Great Britain’s Queen Elizabeth II was at one point a massive world figure, ruler, and leader of over five nations. Now at the age of 90, the British monarchy that once controlled territories across the world has been reduced to a handful of countries that consider themselves part of this kingdom. Despite not having much ruling power, the Queen continues to be a popular role model and influencer of her people for being a smart, clear, and logical woman who has helped millions of people overcome some of the toughest moments in recent history. The Queen represents her country with the style and integrity it’s known for, as well as for her intellectual demeanor.
The Queen has commented on some occasions that she enjoys reading Agatha Christie and listening to the music of George Formby, as well as watching episodes of Downton Abbey and Doctor Who. These pop culture elements are part of the great intellectual heritage that belongs to the United Kingdom’s longest reigning monarch.
The following suggestions are a couple of film titles for women who wish to broaden their knowledge and horizons in order to become a smart woman of power and respect.
Blue Jasmine (2013) – Woody Allen
This film is a great portrayal of the female psyche when emotional intelligence does not match its intellectual counterpart. Woody Allen presents Jasmine, a shallow woman who is solely interested in achieving a good social status regardless of the cost this might have. The film’s script is full of lessons on empathy and understanding of others, which can guide someone who wishes to avoid living in permanent unhappiness.
Ghost World (2001) – Terry Zwigoff
This option for a younger audience tells the story of two curious teenagers searching for their paths in life. Dealing with the world and it’s set rules can get complicated at that age. This movie was adapted from a graphic novel that depicts in a witty way several professional and personal situations. By growing close to an older person, the young protagonist is able to see a different perspective of adulthood beyond her own issues.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4WmCBRkWJ54
The Hours (2002) – Stephen Daldry
Based on the novel by Michael Cunningham, this film explores female mentality and intellect throughout three different generations of women, all connected through Virginia Woolf’s Mrs. Dalloway. The leading characters of the film are immersed in literature, unhappy marriages, and mental illness, such as depression. This is a profound essay on the effects of art in the world and the mind.
The Punk Singer (2013) – Sini Anderson
A documentary that, along with What Happened Miss Simone?, captures the essence of the importance of women in music. The title is a reference to Kathleen Hanna, a musician, artist, feminist activist, and iconic figure of the Riot Grrl movement. Her impact and longevity in a male-dominated industry proves how far a legacy can go with the right intelligence, wit, and perseverance, even when battling health situations.
Mad Max: Fury Road (2015) – George Miller
Despite its director and title character being male, the true protagonist of this movie is femininity. The powerful role of Furiosa is complex on so many levels, and her connection to the other female victims is a metaphor on its own. It should also be said the film’s editor received a special mention for creating a masterpiece from thousands of hours of film. Margaret Sixel and the director have stated that the film is a love letter to authentic action flicks and feminism.
Run Lola Run (1998) – Tom Tykwer
This story is about understanding that, when we make choices, we need to accept the consequences these may bring throughout our life and that of others. This German movie focuses on a young woman who needs 100 thousand marks to save her boyfriend’s life. Each possibility has different results that reveal hidden interests and drastic changes in the way she views herself and the choices she must make.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3ea0mG4ahRk
My Life to Live (1962) – Jean-Luc Godard
One of Godard’s most acclaimed dramas, this film features a young woman who leaves her husband and child to pursue an acting career. But through several difficulties, she ends up having to work as a prostitute. Aside from the chapter-like narrative that invites the viewer to fill in the blanks, it has an intellectual aspect that pushes us to try to see things through the protagonist’s point of view.
A Woman Is a Woman (1961) – Jean-Luc Godard
Another close look at womanhood by the same director, this satire deals with female stereotypes that are taken to its limits. This film has earned a cult-like following, but its play on gender roles, as well as its analysis of a superficial French society and its perception of women, have made it a masterpiece.
Translated by María Suárez
