Welcome to yet another edition of Spoiler Alert.
On this Women’s Day, I bring you ten women-centric films that have stayed with me, that, according to me, capture the spirit of feminism in thoughtful and nuanced ways. Feminism is not merely about loud declarations or hostility toward men, it perhaps lies in quiet resilience, self-respect, and the freedom to choose one’s own path.
The films in this list portray women who are ordinary, imperfect, sometimes conflicted, yet deeply human, women from everyday lives, who grow, question, and often find solidarity in sisterhood.
- Laapataa Ladies
Laapataa Ladies presents feminism through silent resistance rather than loud dialogues. The film shows how two ordinary women question the roles imposed on them by tradition and patriarchy. Ably supported by other women characters like the mothers-in-law and the tea stall owner, the ladies gradually discover their individuality, dignity, and right to make choices about their lives. Through humour and simple village situations, the story highlights issues like identity, education, and the expectation that women must remain obedient and invisible.
- Aattam (Malayalam)
Aattam presents feminism through a different lens, portraying the fact that men, however modern or emancipated they might pretend to be, expect character certificates from women. When a woman raises an allegation against a male colleague, the theatre group’s reactions reveal how patriarchy often protects male privilege while questioning the credibility of the woman. The film highlights the subtle double standards of society. Through intense dialogue and conflicts, it emphasises the courage required for a woman to assert her voice and demand dignity in a male-dominated environment.
- Ullazhukku (Malayalam)
Ullozhukku offers a powerful feminist perspective by exploring the inner lives and suppressed emotions of two women, the mother of a young cancer patient and her daughter-in-law. The film portrays how expectations around marriage, motherhood, and morality often silence women’s desires and choices. Through the strained relationship between the two central female characters, it reveals empathy, solidarity, and the struggle for personal space. Not loud, but a silent and strong narrative shows feminism as an internal awakening, where women stand up for each other to confront guilt, grief, and social judgment.
- Lipstick Under My Burkha
A really bold take on feminism, portraying 4 real women who fall in love, openly express their desires, dare to walk out of marriage, and are okay with casual flings. The movie doesn’t justify the women, but they are, as they are. And they need no judgment whatsoever. Exploring age groups from a young college student to a middle aged matriarch, the movie beautifully captures the needs and struggles of ordinary women.
- Sharmajee Ki Beti
Sharmajee Ki Beti is a gentle and thoughtful coming-of-age story that explores the lives of three women bent under the weight of expectations and self-doubt. The film captures the everyday struggles of adolescence like body image, academic pressure, sexual identity, and the need for acceptance. Through relatable characters and subtle humour, it shows how girls gradually learn to value themselves beyond society’s judgments. It also talks of young girls in sports, infidelity and working women vows, without being dramatic or over the top. The narrative focuses on emotional growth and small everyday victories.
- Maja Ma
Maja Ma offers many a feminist perspectives by centring on a middle-aged homemaker whose suppressed sexual identity disrupts her family’s traditional expectations, so much so, that her husband and son turn against her because they can’t accept the shame. Her daughter, a team of social workers, and her best friend stand in full support though. The film questions patriarchal norms that demand women sacrifice personal truth for social respectability. Through it’s strong female characters, conversations between a mother and a daughter, it explores themes of acceptance, and the right to live. Maja Ma argues that a woman’s dignity lies in her freedom to define her own identity.
- English Vinglish
A gentle story of a homemaker who is often mocked by her husband and daughter for her faulty English. Though she turns her culinary talent into a business, her husband remarks that ‘She Is Born Only To Make Laddus’. She enrols in an English class and gradually gains confidence and independence. The film subtly critiques how women’s domestic labour is undervalued while celebrating dignity, self-respect, and personal growth.
- The Great Indian Kitchen (Malayalam)
The Great Indian Kitchen is a less dialogue, more expressive take on patriarchy within the domestic space. Through the repetitive routines of cooking, cleaning, and serving, the film reveals the invisible labour expected from homemakers in traditional households. The protagonist’s gradual realisation of this inequality forms the emotional core of the film. The last scene, in which she has a meltdown and abandons the family midway, is compelling to watch. A gentle yet powerful movie that questions deeply ingrained social norms.
- Tumhari Sulu
Tumhari Sulu is a light and warm story, portraying feminism through the journey of an ordinary housewife discovering her own voice. When Sulu becomes a late-night radio jockey, she steps beyond the traditional expectations placed on her as a wife and mother. The film highlights how women’s ambitions are often trivialised, yet it celebrates confidence, self-belief, and individuality. It’s feminism lies in Sulu’s courage to do something out of the box, the idea that a woman can pursue her dreams while negotiating family responsibilities
10)|Four More Shots Please
Yes, they are flawed. And unapologetic. Why shouldn’t they be? They are talented, independent women who refuse to bow down to societal norms. The series highlights themes of friendship, homosexuality, and emotional vulnerability. It portrays glamorous, loud women and brings conversations about female desire, identity, and freedom into the mainstream. The feminist appeal lies in the fact that women support each other, come what may.
Here’s my list of 10 must-watch feminist films and series that explore women’s fear, courage, identity, and quiet acts of resistance.
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These narratives remind us that feminism is often found in everyday courage, choices, and self-discovery.
I would love to hear your recommendations too – which feminist films or series stayed with you?
By Preethi Warrier
Preethi Warrier has completed her Masters in Electronics Engineering and is an Assistant Professor. She is one among the winners of the TOI Write India Campaign Season-1, for the famous author Anita Nair. She can be contacted at : warrier.preethi@yahoo.com
