10 Films Celebrating the Lives of Remarkable Women

Description: Salma Hayek stars as Frida Kahlo, the iconic Mexican painter known for her vibrant self-portraits and tumultuous life. The film explores her art, her relationship with Diego Rivera, and her resilience in the face of physical and emotional pain.

Fact: Salma Hayek was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actress, and the film was produced by Hayek herself.

Description: Julia Roberts delivers a powerhouse performance as Erin Brockovich, a single mother who takes on a massive corporation in a landmark environmental lawsuit. Her tenacity and determination are both inspiring and empowering.

Fact: Erin Brockovich herself made a cameo in the film, and Julia Roberts won an Oscar for her role.

Description: While primarily about John Nash, the film also highlights the strength of his wife, Alicia, who stood by him through his struggles with schizophrenia. Her unwavering support is a testament to the power of love and resilience.

Fact: The film was based on the biography by Sylvia Nasar, and Jennifer Connelly won an Oscar for her role as Alicia Nash.

Description: Helen Mirren's portrayal of Queen Elizabeth II during the week following Princess Diana's death is both poignant and insightful, offering a rare glimpse into the private life of the monarch during a time of national mourning.

Fact: Helen Mirren won an Academy Award for Best Actress, and the film was shot with the cooperation of the British Royal Family.

Description: This film delves into the life of Margaret Thatcher, Britain's first female Prime Minister, highlighting her political ascent and the personal sacrifices she made. Meryl Streep's portrayal earned her an Academy Award, capturing Thatcher's iron will and complex character.

Fact: Meryl Streep spent time with Thatcher to prepare for the role, and the film was the first to be filmed in the Houses of Parliament.

Description: Glenn Close plays Joan Castleman, the wife of a Nobel Prize-winning author, whose own literary talents have been overshadowed by her husband's fame. The film explores themes of identity, sacrifice, and the silent strength of women.

Fact: Glenn Close won a Golden Globe for her performance, and the film was adapted from Meg Wolitzer's novel.

Description: This film focuses on Stephen Hawking's life, but it's also a tribute to his first wife, Jane, who supported him through his battle with motor neuron disease. Felicity Jones's performance as Jane is both moving and inspiring.

Fact: The film was adapted from Jane Hawking's memoir, and Eddie Redmayne won an Oscar for his portrayal of Stephen Hawking.

Description: This film brings to life the fight for women's right to vote in early 20th century Britain, focusing on the radical actions of the suffragettes. Carey Mulligan's character, Maud Watts, embodies the spirit of the movement.

Fact: The film was the first to be shot in the Houses of Parliament since World War II.

Description: Felicity Jones stars as Ruth Bader Ginsburg, the trailblazing Supreme Court Justice, showcasing her early legal battles against gender discrimination. The film captures Ginsburg's determination to change the legal landscape for women.

Fact: Ruth Bader Ginsburg herself approved of the film, and it was directed by her nephew, Daniel Stiepleman.

Description: This uplifting film tells the story of three African-American women who played pivotal roles in NASA's space race, overcoming racial and gender barriers. Their contributions were crucial to John Glenn's orbit around Earth.

Fact: The film was based on a book by Margot Lee Shetterly, who grew up in Hampton, Virginia, where the story takes place.