In the long history of humans, women's stories have often been overlooked. Yet as modern society has allowed women to speak for themselves, more and more women are standing up to choose how to live their lives. As March 8 marks another International Women's Day, here are nine powerful films that just might inspire you to re-imagine what it means to be a woman.
Leap (2020)
This 2020 film about the Chinese national women's volleyball team presents their history from 1981, when they won the Women's World Cup, to the year 2016. Actress Gong Li stars as the legendary volleyball player Lang Ping.
Hi, Mom (2021)
This heartwarming comedy, about a woman who accidently meets her mother during time travel, became a hit with audiences this year, leading the mainland box office right after Chinese New Year.
The Story of Qiu Ju (1992)
Directed by Zhang Yimou, the 1992 film depicts a peasant woman Qiu Ju who lives in a rural area of China and fights for justice. It is a screen adaptation of writer Chen Yuanbin's novel The Wan Family's Lawsuit.
Twenty-two (2017)
The documentary film depicts the lives of the nation's surviving World War II comfort women. In 2017, the film had the honor of becoming the first Chinese documentary to earn 100 million yuan ($15.4 million) at the box office.
Pretty Big Feet (2002)
Zhang Meili, a peasant woman in Northwest China who lost her husband and child, found a more meaningful use for her motherhood in helping other children in her village.
The Joy Luck Club (1993)
Adapted from Amy Tan's acclaimed novel The Joy Luck Club, the film beautifully tells the stories of four Chinese women and their daughters who were all born in the US. Their conflicts also reflect the collision between traditional Chinese culture and American culture.
Coco Avant Chanel (2009)
The life of Coco Chanel serves as a guide to all women wishing to establish their own careers. Audrey Tautou, famous for her iconic performance in Amelie, stars as the illustrious fashion designer.
Temple Grandin (2008)
The uplifting story of this trailblazing woman with autism stands as a powerful reminder of the potential for greatness for even those born with shortcomings.
Pope Joan (2009)
This film spotlights the only female pope, whose existence still remains a mystery, with most believing her story to be fictional.