As we celebrate the International Day of the Girl Child 2024, we highlight incredible stories that inspire girls to envision bold futures. This year’s theme emphasizes the hopes, dreams, and potential of girls worldwide to lead, innovate, and reshape the world around them. In alignment with this vision, the following movies showcase strong, determined young female characters breaking barriers, facing challenges, and achieving greatness. Here’s our top picks of films that have not only appealed to audiences across generations but have also inspired viewers with powerful messages of resilience, courage, and ambition. The list is curated based on criteria such as audience appeal, the level of inspiration, box office success, and recognition through awards.
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10
The Queen’s Gambit (2020)
The Queen’s Gambit tells the story of Beth Harmon, a young orphan with a natural talent for chess. Overcoming personal struggles with addiction and the male-dominated world of competitive chess, she rises to become a world champion. Her journey from an orphanage to international fame highlights determination, genius, and independence. The movie was a major hit among young adults and chess enthusiasts. It won an Emmy Award for Outstanding Limited Series.
9
Brave (2012)
In medieval Scotland, Princess Merida defies expectations of royal life by rejecting an arranged marriage. Instead, she embarks on a journey of self-discovery and bravery to change her fate. Along the way, she must mend the bond with her mother and find the courage to face her challenges head-on. It was a great hit with younger audiences and Disney fans. Merida’s fight to control her own destiny teaches girls about independence and courage. The movie won an academy Award for Best Animated Feature.
8
Queen of Katwe (2016)
Queen of Katwe is based on the real-life story of Phiona Mutesi, a young girl from the slums of Katwe, Uganda, who discovers an exceptional talent for chess. With the help of her coach, she rises to become one of the country’s top players, showing that intelligence and perseverance can overcome even the most challenging circumstances. The movie was a hit inspiring those interested in sports and overcoming adversity, Phiona’s journey from poverty to becoming a chess champion is a story of hope and triumph. It was nominated for various awards, including the NAACP Image Awards.
7
Mulan (2020)
Mulan, a young woman in ancient China, disguises herself as a man to take her ailing father’s place in the army. Along her journey, Mulan shows bravery and leadership, proving that courage knows no gender. The film is a story of self-discovery, honor, and challenging societal norms. It has a strong appeal to both young girls and families. The movie was nominated for Academy Awards.
6
A League of Their Own (1992)
During World War II, when male baseball players were drafted, women were given the opportunity to play professionally. A League of Their Own follows two sisters as they navigate the challenges of joining the first-ever professional women’s baseball league. This heartwarming story explores themes of perseverance, sisterhood, and breaking gender norms. Its a movie loved by sports fans and history enthusiasts and shows the strength of breaking barriers. With a box office sale of $132 million and was nominated for Golden Globes.
5
Wonder Woman (2017)
The movie is about Diana, a princess of the Amazons, who is raised on a sheltered island, trained to be an unstoppable warrior. When a pilot crashes on her island and tells her of a war raging in the outside world, Diana leaves her home to fight. As Wonder Woman, she uses her strength and compassion to save the world and fight for justice. A favorite among superhero fans and action enthusiasts. Diana’s heroism inspires girls to embrace strength, compassion, and bravery and nominated for multiple awards.
