Highly Rated Films Directed By Female Directors

In the world of cinema, numerous remarkable movies have been created by talented female directors. Today, we’ll dive into a selection of these game-changing films that have left a significant mark on the history of cinema. From classic masterpieces to contemporary gems, these films have captivated audiences and earned critical acclaim. Let’s explore these cinematic treasures that have been directed by women.

Barbie (2023, Greta Gerwig)

We begin our journey with “Barbie,” a 2023 film directed by the visionary Greta Gerwig. If you haven’t seen “Barbie” yet, you’re missing out on a cultural phenomenon. The story revolves around Barbie’s adventure as she ventures into the real world to bring joy to the girl playing with her. This heartwarming film garnered immense praise and made cinematic history by becoming the highest-grossing movie ever directed by a woman, amassing over $1 billion at the box office. “Barbie” shattered records and proved that female directors have the power to create blockbusters that resonate with audiences worldwide.

Wonder Woman (2017, Patty Jenkins)

In 2017, Patty Jenkins brought us “Wonder Woman,” a groundbreaking superhero film that introduced Diana Prince, an Amazonian warrior, to the silver screen. This film not only marked a significant milestone for female-centric superhero movies but also established Patty Jenkins as the first woman to direct a major superhero film. The story follows Diana’s journey as she confronts external threats during World War I, driven by her duty to protect the Amazonians. While the future of “Wonder Woman 3” remains uncertain, the impact of the 2017 installment on the superhero genre is undeniable.

The Hurt Locker (2008, Kathryn Bigelow)

Kathryn Bigelow directed the intense and gritty war film “The Hurt Locker” in 2008. The movie offers a gripping portrayal of an Explosive Ordnance Disposal team during the Iraq War, exploring the harrowing experiences of soldiers and their post-traumatic stress disorder. Kathryn Bigelow made history by becoming the first woman to win the Academy Award for Best Director in 2009. Her groundbreaking achievement paved the way for future female directors and solidified her place in cinematic history.

Nomadland (2020, Chloé Zhao)

“Nomadland,” directed by Chloé Zhao, takes us on a journey through the life of a widow traversing the United States in her van, embracing a nomadic existence. Chloé Zhao’s remarkable direction earned her the distinction of being the second woman ever to win the Best Director award at the Academy Awards. This film is a testament to Zhao’s exceptional cinematographic skills and features a standout performance by Frances McDormand. Its breathtaking imagery and compelling narrative make “Nomadland” a cinematic masterpiece.

American Psycho (2000, Mary Harron)

Directed by Mary Harron, “American Psycho” is a satirical psychological horror film that stars Christian Bale as an investment banker who moonlights as a serial killer. Harron’s film delves into themes such as yuppie culture, capitalism, and the pursuit of perfection. “American Psycho” has earned a reputation as one of the best horror movies, with Bale’s performance receiving critical acclaim. Harron’s unique approach to storytelling and dark humor has left an indelible mark on the genre.

Lady Bird (2019, Greta Gerwig)

Greta Gerwig’s directorial debut, “Lady Bird,” is a poignant coming-of-age film that delves into the life of a young girl navigating the complexities of her relationships, particularly with her mother. This film stands as a raw and authentic portrayal of the transition into young adulthood, resonating with audiences on a deeply emotional level. Gerwig’s storytelling prowess shines in “Lady Bird,” making it a must-watch coming-of-age classic.

The Woman King (2022, Gina Prince-Bythewood)

In 2022, Gina Prince-Bythewood directed “The Woman King,” a historical action film based on the real-life Agojie, a group of warrior women in Africa during the 17th to 19th centuries. The movie primarily follows a general as she trains the next generation of warriors to face formidable enemies. “The Woman King” may have been overlooked by the Academy Awards, but its outstanding cast, led by Viola Davis, and Prince-Bythewood’s exceptional storytelling make it a remarkable cinematic experience.

The Babadook (2014, Jennifer Kent)

Jennifer Kent’s “The Babadook” is a psychological horror masterpiece that arguably paved the way for a resurgence of psychological horror films. The story revolves around a single mother and her son, who encounter a sinister presence in their home. Kent’s expertly crafted suspense and psychological tension set a high standard for the genre, influencing subsequent films like “Midsommar” and “Hereditary.”

The Farewell (2019, Lulu Wang)

Lulu Wang’s “The Farewell,” released in 2019, portrays a Chinese American family grappling with the impending loss of their grandmother. Rather than revealing the truth to the elderly woman, they plan a family gathering to celebrate her life. This heartwarming and culturally resonant film features an exceptional Asian cast and showcases Awkwafina’s dramatic talents. “The Farewell” is a cinematic gem that captures the essence of Asian culture and family dynamics.

Marie Antoinette (2006, Sofia Coppola)

Sofia Coppola’s “Marie Antoinette,” released in 2006, offers a visually stunning portrayal of the life of the iconic Queen of France during the turbulent years leading up to the French Revolution. The film not only earned an Academy Award for Best Costume Design but also dazzled audiences with its exquisite cinematography. “Marie Antoinette” stands as a testament to Sofia Coppola’s ability to create visually captivating period pieces.

Clueless (1995, Amy Heckerling)

“Clueless,” directed by Amy Heckerling, is a timeless coming-of-age teen comedy loosely based on Jane Austen’s “Emma.” Set in Beverly Hills, the film follows a teenager’s journey of self-discovery as she embarks on a mission to perform acts of kindness. “Clueless” has become an iconic teen film, known for its memorable quotes and Heckerling’s modern take on Austen’s classic story.

Women Talking (2022, Sarah Polley)

Finally, we have “Women Talking,” a 2022 film directed by Sarah Polley, based on the 2018 novel of the same name. The movie explores the lives of Mennonite women who confront a disturbing revelation: the men of their colony have a history of sexually assaulting them. “Women Talking” tackles profound and serious topics, earning nominations for Best Picture and winning the Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay. Sarah Polley’s thought-provoking film is hailed as one of the standout movies of 2022.

These twelve films, each directed by a remarkable female director, have left an indelible mark on the world of cinema. From breaking box office records to reshaping genres, these movies are testaments to the talent and creativity of women in the film industry. While these are just a few examples, there are countless more films directed by women that deserve recognition and celebration. If you haven’t already, make it a point to discover these cinematic treasures and appreciate the diverse voices and stories they bring to the silver screen.