Women in Film: A Brief History

By Don Wilburn

A Times Staff Feature

International Women's Month is a time to celebrate the contribution of women to society. One field where women have made significant strides is in the film industry.

Women in film can be traced back to the early days of silent films.

However, it wasn't until the 1970s and 80s that we saw a significant increase in female-driven movies that featured strong, independent female characters.

In those early days women were often cast in supporting roles and played the traditional archetypes of mothers, wives, and girlfriends. It wasn't until the 1930s that we saw leading female characters in films like 'Gone with the Wind.'

The 1930s and 1940s were known as the 'Golden Age of Hollywood,' and during this time films like 'Gone with the Wind,' 'The Wizard of Oz,' and 'His Girl Friday' featured female leads who were not just there to support the male characters but had their own stories and motivations. However, these characters were still limited by the social norms of the time.

This continued well into the 1950s and early 1960s, as Hollywood entered a more conservative era.

Female characters were once again briefly reduced to supporting roles, often playing the love interest or the damsel in distress. It wasn't until the late 1960s and 1970s, with the rise of the feminist movement, that women began to reclaim their place in cinema.

In the 1960s, the women's liberation movement began to gain momentum, and women in film started to challenge traditional gender roles. Actresses like Audrey Hepburn and Elizabeth Taylor were celebrated for their beauty and talent, but they also played characters who defied expectations. Hepburn's 'Holly Golightly' in 'Breakfast at Tiffany's' was a free-spirited woman who didn't need a man to take care of her. Taylor's 'Martha' in 'Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?' was a woman who refused to conform to societal norms and challenged her husband's dominance.

The 1970s saw a rise in feminist-themed movies like 'An Unmarried Woman' and 'Norma Rae.' These films told stories of women fighting for their rights and standing up for themselves. The films received critical acclaim and brought attention to women's issues, but they still had limited box office success.

It wasn't until the 1980s that we saw a significant increase in female-driven movies that featured strong, independent female characters that were also considered profitable due to their female protagonists that women in film hit its' stride. One of the most iconic and influential women in film history is Sigourney Weaver. With a career spanning over four decades, Weaver has played a wide range of roles, from the fierce and determined Ellen Ripley in the sci-fi classic 'Alien' to the ambitious and ruthless corporate executive Kathryn Murphy in 'Working Girl.' Weaver's performances have challenged gender norms and paved the way for future generations of women in film. Ripley was a groundbreaking character because she defied stereotypes of what a female hero should be. She was tough, smart, and didn't rely on a man to

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save her.

Films like 'Thelma & Louise,' 'Norma Rae,' and 'The Color Purple' broke new ground in terms of representation of women on screen. They tackled issues such as sexual harassment, domestic abuse, and discrimination, exposing the harsh realities faced by many women in society. These films paved the way for more modernday classics such as 'Erin Brockovich,' 'Million Dollar Baby,' and 'Wonder Woman,' which feature strong female leads who are not afraid to break down barriers and fight for what is right.

Another 80s hidden gem that exemplifies strong women in film is 'The Legend of Billie Jean,' released in 1985. The movie tells the story of a teenage girl named Billie Jean, played by Helen Slater, who becomes a symbol of empowerment for young girls everywhere. The movie was marketed as a teen drama, but it was so much more than that.

Billie Jean was a feminist icon who stood up against the system and fought for justice.

One of the most iconic scenes in the movie is

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when Billie Jean cuts off her hair after being repeatedly ignored by law enforcement. Her haircut becomes a symbol of rebellion, and other girls follow suit. This scene is powerful because it shows that women don't have to conform to societal expectations to be accepted. They can be themselves and still be strong.

The film was revolutionary in many ways. It challenged the notion that women had to be passive and submissive and portrayed a female character who was not afraid to fight for what she believed in.

The film's iconic line, 'Fair is fair,' became a rallying cry for young girls and women everywhere, inspiring them to stand up against oppression and demand equality.

'The Legend of Billie Jean' was ahead of its time in its portrayal of a strong female lead. The movie tackled topics like sexual assault, gender inequality, and the power of the media. The film was not a box office success, but it has since become a cult classic and has influenced many filmmakers.

Helen Slater's portrayal of Billie Jean was nothing short of spectacular. She imbued the character with a fierce determination and unwavering courage that were reminiscent of Joan of Arc. Slater's performance was praised by critics, who noted her ability to capture the spirit of a new feminist icon. Her portrayal was so powerful that it resonated with audiences all over the world.

As we continue to celebrate International Women's Month, it is important to remember the trailblazers who paved the way for the powerful and inspiring women we see on screen today. From Sigourney Weaver to Linda Hamilton to the 'fair is fair' attitude of Helen Slater's Billie Jean Davy, these characters have become symbols of hope and inspiration for generations of women around the world.

Don Wilbutn is a staff reporter for the Evening Times and an avid film buff. He’s seen ‘ The Exorcist’ about a hundred and sixty- seven times, and it keeps getting funnier every single time he sees it.