International Women’s Day 2025: Top 5 Iconic Movies That Celebrate Women’s Strength

As International Women’s Day 2025 approaches, it’s the perfect moment to celebrate the remarkable journeys of women who have defied expectations, broken barriers, and made an indelible impact on society. Whether they are daring athletes, pioneering scientists, passionate artists, or courageous journalists, these women have redefined strength and resilience.

Film has a unique ability to illuminate their inspiring narratives, showcasing the challenges they overcame and the triumphs they secured. Here are five essential films that portray the lives of real women, each serving as a powerful tribute to courage, determination, and empowerment.

1. Mary Kom (2014) – The Fighter Who Defied All Odds

Story: Mary Kom, an Indian boxer who battled her way to the top of a male-dominated sport, is the subject of this inspirational biography. She overcame countless challenges to win an Olympic medal and five world championships.

Why Watch? Priyanka Chopra’s powerful performance showcases the grit and determination of women who refuse to be limited by societal expectations.

2. Hidden Figures (2016) – The Women Who Took NASA to Space

Story: This Oscar-nominated movie honors the accomplishments of three exceptional African-American women who worked at NASA as mathematicians and engineers: Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson. Despite the racial and gender discrimination they faced, their calculations were crucial in launching the first American astronauts into space.
Why Watch? A potent reminder that women have been quietly influencing history for many years, even when their contributions went unrecognized.

3. Juice (2017) – A Reflection of Everyday Patriarchy

Story: Sometimes the most powerful stories have the greatest impact. Neeraj Ghaywan’s short film depicts gender roles in an Indian home in striking detail. Women work tirelessly in the kitchen as men relax in the living room—a scene that is both incredibly familiar and thought-provoking.
Why Watch? It’s a must-watch because of its powerful social commentary that questions the patriarchy we often take for granted.

4. The Artist Who Lived Fearlessly, Frida (2002)

Story: Frida Kahlo was a symbol of courage, tenacity, and unapologetic self-expression in addition to being an artist. Starring Salma Hayek, this stunningly stunning biopic shows how she transformed suffering into beauty while delving into her life, art, and turbulent relationship  with Diego Rivera.
Why Watch? Frida’s tale is an amazing source of inspiration since it is one of bravery, passion, and defying norms of society.

5. A Private War (2018) – The Journalist Who Risked Everything

Story: One of the most fearless war correspondents in history, Marie Colvin covered wars in Syria, Sri Lanka, and other places. This gripping drama, which stars Rosamund Pike, shows Colvin’s unwavering search for the truth despite risk and personal cost.
Why Watch? The strength of journalism and the unwavering courage of women who strive for justice are highlighted in this must-see movie.