EMPOWERING FILMS TO LIFT YOU UP IN LOCKDOWN
VOCAL GIRLS’ ultimate list of pick me up films to get you through lockdown 3.0
It’s safe to say Lockdown 3.0 has certainly been a struggle. Whilst most of us are wrestling with boredom, or working from home, the world and its turbulent affairs have not halted. In response to the exhausting stream of daily news updates, many of us have taken to our tellies to provide comfort. So much so in fact, that now a year into this madness, you’ve probably completed Netflix and are at a loss for where to turn for some inspiration. But fear not, we’ve curated a list of our favourite empowering films to lift you up through lockdown 3855037. These gems are guaranteed to make you feel so lifted, you might even throw on a clean pair of PJs...You’re welcome.
On the Basis of Sex (2018)
A story based on the early cases and life of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, ‘On the Basis of Sex’ is inspiring and direct in tackling the patriarchal society in the 50s. Ginsberg was the second ever woman to serve on the Supreme Court in America and was hugely involved in the making of the film, alongside director Mimi Leder. The tale is uplifting proof that positive change is always possible, touching on patriarchal laws, the beginning of the sexual revolution, working class backgrounds and the timely unconventional relationship of Ginsburg and her husband.
Available to watch on Amazon Prime.
Little Women (2019)
A literary classic presented beautifully by director Greta Gerwig, this film follows the fictional lives of four sisters who are determined to achieve their dreams, regardless of the world’s opinion. Heart-wrenching, uplifting and romantic, ‘Little Women’ provides the perfect dose of every emotion possible and truly leaves you appreciative of all the women in your life. I think it’s fair to say we would all love to be like Jo March when we grow up too!
Available on Sky Cinema, or for purchase on Amazon.
The Forty Year Old Version (2020)
This is the film-making debut of director and actress Rhada Blank, and what an incredible debut it is. In the film, Blank hilariously but intensely addresses the middle-aged womanhood of black playwright, Rhada, in New York. Lacking profound success due to underlying discrimation within the mainstream NY theatre scene, it is only when Rhada begins rapping and taking influence from Hip Hop that she begins finding her own voice. Showing the minute details of New York suburbs, Blank does an incredible job of representing the underrepresented, motivating all of us to believe in ourselves and chase new paths.
Available now on Netflix UK.
Made in Dagenham (2010)
‘Made In Dagenham’ is a biographical drama based on the 1968 strike of female employees of the Ford Dagenham car plant. It is not only touching, but comical and hugely uplifting in its dramatization of Rita O’Grady’s protest in response to her discovery of the unequal pay for women working on the Ford premises. Exposing the historical sexist truth of Britain’s work landscape, this film is enough to get any of us off the sofa in hopes of continuing the work of the inspiring women who paved pathways for us today.
Available for purchase on Amazon.
Erin Brockovich (2000)
Telling the tale of unemployed single-mother Erin Brockovich who ends up leading one of the largest lawsuits in American history, this critically-acclaimed film is an indisputable classic. It also stars the feminist Hollywood icon that is Julia Roberts. You will love her in real life, and you will adore her as Erin which explores the struggle but defiance of mother and womanhood.
Watch now on Netflix UK.
Begin Again (2013)
After watching ‘Begin Again’ for the first time in 2013, I was hooked by its light feel-good soundtrack and motivated more than ever with my personal musical endeavors. Similar to ‘The Forty Year Old Version’, this story is rooted in undertones of the music scene of New York. It tells the story of Gretta, played by Keira Knightly, who against all the odds of the harsh commercial industry, retains her authenticity, following her own journey to self discovery through an alternative musical debut.
Available on Amazon Prime now.
Moana (2016)
To round things up, we’ve got the animated Disney film ‘Moana’. With its stunning soundtrack and vibrant storyline, this is the perfect sanguine movie for lockdown. Educating its viewers on Ancient Polynesian culture, the tale follows Moana who, when called on by the ocean, must return goddess Te Fitti’s heart after Demigod Maui curses her island. It may be a Disney animation, but this film is empowering, adventurous and vivacious to everyone who watches it.
Available on Disney+ or for purchase on Amazon Prime Video.
Most importantly, remember that It’s okay to not feel like your best self at the moment. Be kind to yourself in these weird times! We’re hopeful that these films will leave you feeling a little more sparkly and empowered; they’re proof that amazing things can come from being stuck in difficult scenarios which test your limits. You’ve got this!
