The Best Movies Directed by Women

Throughout cinema history, many incredibly talented women have directed groundbreaking films, constantly innovating in both storytelling and visual style. From the earliest days of silent movies to today, these directors have skillfully tackled diverse subjects and genres. Their films have often been recognized with major awards, like Oscars for Best Director and the Palme d’Or at Cannes. This list showcases fifty of the most critically and popularly acclaimed films directed by women, ranked by their overall success. Their impactful work continues to inspire filmmakers and expand what’s possible in cinema.

‘Liz and the Blue Bird’ (2018)

This animated movie, directed by Naoko Yamada, tells the story of two high school musicians, Mizore and Nozomi, and their complicated friendship. As they get ready for one last concert, their relationship echoes a classic fairy tale about a girl and a bird. While connected to the ‘Sound! Euphonium’ series, this film works perfectly well on its own, focusing on the nuances of friendship and emotional barriers. It’s beautifully animated with a soft, watercolor look and features a carefully crafted musical score.

‘The Seduction of Mimi’ (1972)

Lina Wertmüller’s Italian comedy follows a factory worker who’s fired for not supporting a corrupt politician. He relocates to Turin and gets caught up in both messy love affairs and political intrigue. The film offers a biting commentary on Italian society, challenging ideas about class, reputation, and what it means to be a man. It was a breakthrough film for Wertmüller, bringing her international recognition as a director in the 1970s.

‘Kung Fu Panda 2’ (2011)

Jennifer Yuh Nelson directed this movie, becoming the first woman to solely direct a major animated film from a large Hollywood studio. The story centers on Po and the Furious Five as they try to defeat Lord Shen, a new villain with a weapon that could destroy kung fu. Along the way, Po learns about his past and needs to find inner peace to succeed. The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Animated Feature.

‘The Virgin Suicides’ (1999)

Sofia Coppola’s first film as a director is based on the novel by Jeffrey Eugenides and centers around five sisters growing up in suburban Michigan. The story unfolds through the eyes of a group of local boys who are captivated by the sisters, even after a heartbreaking series of events. The film delicately examines feelings of loneliness, the challenges of growing up, and the hidden desires of the girls within the confines of their strict home. It’s known for its dreamy, beautiful visuals and its memorable soundtrack by the band Air.

‘Fish Tank’ (2009)

Andrea Arnold’s film is a tough, realistic look at the life of Mia, a troubled 15-year-old growing up on an Essex housing estate. Things become complicated when her mother starts dating a man, played by Michael Fassbender, who at first seems supportive of Mia’s passion for dance. The film honestly portrays the difficulties faced by working-class families and the challenges of being young and overlooked. It was highly acclaimed, winning both the Jury Prize at Cannes and the BAFTA for Best British Film.

‘Hester Street’ (1975)

Joan Micklin Silver’s film is a historical drama set in late 1800s New York City, focusing on the challenges faced by Jewish immigrants. The story centers on a couple where one partner tries to embrace American culture while the other strongly holds onto their traditions. This tension between adapting to a new world and preserving their heritage is at the heart of the movie. Despite being made with limited funds, the film was well-received by critics and earned Carol Kane an Oscar nomination for her performance.

‘Detroit’ (2017)

Kathryn Bigelow’s film is a gripping, historically-based drama about the events that unfolded at the Algiers Motel during the 1967 Detroit riots. It portrays the frightening encounter between police and a group of civilians, which tragically led to the deaths of three Black men. The film uses a realistic, documentary-like style to capture the intense and terrifying atmosphere inside the motel during the police interrogation. The filmmakers prioritized accuracy, drawing on accounts from people who survived the incident to recreate the events of that summer.

‘The Edge of Seventeen’ (2016)

Written and directed by Kelly Fremon Craig, this movie is a funny and heartfelt coming-of-age story starring Hailee Steinfeld as a realistic high schooler. Things get tricky for her when her best friend starts dating her brother. Critics love the movie’s honest conversations and how accurately it captures the struggles of being a teenager today. It stands out from typical teen films by focusing on the main character’s personal journey and the messiness of real relationships.

‘Beau Travail’ (1999)

Claire Denis’s film is a beautiful and compelling take on Herman Melville’s ‘Billy Budd,’ resetting the story within the French Foreign Legion in Djibouti. The film centers on an officer who develops a strong obsession with a captivating new recruit, which disrupts the unit’s structure and control. It’s particularly known for its striking choreography, showcasing the precise, almost dance-like movements of military drills against the backdrop of a harsh desert. Many critics consider it a landmark achievement in world cinema.

‘Nomadland’ (2020)

This drama, directed, written, and edited by Chloé Zhao, follows a woman who leaves home to wander the American West, living as a modern nomad. Frances McDormand stars in the film, which uniquely features real-life nomads portraying fictionalized versions of themselves, making the story feel very genuine. It’s a moving exploration of loss, the challenges of economic hardship, and finding connection and belonging outside of typical society. The film received high praise, winning three Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director for Zhao.

‘Point Break’ (1991)

Directed by Kathryn Bigelow, this thrilling action movie features Keanu Reeves as an FBI agent who goes undercover to investigate a group of surfers believed to be bank robbers. Patrick Swayze plays the captivating leader of the surfers, who see the robberies as a means to finance their search for the perfect wave. The film is well-known for its groundbreaking skydiving and surfing scenes, filmed using real-life stunts and effects. Over time, it’s become a beloved cult classic and a standout example of action filmmaking from the 1990s.

‘Monster’ (2003)

As a movie lover, I was really struck by this film. It’s a biographical drama, directed and written by Patty Jenkins, that tells the story of Aileen Wuornos, a woman executed for serial killings back in 2002. What blew me away was Charlize Theron’s incredible transformation to play her – she totally deserved her Oscar! The movie doesn’t shy away from the difficult parts of Wuornos’ life, but it really digs into the tragic and abusive experiences that led her down a dark path. What I appreciated most was how humanely it treated such a controversial story, avoiding sensationalism and offering a really thoughtful look at her life.

‘Big’ (1988)

Directed by Penny Marshall, ‘Big’ is a funny and heartwarming story about a boy who wishes to be grown up – and wakes up as an adult! Starring Tom Hanks as Josh Baskin, the movie follows his hilarious adventures as he tries to fit into the adult world while holding onto his childlike spirit, working at a toy company. ‘Big’ was a huge hit and helped make Penny Marshall a well-known director. It’s still a favorite movie for many, especially remembered for the famous scene with the large piano on the floor.

‘Happening’ (2021)

Directed by Audrey Diwan, this French film is based on Annie Ernaux’s personal story, taking place in 1960s France. It centers on a promising college student who finds herself pregnant and must navigate the dangerous and illegal world of abortion. The filmmakers use a narrow screen format and close-up camera work to build tension and draw viewers into the character’s experience. The film received the top prize, the Golden Lion, at the Venice Film Festival for its honest and powerful depiction of a woman taking control of her own life.

‘Rocks’ (2019)

This compelling British film, directed by Sarah Gavron, tells the story of a teenage girl in East London who becomes the caretaker for her younger brother when their mother leaves. Made with input from non-professional actors through workshops, the film feels incredibly real and captures modern youth culture authentically. It beautifully portrays the power of girls’ friendships and the challenges of dealing with social services, and has been celebrated for its collaborative spirit and diverse look at life in London.

‘Frozen’ (2013)

Disney’s ‘Frozen,’ co-directed and written by Jennifer Lee, became a huge success, ranking among the highest-grossing films ever made. Instead of a typical love story, the film focuses on the strong relationship between sisters Anna and Elsa. Elsa’s battle with her magical ice powers represents the challenges of accepting oneself and the fear of being different. The movie’s music, especially the popular song ‘Let It Go,’ was a worldwide hit and earned two Oscars.

‘Wonder Woman’ (2017)

Wonder Woman, directed by Patty Jenkins, was a groundbreaking superhero film and the first to star the iconic DC Comics character as the lead. Gal Gadot plays Diana Prince, who leaves her island home to fight in World War I. The film was both a critical and financial success, demonstrating that female-led superhero movies could be huge hits. Jenkins was lauded for skillfully combining exciting action sequences with heartfelt character development and powerful themes of heroism and empathy.

‘Zero Dark Thirty’ (2012)

Kathryn Bigelow’s film is a political thriller that follows the ten-year global search for Osama bin Laden. The story centers on Maya, a CIA analyst portrayed by Jessica Chastain, and her relentless pursuit which ultimately leads to his location. The film shows how intelligence was gathered and details the Navy SEAL raid that followed. It also caused considerable public discussion about its depiction of controversial interrogation methods used by the U.S.

‘Lady Bird’ (2017)

Greta Gerwig’s first solo directing project is a personal coming-of-age story, set in Sacramento, about a high school senior named Christine “Lady Bird” McPherson. The film centers on Lady Bird’s complicated relationship with her mother and her desire to go to college back east. It honestly portrays the challenges of growing up, figuring out who you are, and the emotional experience of leaving home. The movie was nominated for five Oscars and helped establish Gerwig as a significant filmmaker.

‘An Angel at My Table’ (1990)

Directed by Jane Campion, this film tells the life story of New Zealand author Janet Frame, based on her own three-part autobiography. It follows Frame from a difficult childhood through her battles with mental health and her rise as a writer. Originally a TV miniseries, it was later released as a feature film and won an award at the Venice Film Festival. The film is known for its beautiful visuals and sensitive depiction of a talented, but often overlooked, artist.

‘Swept Away’ (1974)

This Italian film, directed by Lina Wertmüller, tells the story of a wealthy woman and a communist sailor who find themselves stranded together on a deserted island. While there, the usual power roles are flipped, with the sailor taking charge, and a complicated romance develops. The film is a strong commentary on the class and political conflicts in Italy during the 1970s, and it remains one of Wertmüller’s most well-known and talked-about movies because of its bold exploration of power and relationships.

‘Whale Rider’ (2002)

Directed by Niki Caro, this New Zealand film tells the story of Paikea, a young Māori girl who challenges her grandfather’s traditional beliefs. According to tribal legend, only first-born sons can lead, but Paikea feels she’s meant to be a leader. The movie beautifully combines modern-day issues with the rich mythology and culture of the Māori people. Keisha Castle-Hughes’ performance was highly acclaimed, earning her an Academy Award nomination and making her one of the youngest-ever nominees.

‘Selma’ (2014)

Ava DuVernay’s film tells the powerful story of the 1965 marches from Selma to Montgomery, Alabama, which fought for voting rights. It centers on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s role and the clever strategies used to pass the Voting Rights Act. The movie realistically portrays the challenges within the Civil Rights Movement, as well as the dangerous resistance activists faced. It received critical acclaim, including an Academy Award for Best Original Song and a nomination for Best Picture.

‘Promising Young Woman’ (2020)

Emerald Fennell’s thriller, written and directed by her, features Carey Mulligan as a woman determined to avenge a previous trauma. The film follows her as she pretends to be intoxicated in nightclubs to confront men who try to exploit her. With its bright, visually striking style, the movie tackles difficult subjects like sexual assault and how society often enables it. It won an Oscar for Best Original Screenplay and generated a lot of conversation about the “Me Too” movement and issues of gender equality.

‘We Need to Talk About Kevin’ (2011)

This psychological thriller, directed by Lynne Ramsay, is based on Lionel Shriver’s novel and tells the story of a mother trying to understand her son’s terrible actions. The film jumps between different points in time, showing the complex relationship between Eva and Kevin from his childhood to his teenage years. Through powerful imagery and a non-linear storyline, the film portrays Eva’s feelings of guilt and the trauma she experiences. Tilda Swinton’s performance as a mother questioning if her son was inherently evil was highly praised by critics.

‘The Hurt Locker’ (2008)

This gripping war film, directed by Kathryn Bigelow, centers on a highly skilled Army bomb squad in Iraq. It follows Sergeant William James, a courageous but often reckless soldier whose methods cause friction within his team. The movie powerfully portrays the mental strain of war and how the constant danger can become addictive. Bigelow made history by becoming the first woman to win an Oscar for Best Director, and the film also won the Academy Award for Best Picture.

‘The Piano’ (1993)

Directed by Jane Campion, this historical drama takes place in New Zealand during the mid-1800s. It follows a silent Scottish woman who is sent to marry a man she doesn’t know, bringing along her daughter and a cherished piano. The piano becomes key to a deal she makes with a local man who works with wood. The film delves into themes of love, the challenges of communication, and the impact of colonialism, all set against a wild and beautiful landscape. It received major recognition, winning the Palme d’Or at Cannes and three Oscars, including Best Original Screenplay for Campion.

‘The Farewell’ (2019)

Directed by Lulu Wang, this funny and touching film is based on a real family story. When the grandmother in China receives a terminal cancer diagnosis, her family chooses not to tell her, and instead plans a surprise wedding hoping to reunite everyone. The movie stars Awkwafina as Billi, a Chinese-American granddaughter navigating cultural differences in how her family expresses grief and deals with difficult truths. It’s a thoughtful exploration of what it means to be an immigrant and the strong connections between family members, even when they live far apart.

‘The Gleaners and I’ (2000)

Agnès Varda’s documentary offers a fascinating look at modern-day gleaners – people who gather leftover crops and discarded items. Filmed with a simple digital camera, the movie follows Varda as she travels through France, speaking with those who rely on what others throw away. The film thoughtfully connects this age-old practice to current issues like wastefulness and poverty. It’s also a personal reflection, as Varda considers her own aging and her work as a filmmaker.

‘Happiness’ (1965)

Agnès Varda’s film is a beautiful and thought-provoking French New Wave story about a carpenter who has an affair. He convinces himself he can have both the affair and a happy family, believing that happiness isn’t limited – it can grow without taking away from what you already have. The film is visually striking, using vibrant colors to create an impressionistic feel, but it also explores uncomfortable truths about relationships and societal expectations. Ultimately, it challenges traditional ideas about marriage and questions whether our definitions of happiness are truly meaningful.

‘Jeanne Dielman, 23, quai du Commerce, 1080 Bruxelles’ (1975)

Chantal Akerman’s ‘Jeanne Dielman’ is a groundbreaking feminist film that follows a widowed mother over three days in Brussels. The movie uses long, unbroken shots to emphasize the monotony of her daily routine – cooking, cleaning, and looking after her child. These ordinary tasks are filmed with the same seriousness as a dramatic event that happens later in the story. In 2022, critics for Sight & Sound magazine voted it the greatest film ever made.

‘American Psycho’ (2000)

Directed by Mary Harron, this film is a darkly comedic horror movie adapted from Bret Easton Ellis’ novel. It follows Patrick Bateman, played by Christian Bale, a wealthy Wall Street banker who leads a secret life as a serial killer. Set in the 1980s, the film explores Bateman’s obsession with wealth, appearances, and fitting in, using shocking violence and biting humor to criticize the emptiness of corporate life and harmful ideas about masculinity. Though initially divisive, the film has gained a devoted following and is now celebrated for Harron’s clever direction.

‘Love and Anarchy’ (1973)

This Italian film, directed by Lina Wertmüller and set in the 1930s, tells the story of a farmer who travels to Rome with the goal of killing Benito Mussolini. While planning the assassination, he finds himself staying in a brothel and unexpectedly falls in love with one of the women who works there. The film explores the tension between finding personal happiness and fulfilling a political obligation under a fascist government. It’s known for its powerful acting and dramatic, almost theatrical, presentation, and it won an award for Best Actor at the Cannes Film Festival.

‘Vagabond’ (1985)

Agnès Varda’s powerful and moving film tells the story of Mona, a young woman living on the margins of society. The film opens with the discovery of Mona’s body and then pieces together her life through flashbacks and interviews. Mona is depicted as fiercely independent, rejecting both conventional norms and offers of assistance. This critically acclaimed film won the Golden Lion at the Venice Film Festival and is considered a highlight of Varda’s career.

‘Aftersun’ (2022)

Charlotte Wells’ debut film is a touching story about a woman looking back on a childhood vacation with her father. Through a blend of home video-style footage and vivid memories, the film delicately explores their relationship and the father’s quiet battle with depression. It’s praised for its understated approach and how it builds powerful emotions through small moments and a strong sense of atmosphere. Paul Mescal earned an Academy Award nomination for his portrayal of the young father.

‘Seven Beauties’ (1975)

As a film lover, I find Lina Wertmüller’s work incredibly powerful, and this movie is a prime example. It’s a tough, darkly funny epic set in Fascist Italy, following a small-time crook who ends up in a concentration camp after deserting. To stay alive, he’s forced into this unbelievably degrading situation – he has to essentially seduce the camp’s ruthless female commander. It’s a really challenging film that makes you think about what people will do to survive, what honor even means in a situation like that, and how war and oppressive regimes strip away our humanity. And it’s historically significant too – Wertmüller was the first woman ever nominated for a Best Director Oscar because of it!

‘Lost in Translation’ (2003)

Sofia Coppola’s film is a beautifully moody drama about two Americans finding connection in Tokyo. Bill Murray stars as a fading movie star filming an ad, and Scarlett Johansson plays a young woman traveling with her photographer husband. The movie expertly conveys feelings of loneliness and being lost in a new culture through its slow rhythm and striking visuals. It was a critical and commercial hit, and won an Oscar for its original screenplay.

‘Anatomy of a Fall’ (2023)

Anatomy of a Fall, a French courtroom drama directed by Justine Triet, centers on Sandra Hüller’s character, a writer accused of her husband’s death after he falls from their mountain home. The film unfolds during her trial, revealing a troubled marriage and the uncertain details surrounding the incident. It earned the prestigious Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival, making Triet one of only three female directors to ever win the award. Critics have lauded the film for its thoughtful and intricate look at truth and how we see things.

‘Faces Places’ (2017)

This delightful documentary was a collaboration between the legendary filmmaker Agnès Varda and street artist JR. Together, they journeyed across the French countryside in a mobile photo studio, creating giant portraits of the people they encountered and displaying them on local buildings. The film beautifully captures the power of art, the importance of community, and the simple beauty of everyday life. It’s also a touching reflection on Varda’s career and her experiences with fading eyesight as she approached the end of her life.

‘Past Lives’ (2023)

Celine Song’s film is a moving romantic drama about two friends who grew up in South Korea and find each other again in New York City years later. The story centers around ‘In-Yun’, a Korean idea that people are connected through past lives and destiny. Rather than being overly dramatic, the film portrays a realistic and poignant story through subtle dialogue and the lingering feeling of what might have been. Critics have overwhelmingly praised the film’s writing, direction, and the actors’ performances.

‘Little Women’ (2019)

As a huge film fan, I was completely captivated by Greta Gerwig’s take on Little Women. She not only adapted Louisa May Alcott’s beloved novel but really reimagined it. What I loved most was how she played with time, jumping between the sisters’ childhood and their adult lives – it beautifully highlighted how they evolved as people and artists. The movie really digs into what it meant for women to be financially independent and pursue creative passions back in the 19th century. It’s no surprise it garnered six Academy Award nominations; Gerwig truly brought a fresh, modern energy to a story we all think we know.

‘Shrek’ (2001)

‘Shrek,’ co-directed by Vicky Jenson, is a hugely popular animated film that playfully pokes fun at classic fairy tales. It was a key film in establishing DreamWorks Animation as a leading studio. The story centers on Shrek, an ogre, who goes on a journey to rescue a princess and get his swamp back from a bunch of fairytale characters who’ve been forced out of their homes. The movie is well-known for its use of popular culture, famous voice actors, and for turning traditional fairytale endings on their head. ‘Shrek’ made history by winning the very first Academy Award for Best Animated Feature.

‘Cléo from 5 to 7’ (1962)

Cléo from 5 to 7, directed by Agnès Varda, is a key film of the French New Wave. It portrays two hours in the life of a singer anxiously waiting for medical test results. The film unfolds in almost real-time, showing Cléo as she walks through Paris and confronts questions about her life and what it means to be a woman. It’s notable for how it shifts from presenting Cléo as someone simply admired for her looks to a thoughtful person observing the world around her, and is praised for its fresh style and feminist themes.

‘CODA’ (2021)

CODA is a touching drama directed by Sian Heder, telling the story of Ruby, a hearing young woman who grows up in a deaf family and finds her love for singing. CODA stands for “Child of Deaf Adults,” and the film notably stars deaf actors like Troy Kotsur and Marlee Matlin in key roles. Ruby faces a difficult choice: help her family with their struggling fishing business or pursue her dream of going to music college. The film was a major success, winning three Oscars, including Best Picture and Best Adapted Screenplay.

‘Persepolis’ (2007)

As a critic, I found “Persepolis” to be a truly powerful film. It’s Marjane Satrapi’s own story, adapted from her graphic novel, and it follows her childhood in Iran during the revolution and the Iran-Iraq War. What struck me most was the film’s visual style – a striking black and white that really emphasizes the emotional impact of her experiences. It’s a deeply personal story, but also a vital piece of political history, and it rightfully earned recognition, including an Academy Award nomination and a win at Cannes.

‘Portrait of a Lady on Fire’ (2019)

Written and directed by Céline Sciamma, this French film is a historical romance centered around a painter tasked with creating a wedding portrait. Set on a remote island in Brittany, the story follows the growing emotional and physical connection between the painter and her young subject as they get to know each other. The film is praised for its unique perspective, focusing on the inner lives and desires of women without relying on male characters. It received the Queer Palm award at the Cannes Film Festival and is considered a groundbreaking work in queer film.

’13th’ (2016)

Ava DuVernay’s documentary powerfully examines the history of the U.S. prison system and its connection to racial injustice. The film, titled after the Thirteenth Amendment – which ended slavery except as punishment for crimes – argues that today’s high rates of incarceration among Black Americans are a continuation of slavery in a different form. Featuring interviews with experts and activists, the film received critical acclaim, including an Academy Award nomination and multiple Emmy Awards.

‘A Silent Voice: The Movie’ (2016)

This highly-regarded Japanese animated film, directed by Naoko Yamada, tells the story of a high school student trying to make amends for bullying a deaf classmate when they were both younger. The movie thoughtfully examines difficult subjects like social awkwardness, the possibility of forgiveness, and the challenges of connecting with others. It’s celebrated for its beautiful visuals and its sensitive portrayal of serious issues like suicide and disability. The film received widespread critical acclaim both in Japan and internationally, and is considered one of the best anime movies of the 2010s.

‘Capernaum’ (2018)

Nadine Labaki’s powerful Lebanese film tells the heartbreaking story of Zain, a 12-year-old boy growing up in Beirut’s slums, who takes his parents to court for simply having brought him into the world. The film is especially moving because it features a cast of non-actors, many of whom have experienced similar hardships to their characters, including the young star, Zain Al Rafeea. It offers a stark and honest portrayal of child poverty, parental neglect, and the difficulties faced by refugees without proper identification. The film received the Jury Prize at the Cannes Film Festival and was also nominated for an Academy Award.

‘The Matrix’ (1999)

As a huge film fan, I still remember being completely blown away by The Matrix when it came out. The Wachowskis really changed the game with this one – it wasn’t just a sci-fi movie, it redefined action films and visual effects. The story follows Neo, a hacker who learns the world isn’t what it seems – it’s actually a computer simulation used by machines to power themselves. They introduced this incredible effect called ‘bullet time,’ and the whole film was packed with cool cyberpunk visuals, martial arts fights, and surprisingly deep philosophical ideas. It became a worldwide sensation and, honestly, it’s still one of the most important and influential films in the science fiction genre.

Let us know in the comments which of these amazing films directed by women you like best!

2026-02-06 03:22