectionality, and gender equality. The narratives unfold in an engaging manner that helps viewers gain a deeper understanding of women's ongoing fight for equality and justice.

By revisiting the women featured in MacAdams' photographs and hearing their powerful stories, the documentary successfully reminds us of the progress that has been made in gender equality since the 1970s. Despite the many victories, the film also acknowledges the continuing challenges and the importance of generations coming together to keep pushing for a more equal and just society. Ironing out every point of view, the documentary attempts to provide a well-rounded perspective on feminism.

'She's Beautiful When She's Angry' (2014)

'She's Beautiful When She's Angry' is a captivating and educational documentary that revolves around the lives of women who pioneered the modern women's rights movement from 1966 to 1971. Directed by Mary Dore, the film brings to life the stories of these brave women and highlights the importance of their advocacy for equal rights.

This documentary features interviews with more than 30 feminists who played a significant role in the early stages of women's rights activism. Some notable figures include Dorothy Pitman Hughes, Rita Mae Brown, and Susan Brownmiller. These women share their experiences, insights, and the challenges they faced during their activism. The film aims to inspire and educate a new generation of feminists to continue fighting for women's rights.

In addition to the interviews, the film also utilizes archival footage, photographs, and other historical sources to portray the diverse and vibrant culture of the women's rights movement. The documentary covers key events and group formations such as:

  • Birth of National Organization for Women (NOW)

  • Founding of Women's International Terrorist Conspiracy from Hell (WITCH)

  • Establishment of Radicalesbians

Moreover, 'She's Beautiful When She's Angry' discusses various topics such as women's rights to their bodies, reproductive rights, and workplace equality. Overall, the documentary provides a comprehensive look at the early years of women's rights activism and serves as a valuable resource for those interested in learning about the history of women's rights.

Woman (2019)

Woman' (2019) is a thought-provoking documentary that explores the lives of women from different backgrounds, cultures, and socio-economic statuses around the world. Directed by Yann Arthus-Bertrand and Anastasia Mikova, this powerful film delves into various aspects of women's rights, inequalities, and empowerment.

The documentary features interviews with over 2,000 women in 50 countries, providing a diverse and comprehensive perspective on women's rights issues. Aside from exploring pressing concerns such as gender-based violence, education, and childcare, the film also sheds light on issues often overlooked, such as menstrual health and reproductive rights.

One of the strengths of 'Woman' is its ability to give a voice to women who are typically marginalized or silenced in their own communities. By featuring compelling stories and first-hand accounts, the documentary humanizes the issues and encourages empathy among viewers.

Through its visually stunning cinematography, 'Woman' captivates the audience while simultaneously conveying the harsh realities faced by many women across the globe. The film does not shy away from showing the injustices and difficulties faced by its subjects, yet it also celebrates their resilience and determination.

In summary, 'Woman' (2019) offers a powerful and insightful look into the complexities of women's rights and experiences around the world. Its compelling storytelling, combined with its artistic presentation, make it an essential documentary for anyone interested in understanding and advocating for women's rights.

Miss Representation (2011)

Miss Representation is a compelling documentary that explores the underrepresentation and misrepresentation of women in the media. Directed by Jennifer Siebel Newsom, the film examines how mainstream media perpetuates gender stereotypes, contributing to the marginalization of women in various aspects of society.

The documentary features interviews with prominent figures in politics, journalism, and entertainment, such as Condoleezza Rice, Gloria Steinem, and Geena Davis. These women share their experiences of sexism and media bias and discuss how these issues impact the progress of women's rights.

One key aspect that Miss Representation highlights is the harmful portrayal of women in advertising. The film presents numerous examples of how women are often objectified, sexualized, and demeaned in ads, creating a culture that normalizes the mistreatment of women. This distorted representation perpetuates a negative image of women, causing young girls to internalize these harmful messages and influencing society's expectations of women.

Moreover, the documentary tackles the issue of female representation in positions of power and decision-making. It reveals the alarming statistics on the limited number of women in leadership roles in politics, journalism, and entertainment industries. The film emphasizes the importance of increasing female representation to combat gender stereotypes and promote equal opportunities.

In conclusion, Miss Representation sheds light on the pressing issue of women's rights through the lens of media representation. By exposing the harmful effects of gender stereotypes and advocating for greater equality, the documentary serves as an essential call to action for change.

LFG (2021)

LFG is a powerful and insightful documentary released in 2021, centered around the courageous fight of the US Women's National Soccer Team for equal pay and rights. This documentary delves into the players' lives, their legal battles, and their unrelenting quest for justice, all while preparing to compete on the world stage.

The film offers an intimate look at the team's key members, such as Megan Rapinoe, Alex Morgan, and Becky Sauerbrunn, among others. LFG does a remarkable job of interweaving personal narratives, behind-the-scenes footage, and in-depth interviews, providing a comprehensive and humanizing view of the team's fight for equity.

  • Key events covered in the documentary include:

    • The filing of a gender discrimination lawsuit in March 2019.

    • The 2019 FIFA Women's World Cup championship, which brought further attention to their cause.

    • The aftermath of the case's dismissal and the team's decision to appeal the ruling.

The documentary also offers a broader perspective on the struggle for women's rights in sports and beyond. It delves into the history of Title IX, a federal law passed in 1972, aimed at preventing gender-based discrimination in educational programs and activities. By shedding light on this important legislation and the ongoing fight for equal opportunities, LFG situates the team's battle within a larger context, giving viewers a better understanding of the systemic challenges that women face.

In summary, LFG is an inspiring and eye-opening documentary that explores the US Women's National Soccer Team's battle for equal pay and rights. It offers both a personal narrative of the players involved and a broader perspective on the fight for gender equity. This film is a must-watch for anyone interested in women's rights, sports, or social justice.

Hysterical (2021)

Hysterical (2021) is an inspiring documentary that shines a light on the world of women in stand-up comedy. Directed by Andrea Nevins, the film features a series of interviews with trailblazing female comedians who have faced various career challenges and broken barriers within the male-dominated comedy industry.

The documentary highlights the perseverance and resilience of women in comedy, from pioneers like Moms Mabley and Phyllis Diller to current stars like Margaret Cho, Tiffany Haddish, and Iliza Shlesinger. These comedians share their personal experiences, struggles, and moments of triumphs while making a name for themselves in the entertainment world.

In addition to showcasing the careers and personal stories of these remarkable women, Hysterical delves deeper into the societal factors that have made it difficult for women to succeed in the world of stand-up comedy. Issues such as gender biases, sexism, and expectations of what women can and cannot joke about are all addressed throughout the documentary.

Hysterical not only celebrates the strides women have made within the comedy landscape but also serves as a reminder of the obstacles they continue to face. By providing a platform for these strong, witty, and talented women to share their stories, the documentary aims to challenge stereotypes and promote greater representation within the industry.

The Janes (2022)

The Janes (2022) is an insightful documentary that delves into the history and impact of the underground feminist abortion service in the late 1960s and early 1970s, known as the Jane Collective. The film, directed by Phyllis Nagy, provides a detailed account of the women who risked their lives to help others gain access to safe abortion services during a time when the procedure was illegal in the United States.

The documentary features interviews with several women who were part of the Jane Collective. These brave individuals share their experiences, highlighting the dangers they faced and the difficult decisions they had to make in order to protect the rights of countless women. Additionally, The Janes (2022) explores the legal and political battles that would eventually lead to the landmark Supreme Court decision, Roe v. Wade.

Visually, the film combines archival footage with present-day interviews, creating a seamless narrative that allows viewers to understand the context and importance of the Jane Collective's work. The documentary also presents a nuanced view of the individuals involved, offering a glimpse into their lives beyond their roles as activists.

In summary, The Janes (2022) is an essential documentary, shedding light on a pivotal moment in the women's rights movement. By focusing on the courage and determination of the Jane Collective, the film affirms the importance of fighting for and protecting reproductive rights.

Conclusion

In the realm of documentaries, several powerful films have been dedicated to the subject of women's rights. These documentaries not only shed light on the issues faced by women worldwide but also inspire and educate the viewers on the importance of gender equality.

In conclusion, these documentaries offer invaluable insights into the ongoing struggle for women's rights while showcasing the strength and courage of the women involved. Engaging and eye-opening, these films are essential viewing for anyone interested in understanding and advancing gender equality.

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Habiba Abdou
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