Top 3 Female-Led Blockbusters of 2017: A Year of Empowerment
2017 was a landmark year for female-led films, breaking box office records and promoting female empowerment. Films like Star Wars: The Last Jedi, Beauty and the Beast, and Wonder Woman showcased strong women characters, inspiring audiences worldwide. These successes also reflected broader industry shifts toward diversity. This article reviews these key movies and their cultural significance, highlighting a year of cinematic progress for women and setting the stage for future inclusive storytelling.
Reflecting on the Most Impactful Female-Centric Films of 2017
2017 marked a pivotal year in cinematic history, especially for films centered around strong female protagonists. After a gap of 59 years, female-led movies reclaimed the top positions at global box offices. Historically, 1958 saw titles like Auntie Mame and South Pacific dominate charts. This resurgence in 2017 signifies a shift towards gender representation and empowering storytelling in Hollywood, echoing a broader movement for equality and diversity in the industry.
Films such as Star Wars: The Last Jedi, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, and Wonder Woman topped the charts in 2017, illustrating the growing popularity of stories driven by female characters. Their success underscores Hollywood's increasing focus on women’s empowerment, especially amid industry challenges related to gender misconduct allegations. These box office wins serve as a powerful statement about the importance of diverse, female-driven narratives in modern cinema.
Star Wars: The Last Jedi (featuring Daisy Ridley as Rey)
This blockbuster grossed over $533 million domestically, showcasing a universe where women lead iconic roles. Daisy Ridley’s Rey, a resilient Jedi in training, embodies strength and independence. The film also features Carrie Fisher’s poignant final appearance, elevating the story’s emotional impact as Rey hones her skills for the impending battle against the First Order.
Beauty and the Beast (starring Emma Watson as Belle)
Disney’s live-action adaptation earned more than $500 million globally, revamping the classic fairy tale with a modern, female-empowering twist. Emma Watson’s portrayal of Belle emphasizes independence, courage, and moral integrity. The story focuses on Belle’s decision to sacrifice for her loved ones, highlighting themes of self-reliance and compassion.
Wonder Woman (featuring Gal Gadot as Diana Prince)
Gal Gadot’s Wonder Woman became a cultural icon and a top grossing action film with over $412 million worldwide. The film depicts an Amazon warrior discovering her strength and sense of justice, conveying messages of hope and equality. Directed by Patty Jenkins, it also became the highest-grossing female-directed superhero movie, inspiring women across industries.
Additional Noteworthy Films
2017 also saw the release of Lady Bird, exploring adolescence and family dynamics, and Girls Trip, a comedy featuring leading actresses Jada Pinkett Smith and Tiffany Haddish. This year truly celebrated female stories of resilience, independence, and empowerment. Here's to more movies that promote diversity and female representation in the years ahead!
