We celebrated the International Day of the Girl Child 2024, with the theme *’Girls’ Vision for the Future’. 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.
These films 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.
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 Netflix limited series became a major hit among young adults and chess enthusiasts, inspiring young girls to defy societal expectations and excel in traditionally male-dominated fields. It achieved global success and won an Emmy Award for Outstanding Limited Series.
9
Brave (2012)
Set in medieval Scotland, Brave follows Princess Merida as she defies royal expectations by rejecting an arranged marriage, setting out instead to control her own destiny. Along her journey, Merida must reconcile with her mother and find the courage to confront her challenges, ultimately rewriting her fate. This animated adventure appeals to Disney fans and young audiences, showcasing Merida’s determination to chart her own path. The film was a box office success, grossing $540 million worldwide, and won the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature.
8
Queen of Katwe (2016)
Based on a true story, Queen of Katwe tells the inspiring journey of Phiona Mutesi, a young girl from the slums of Katwe, Uganda, who discovers an extraordinary talent for chess. Guided by her coach, she rises to become a top player in her country, defying the odds stacked against her. This uplifting film resonates with those interested in sports and overcoming adversity, illustrating how intelligence and perseverance can transcend one’s circumstances. Queen of Katwe received critical acclaim and multiple award nominations, including from the NAACP Image Awards.
7
Mulan (2020)
Mulan is the tale of a young woman who defies tradition by disguising herself as a man to take her father’s place in the army. Venturing into battle, she demonstrates bravery, loyalty, and leadership, ultimately proving that true courage is genderless. This action-packed film appeals to families and young girls, showing them that bravery comes in many forms. It achieved worldwide box office success and received several Academy Award nominations.
6
A League of Their Own (1992)
During World War II, when men were drafted, women were given the chance to play professional baseball. A League of Their Own follows two sisters who join the first-ever women’s baseball league, illustrating the challenges they face breaking into a traditionally male-dominated sport. The movie appeals to sports enthusiasts and history buffs alike, highlighting the courage required to overcome gender stereotypes. It became a box office hit, earning $132 million, and received Golden Globe nominations.
5
Wonder Woman (2017)
Diana, princess of the Amazons, is trained to be a warrior on a secluded island. When she learns about a war in the outside world, she ventures out to help, transforming into the superhero Wonder Woman. Diana’s strength, compassion, and courage inspire girls everywhere to embrace their inner hero. This action-packed blockbuster became a favorite among superhero fans, grossing $821 million globally and garnering several award nominations.
4
Little Women-(2019)
Little Women, adapted from Louisa May Alcott’s novel, tells the story of the four March sisters as they pursue their dreams in post-Civil War America. Each sister faces societal expectations and limitations as they navigate family, career, and personal aspirations. This heartwarming classic appeals to literature lovers and advocates for female empowerment, showing the resilience needed to follow one’s dreams. *Little Women* was a box office success, grossing $216 million, and earned six Academy Award nominations.
3
Hidden Figures (2016)
Hidden Figures chronicles the incredible contributions of Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson, three African-American women who played pivotal roles in NASA’s space missions despite facing racial and gender barriers. Their brilliance and determination changed history, paving the way for future generations. This empowering film appeals to those inspired by real-life stories of societal change, and it achieved box office success with $236 million and several Oscar nominations.
2
Moana (2016)
In Moana, a young Polynesian girl sets out on an epic adventure to save her island. Chosen by the ocean, Moana embarks on a journey across the sea to find the demigod Maui, restore the heart of Te Fiti, and bring peace to her people. This family favorite inspires young girls to embrace leadership and connect with their heritage, grossing $643 million globally and earning Academy Award nominations.
1
FROZEN (2013)
Frozen follows two royal sisters, Elsa and Anna, whose relationship is tested when Elsa’s powers accidentally bring eternal winter to their kingdom. In an effort to repair their bond and undo the winter spell, Anna sets out on a perilous journey. Frozen captivates audiences with its themes of sisterhood, self-discovery, and courage, shattering traditional princess tropes. The film grossed $1.28 billion worldwide and won the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature, becoming a timeless story for children and families alike.
