Movies That Decenter Men: Across the globe, filmmakers are crafting compelling stories that highlight women’s strength, independence, and personal journeys. These international films redefine traditional gender roles by shifting the focus away from men and instead zeroing in on women’s unique experiences. Below is a selection of international films that embrace female empowerment, shedding light on women’s lives beyond their relationships with men.
1. Portrait of a Lady on Fire (2019) – France
- Director: Céline Sciamma
- Synopsis: Set in the late 1700s, the film follows Marianne, an artist tasked with secretly painting a portrait of Héloïse, a young woman betrothed to a man. As they spend time together, a powerful connection forms between the two women.
- Why It Shifts Focus from Men: The story centers solely on the relationship between two women, delving deep into love, desire, and self-expression without male influence.
- Noteworthy Aspect: The film’s portrayal of female desire and individuality through art subverts conventional romantic narratives.
2. Mustang (2015) – Turkey
- Director: Deniz Gamze Ergüven
- Synopsis: This drama follows five sisters as they confront societal expectations and family restrictions in a conservative rural community after being seen playing with boys.
- Why It Shifts Focus from Men: The film emphasizes the bond between the sisters and their collective fight against patriarchal oppression, with little focus on male relationships.
- Noteworthy Aspect: It highlights the struggles of young women in traditional societies, making a poignant statement on freedom and autonomy and decenter men.
3. The Breadwinner (2017) – Ireland/Canada
- Director: Nora Twomey
- Synopsis: Based on Deborah Ellis’s graphic novel, the film tells the story of Parvana, a young Afghan girl who dresses as a boy to support her family after her father is imprisoned by the Taliban.
- Why It Shifts Focus from Men: Parvana’s journey, determination, and independence are at the heart of the film, showcasing her resilience in a male-dominated world.
- Noteworthy Aspect: As an animated feature, it brings serious social issues to light in a way that is accessible to a wide audience.
4. Wild (2014) – USA
- Director: Jean-Marc Vallée
- Synopsis: Based on Cheryl Strayed’s memoir, the film follows Cheryl (Reese Witherspoon) as she embarks on a solo hike along the Pacific Crest Trail after facing personal losses and a failed marriage.
- Why It Shifts Focus from Men: The plot revolves around Cheryl’s personal growth, essentially decenter men, and journey toward self-discovery rather than her romantic past.
- Noteworthy Aspect: The film highlights themes of self-reliance and healing, illustrating a woman’s quest to reclaim her identity.
5. Lady Bird (2017) – USA
- Director: Greta Gerwig
- Synopsis: The film follows Christine “Lady Bird” McPherson (Saoirse Ronan) through her senior year of high school, exploring her relationship with her mother and desire for independence.
- Why It Shifts Focus from Men: The narrative centers on Lady Bird’s relationship with her mother, rather than romantic entanglements, showcasing the complexities of female relationships.
- Noteworthy Aspect: Its fresh take on mother-daughter dynamics offers a refreshing shift from the often male-centric focus in coming-of-age films.
6. The Farewell (2019) – USA/China
All photos are copyrighted and may be used by press only for the purpose of news or editorial coverage of Sundance Institute programs. Photos must be accompanied by a credit to the photographer and/or ‘Courtesy of Sundance Institute.’ Unauthorized use, alteration, reproduction or sale of logos and/or photos is strictly prohibited.
- Director: Lulu Wang
- Synopsis: Billi (Awkwafina) returns to China under the guise of attending a wedding, as her family keeps her grandmother’s terminal illness a secret. The film explores the nuances of cultural identity and familial bonds.
- Why It Shifts Focus from Men: The film revolves around the women in Billi’s family, with the main focus on her relationship with her grandmother.
- Noteworthy Aspect: The exploration of cultural traditions and intergenerational relationships highlights the strength of women’s connections across boundaries.
7. Queen of Katwe (2016) – USA
- Director: Mira Nair
- Synopsis: This true story follows Phiona Mutesi (Madina Nalwanga), a girl from the slums of Uganda who rises to become a chess champion.
- Why It Shifts Focus from Men: Phiona’s journey is shown through her own perspective, focusing on her dreams and growth, independent of male characters.
- Noteworthy Aspect: The film underscores the transformative power of education and mentorship, offering a powerful message of empowerment for young girls.
8. A Fantastic Woman (2017) – Chile
- Director: Sebastián Lelio
- Synopsis: Marina (Daniela Vega), a transgender woman, faces a wave of discrimination after the death of her older partner, fighting for her dignity and acceptance in a hostile society.
- Why It Shifts Focus from Men: Marina’s story centers on her identity and struggle for justice, putting her personal resilience at the forefront.
- Noteworthy Aspect: By exploring transgender issues, the film sheds light on the broader theme of women’s strength in the face of adversity.
9. The Assistant (2019) – USA
- Director: Kitty Green
- Synopsis: This film follows Jane (Julia Garner), an assistant to a powerful film executive, as she experiences the subtle, yet pervasive sexism in her workplace over the course of a single day.
- Why It Shifts Focus from Men: The narrative highlights Jane’s perspective and her exposure to the toxic work environment, focusing on systemic misogyny instead of male figures.
- Noteworthy Aspect: Its understated tension and atmosphere underscore the daily realities faced by women in professional settings.
10. The Third Wife (2018) – Vietnam
- Director: Ash Mayfair
- Synopsis: Set in 19th-century Vietnam, the film tells the story of May, a young girl who becomes the third wife of a wealthy man, exploring her desires and personal choices within the confines of a patriarchal society.
- Why It Shifts Focus from Men: The film centers on May’s emotional journey and internal struggles, emphasizing her agency and experiences over male influences.
- Noteworthy Aspect: The film’s beautiful cinematography enhances its exploration of female desires and challenges within a historical context.
Final Thoughts
International cinema offers a wealth of films that place women’s stories at the forefront, decentering men and redefining traditional gender roles. These films celebrate the complexities of women’s experiences, portraying their struggles, triumphs, and resilience. By focusing on female empowerment, they provide important narratives that resonate across cultures, reminding viewers that women’s stories are universal and deeply meaningful. Whether through intimate character studies or broader social commentaries, these films elevate the voices of women and their journeys toward independence and strength.
