This curated list of films celebrates the dynamic and often challenging world of business through the lens of female protagonists. These stories not only entertain but also inspire, offering insights into the complexities of leadership, ambition, and the personal sacrifices often required in the pursuit of professional success. Each film provides a unique perspective on what it means to be a business lady in various industries and eras, making this collection valuable for anyone interested in business, gender dynamics, or simply compelling storytelling.
Working Girl (1988)
Description: A Staten Island secretary, played by Melanie Griffith, seizes an opportunity to climb the corporate ladder when her boss breaks her leg, showcasing the struggles and triumphs of a woman in the 1980s business world.
Fact: The film was nominated for six Academy Awards, including Best Picture.
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Erin Brockovich (2000)
Description: Erin Brockovich, portrayed by Julia Roberts, is a single mother who becomes a legal assistant and almost single-handedly brings down a California power company accused of polluting a city's water supply.
Fact: Julia Roberts won an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role, and the real Erin Brockovich made a cameo in the film.
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Miss Congeniality (2000)
Description: An FBI agent goes undercover in the Miss United States beauty pageant, revealing the business side of beauty competitions and the personal growth of the protagonist.
Fact: Sandra Bullock did most of her own stunts in the film.
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North Country (2005)
Description: Based on a true story, this film follows a woman who becomes the first female to work in a Minnesota iron mine and subsequently leads a class action lawsuit against sexual harassment.
Fact: Charlize Theron gained weight for the role to accurately portray the physicality of the job.
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The Devil Wears Prada (2006)
Description: This film follows the journey of a young aspiring journalist who becomes the assistant to the formidable editor-in-chief of a high-fashion magazine, showcasing the cutthroat world of fashion publishing.
Fact: Meryl Streep's character, Miranda Priestly, was inspired by Vogue editor Anna Wintour. The film was initially considered for a sequel but it never materialized.
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The Iron Lady (2011)
Description: This biographical film chronicles the life of Margaret Thatcher, Britain's first female Prime Minister, focusing on her political career and personal life.
Fact: Meryl Streep won her third Academy Award for her portrayal of Thatcher.
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The Help (2011)
Description: While primarily about race relations, the film also explores the business of writing and publishing through the character of Skeeter, who writes a book about the lives of African-American maids in the 1960s South.
Fact: The film was adapted from Kathryn Stockett's novel, which was initially rejected by 60 literary agents before being published.
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The Big Short (2015)
Description: While not exclusively about a business lady, it features Margot Robbie's character explaining complex financial concepts, highlighting the role of women in understanding and navigating the financial crisis.
Fact: The film uses celebrity cameos to explain financial terms in a unique way, making it both educational and entertaining.
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The Intern (2015)
Description: A 70-year-old widower becomes a senior intern at an online fashion site, where he forms a bond with the company's workaholic CEO, exploring themes of mentorship and the evolving role of women in business.
Fact: The film was inspired by a real-life program at a tech company where seniors were hired as interns.
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Joy (2015)
Description: This biographical drama tells the story of Joy Mangano, an entrepreneur who built a business empire starting with the invention of the Miracle Mop.
Fact: Jennifer Lawrence, who plays Joy, did not use a stunt double for the scenes where she had to perform physical tasks like mopping.
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