In just a few weeks, Netflix will drop ‘Girlboss,’ the story of bad-girl Sophia Amoruso and her rags-to-riches journey of female empowerment, overcoming the odds to launch a fashion career in Los Angeles. Can’t wait until April 21? Check out seven other feminist movies and television shows to binge-watch on Netflix, because we all need more girl power.
1. She’s Beautiful When She’s Angry (2014)
Trace your feminist roots back to the 1960s with this inspiring documentary about the women who spearheaded the movement, fighting for gender equality. “She’s Beautiful” – through painstainkingly thorough research – celebrates the lives of activists and serves as the perfect reminder now for us to keep fighting.
2. Orange Is The New Black (2013–Present)
Now in its fourth season, OITNB is quickly becoming one of the most important shows for feminists, from its portrayal of women of color and women’s sexuality, to changing perceptions of women in prison.
3. Vessel (2014)
While the fight for abortion and Planned Parenthood funding rages on in the United States, “Vessel” offers an intimate, no-holds-barred look at the fight for women’s bodies around the world. It follows Rebecca Gomberts, a Dutch doctor who opened a clinic on a boat, providing medical abortions in international waters for women fearing legal consequences in their home nations.
4. Call the Midwife (2012–Present)
It’s the feminist anthem you haven’t heard about – till now. “Call the Midwife,” hailing from across the pond, is the period piece fans of “Downton Abbey” have been searching for. The series begins in the late 1950s, and follows the nuns and midwives in an impoverished London convent. It might be set decades ago, but the issues these women tackle – abortion, marriage, following your dreams, death and aging – are obviously still relevant. And it gets bonus points for its predominantly female cast.
5. A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night
Described by its director as the world’s first “Iranian vampire spaghetti western,” this film by Ana Lily Amirpour is in a league of its own. While, at its core, it’s about a budding romance between the Girl – a loner-type who surrounds herself with feminist icons and rock music – and Arash, “A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night” also explores themes of body autonomy, sex work, female desire and sexuality and gender roles.
