Entertainment

13 Empowering Netflix Movies For Your International Women's Day Marathon

by Megan Walsh

Adam Berry/Getty Images News/Getty Images

International Women's Day is all about recognizing the achievements of women and it's been doing so for more than a century, ever since the day of appreciation was created back in 1908. In turbulent times, the yearly reminder can feel incredibly necessary and comforting. It's a day to be positive and celebrate women all over the world for all their triumphs, big or small. This year IWD falls on March 8, and what better way to celebrate than heading over to Netflix to browse the numerous women-friendly films available there? It's way to unwind and enjoy women in film all at once. And these 13 empowering Netflix movies for your International Women's Day marathon are a perfect way to pass the day.

Netflix has all kinds of super specific categories so you can find something exactly to your liking; there aren't only documentaries and comedies and dramas, but Women Who Rule The Screen and Quirky TV Shows Featuring A Strong Female Lead – just to name a couple of options on display. You can celebrate IWD with something serious and thought-provoking, or something light and happy designed to distract you. Whatever it is you're looking for, Netflix has got you covered. The possibilities are endless.

'Miss Representation'

Miss Representation is a documentary all about how women are represented on screen, making it a good way to start a female-centric movie marathon. Sharpen those critical thinking skills!

Girls' Club Entertainment

'Amélie'

But if you're in the mood for a lighthearted, whimsical romance instead, then there's really nothing better than Amélie.

Canal+

'Short Term 12'

As a film with stunning performances that explores complicated issues from a female point of view, this is a must for IWD.

Cinedigm

'For A Good Time, Call...'

Despite the silliness of the plot (a successful phone sex line in this day and age?), this is a comedy that celebrates female friendship and always puts the relationship between its leads first.

Focus Features

'A Girl Walks Home Alone At Night'

If horror is more your thing, then this unusual vampire flick (directed by a woman, too!) will be exactly what you're looking for.

VICE Films

'Iris'

This documentary about style icon Iris Apfel is not only a feast for the eyes, but a creative look at a woman who lived life on her terms.

Magnolia Pictures

'Girlhood'

Coming of age movies can often focus so exclusively on boys, so this French coming of age drama tells one version of a story that's not told often enough: the confusing and messy journey of growing up when you're a girl.

Hold Up Film

'Tig'

This documentary about comedian Tig Notaro is both funny and deeply moving, chronicling her breast cancer diagnosis, her relationship, her career, and the loss of her mother. Notaro deals with things so many many women have also struggled with, and the way she does so is inspiring.

Netflix

'Pariah'

Pariah is another female-led coming of age drama that deals with sexuality, identity, and how those things intersect.

Focus Features

'Life Partners'

Life Partners also deals with female friendship, specifically those complicated feelings that come up when your bestie finds someone else to spend all their time with. This one can get a little too real, but it all works out in the end.

Magnolia Pictures

'13th'

Though this isn't a film specifically about women, it was directed by Ava DuVernay, which means giving it a view is supporting an amazing female director. Plus, it's an important one to watch.

Netflix

'What Happened, Miss Simone?'

While Nina Simone's life story is one that's full of ups and downs, watching it unfold is a great way to celebrate one woman's musical achievements and lasting legacy – which is what the day is all about.

Netflix

'10 Things I Hate About You'

Many girls growing up in the '90s got their first taste of pop culture feminism from Julia Stiles' riot grrl-era Kat Stratford, and her badass refusal to compromise is still inspiring.

Touchstone Pictures
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