16 Incredible Movies and Shows Directed by Women
Lady Bird (2017)
Lady Bird McPherson, a strong-willed, deeply opinionated, artistic 17-year-old, comes of age in Sacramento. Her relationship with her mother and her upbringing are questioned and tested as she plans to head off to college. Directed by Greta Gerwig, this coming-of-age tale resonates with raw emotions and authenticity. Average Rating: 2.6
The Farewell (2019)
A headstrong Chinese-American woman returns to China when her beloved grandmother is given a terminal diagnosis. Billi struggles with her family's decision to keep grandma in the dark about her own illness as they all stage an impromptu wedding to see grandma one last time. Lulu Wang masterfully unfolds this heartfelt family drama. Average Rating: 3.9
Nomadland (2021)
A woman in her sixties embarks on a journey through the western United States after losing everything in the Great Recession, living as a van-dwelling modern-day nomad. Chloe Zhao's direction captures the vastness of the American landscape and the indomitable spirit of its protagonist. Average Rating: 4.3
Promising Young Woman (2020)
A young woman, traumatized by a tragic event in her past, seeks out vengeance against those who crossed her path. Directed by Emerald Fennell, this film blends dark comedy with poignant drama to create an unforgettable cinematic experience. Average Rating: 3.3
A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood (2019)
An award-winning cynical journalist, Lloyd Vogel, begrudgingly accepts an assignment to write an Esquire profile piece on the beloved television icon Fred Rogers. After his encounter with Rogers, Vogel's perspective on life is transformed. Marielle Heller presents a moving narrative about kindness and redemption. Average Rating: 3.8
The Edge of Seventeen (2016)
Two high school girls are best friends until one dates the other's older brother, who is totally his sister's nemesis. Kelly Fremon Craig directs this sharp and witty take on teenage life and friendships. Average Rating: 3.8
Wonder Woman (2017)
An Amazon princess comes to the world of Man in the grips of the First World War to confront the forces of evil and bring an end to human conflict. Patty Jenkins revitalizes the superhero genre with a compelling blend of mythology and action. Average Rating: 3.5
Fleabag (2016)
A portrait into the mind of a dry-witted, sexual, angry, porn-watching, grief-riddled woman, trying to make sense of the world. As she hurls herself headlong at modern living, Fleabag is thrown rough up against the walls of contemporary London, with all its frenetic energy, late nights, and bright lights. Phoebe Waller-Bridge brings this unique character to life with sharp humor and deep emotion. Average Rating: 4.2
Queen Sugar (2016)
Two sisters, Nova Bordelon and Charley Bordelon, with her teenage son Micah, move to the heart of Louisiana to claim an inheritance from her recently departed father - an 800-acre sugarcane farm. Ava DuVernay’s direction turns this story into a compelling meditation on family, legacy, and the American South. Average Rating: 3.9
The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel (2017)
It’s 1958 Manhattan and Miriam “Midge” Maisel has everything she’s ever wanted - the perfect husband, kids, and Upper West Side apartment. But when her life suddenly takes a turn and Midge must start over, she discovers a previously unknown talent - one that will take her all the way from the comedy clubs of Greenwich Village to a spot on Johnny Carson’s couch. Amy Sherman-Palladino deftly crafts this delightful and empowering journey. Average Rating: 4.3
Killing Eve (2018)
A security consultant hunts for a ruthless assassin. Equally obsessed with each other, they go head to head in an epic game of cat-and-mouse. Phoebe Waller-Bridge crafts an engaging and riveting narrative filled with tension and dark humor. Average Rating: 4.0
Orange Is the New Black (2013)
A crime she committed in her youthful past sends Piper Chapman to a women's prison, where she trades her comfortable New York life for one of unexpected camaraderie and conflict in an eccentric group of fellow inmates. Jenji Kohan's creation offers insightful social commentary and unforgettable characters. Average Rating: 4.0
Unbelievable (2019)
A teenager is charged with lying about her rape allegation, but two determined investigative female detectives discover a far more sinister truth. Susannah Grant’s direction gives this true-crime series a gripping intensity. Average Rating: 4.0
Insecure (2016)
Follows the awkward experiences and racy tribulations of a modern-day African-American woman. Issa Rae and Melina Matsoukas brilliantly bring these complex characters to life in this comedy-drama filled with relatable situations. Average Rating: 3.9
I May Destroy You (2020)
Set in London, where gratification is only an app away, the story centers on Arabella, a carefree, self-assured Londoner with a group of great friends, a boyfriend in Italy, and a burgeoning writing career. But when her drink is spiked, she must question and rebuild every element of her life. Michaela Coel magnificently explores themes of trauma, consent, and personal growth. Average Rating: 4.3
Big Little Lies (2017)
The tale of three mothers of first graders whose apparently perfect lives unravel to the point of murder. Jean-Marc Vallée and Andrea Arnold’s direction showcases deep, interwoven narratives brought to life by a stellar cast. Average Rating: 4.3