International Women’s Day!
Happy International Women’s Day!
As an all-female company, today is incredibly important to us, especially considering the troubles faced by women within the filming industry. Today we are reflecting on the progress made, challenges faced, and the wonderful achievements of women in film across the world. This annual event is an important reminder of the ongoing pursuit of gender equality within the industry, paving the way for future generations.
International Women’s Day is not only a celebration, but an opportunity to amplify the voices of women, and campaign for a more inclusive industry.
Whilst there are an uncountable number of influential women in the film industry (both past and present), below we have highlighted a small percentage of modern day professionals who have achieved success in their fields, and contributed to advocating for greater diversity and opportunity for women in film;
Regina King
An incredibly successful actress and director, King is an empowering advocate for black representation in Hollywood, and has paved the way for young talent to follow in her footsteps. Her directorial debut ‘One Night in Miami…’ tells the stories of black people during the Civil Rights movement, and received an Oscar nomination for its success, as well as a selection by Venice Film Festival, making her the first black female director to feature in the festival, a monumental achievement.
PHOTO – VANITY FAIR
Ari Wegner
Australian Cinematographer Ari Wegner is best known for her work on Lady Macbeth, The Wonder, and The Power of The Dog. She was the first woman to win a BSC Award for Best Cinematography in a Theatrical Feature Film for The Power of The Dog, working alongside Jane Campion in a powerful female partnership.
PHOTO – THE TALKS
Viola DavisArguably the most influential actress of our time, Davis’ acceptance speech for her Outstanding Lead Actress Emmy Award remains powerful nearly a decade later, “The only thing that separates women of colour from anyone else is opportunity”. Triumphing in her career despite a background of abuse and poverty, she is an inspiration for young black women to demand more space in the industry.
PHOTO – VANITY FAIR
Chloé Zhao
Chloé Zhao won an Academy Award for her direction of ‘Nomadland’, making her the first women of colour and of Asian descent to win the featured prize. She also became the second female director to win an Oscar. Frances McDormand produced the film and recruited Zhao as director, and their special connection contributes to the raw emotion of the film.
PHOTO – ELLE
Greta Gerwig
We can’t list successful women in film without mentioning Greta Gerwig. A jack of many trades, she is now known by most for her incredible directing of hit ‘Barbie’, but she is also an acclaimed screenwriter. Gerwig wrote the screenplays for both her solo directorial debuts Ladybird and Little Women, receiving nominations for Best Original Screenplay and Best Adapted Screenplay – what can’t she do!
PHOTO – MOVIEWEB
Inclusive Connections
Let’s continue working hard this year to support and empower women in film, and promote diversity within the industry. Below, please find resources and links that we recommend for those looking to broaden their knowledge, make connections or kick start their film career!
Girls on Film
The world’s leading podcast on women in film, hosted by critic and broadcaster Anna Smith.
WFTV Leadership Programme
Empowering women to thrive in senior leadership positions by providing training and coaching in leadership skills, tools and techniques and mindset.
https://www.wftv.org.uk/fearless-leadership-programme
Brighton Female Filmmakers
For our Sussex Locals, a brilliant Facebook Group for women connecting to work on their filmmaking projects.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/171190114301580
WIF Black Member Forum
Supporting Black creatives in the WIF community.
https://womeninfilm.org/programs/bmf/
Women Make Movies
Supporting women filmmakers and distributing artistically significant films to audiences with an intentional focus on uplifting the voices of underrepresented women and enriching society.
Alliance of Women Directors
A non-profit organisation dedicated to increasing the number of women and gender non-binary directors working in the entertainment industry.
The Writer’s Lab
Elevating Female Screenwriters Over 40, applications open now!
Chicken and Egg Pictures
Providing funding, mentorship and industry access to a global community of women and gender-expansive filmmakers.
Women and Hollywood
Women and Hollywood educates, advocates, and agitates for gender diversity and inclusion in Hollywood and the global film industry.
Cherry Picks
Movie and TV recommendations, reads, and reviews exclusively from female and non-binary critics.
https://www.thecherrypicks.com/
These resources will help so many women and non-binary individuals looking to grow their careers in the film industry – share it with them on social media and tag us @sussexfilmoffice!