6 Recommendations for Films that Address Gender Equality Issues, Many Inspirations to be Taken!

Kapanlagi.com - In the continuously evolving modern era, gender equality issues have become important discussions for people all over the world. Injustices in various aspects of life for women continue to be challenges that need to be faced. Thankfully, there is one medium that can play a significant role in raising awareness of these issues, which is cinema.

Films not only have the ability to entertain, but can also serve as inspiration. Through the scenes portrayed, films have the ability to address relevant social issues. Usually, this is conveyed in a deep and emotional manner, including gender equality issues. Here are some recommended films that address these issues:

1. KARTINI (2017)

Credit: Legacy Pictures

Film KARTINI is directed by Hanung Bramantyo and tells the story of a Kartini (Dian Sastrowardoyo). As known, Kartini comes from a patriarchal family. Therefore, she struggles to refute all discrimination and open opportunities for women to have the same chances. Furthermore, she also educates women to fight for gender equality in her time.

2. MULAN (2020)

MULAN is a Disney animated film that was released in 1998. However, in 2020, Disney produced a live-action version of MULAN. This film tells the story of a young woman who disguises herself as a man and joins the ranks of the Chinese army.

She does this because her father is unable to participate in the war. Thus, Mulan (Liu Yifei) is a reflection of the strength, bravery, and leadership that are combined within women to defend their country.

3. YUNI (2021)

Credit: Star Vision

The film directed by Kamila Andini tells the story of Yuni (Arawinda Kirana) who is surrounded by patriarchal culture. The demand to follow that culture requires Yuni to marry an uneducated man. Yuni tries hard to refuse and fight for her dreams. Even though it goes against the local culture.

4. LIPSTICK UNDER MY BURKHA (2016)

Credit: Prakash Jha Production

The film LIPSTICK UNDER MY BURKHA comes from India and is directed by Alankrita Shrivastava. In general, the film tells the story of four Indian women living in a crowded small town. However, they have lives, dreams, aspirations to obtain freedom from patriarchal society.

These four women consist of Ada Rehana (Plabita Borthakur), Usha (Ratna Pathak Shah), Leela (Aahana Kumra), and Shirin (Konkona Sen Sharma). They have different backgrounds but share the same goal. That's what makes this film exciting to watch.

5. HIDDEN FIGURES (2016)

Credit: Fox 2000 Pictures

HIDDEN FIGURES is a film based on the true story of Katherine Goble, a NASA mathematician. This film tells the story of three NASA staff members, Katherine Goble Johnson (Taraji P Henson), Dorothy Vaughan (Octavia Spencer), and Mary Jackson (Janelle Monae), who did not have equal opportunities in their field. Additionally, being black made it even more difficult for them to be accepted in society at that time.

6. SUFFRAGETTE (2015)

Credit: 20th Century Fox

The suffragette movement in 1912 forced women to go through tension and extreme actions to gain their political rights. The story focuses on Maud (Carey Mulligan), who is secretly recruited to join a group of women demanding those rights. This movement was led by British women's rights activist, Emmeline Pankhurst (Meryl Streep), and they successfully achieved their goals.

After seeing some recommendations above, it can be acknowledged that cinema plays an important role in building awareness and inspiration, especially in the struggle for gender equality. Films that address these issues not only influence thinking, but also lead everyone towards positive change. So, are you ready for a film marathon with this theme?

Author: Nihel Rashiqa Rinaldo

(kpl/wri)