Hey guys, this Woman’s Day, let’s do something different. We’re putting together a list of ten movies that every man should watch to understand what women go through. These films aren’t just about entertainment; they’re about getting a real insight into the struggles women face every day.
From heart-wrenching dramas to eye-opening documentaries, these movies will make you laugh, cry, and most importantly, think. They’ll show you the challenges women deal with, the battles they fight, and the victories they achieve. So grab some snacks, get comfy, and let’s dive into these films that’ll give you a whole new perspective this Woman’s Day. Let’s understand and appreciate the women in our lives a little better, one movie at a time.
1. Thappad
‘Thappad’ portrays a woman’s battle for her self-respect and dignity. The film delves into the pressing issue of domestic abuse and male entitlement. It serves as a bold critique of a society that nurtures entitled men, fostering beliefs of superiority over women. ‘Thappad’ attempts to depict how these entitled men often relegate their wives and mothers to second-class citizenship. It’s a poignant story that underscores the message that domestic abuse is never acceptable, even if it’s just a single slap!”
2. Lipstick Under My Burkha
Lipstick Under My Burkha portrays the stories of four women rebelling against toxic masculinity and a patriarchal society. Through four compelling narratives, Alankrita Shrivastava showcases the heart-wrenching struggles faced by Indian women in our society. Although these stories may appear distinct at first glance, they share striking similarities, ultimately depicting the common theme of four women rebelling against patriarchy.
3. Chhapaak
Deepika Padukone’s ‘Chhapaak’ is a powerful film that conveys a strong message about the importance of teaching boys to accept ‘NO’. Inspired by the real story, the movie focuses on Malti, who becomes a victim of an acid attack after rejecting a boy’s advances. It revolves around her journey through the legal process while striving to heal both physically and mentally. This poignant film beautifully illustrates the strength of women as they fight against the system to advocate for the ban on the sale of acid.
4. Parched
Director Leena Yadav focuses on the patriarchal society prevalent in rural India to narrate the story of four women in a small village in Rajasthan. The movie addresses critical issues such as marital rape, child marriage, dowry, and domestic abuse. It serves as a powerful reflection of a woman’s immense courage to stand up against patriarchy and assert herself.
5. Pink
Another masterpiece by Shoojit Sircar hit the screens in 2016. ‘Pink’ initiated the much-needed discussion on consent. The famous dialogue – ‘No means no’ became a part of mainstream discourse. Over the last couple of years, we have encountered how it is important to understand the value of consent. During the #MeToo era, consent became a burning topic of discussion. This extraordinary movie will make men realize the importance of consent, and that the only thing to do when a woman says no, is to back off!
6. Dhak Dhak
Based on a real story, ‘Dhak Dhak’ narrates the tale of four women who come to realize that freedom must be claimed, not granted. Embarking on the trip of a lifetime, these women set out on motorbikes from New Delhi to Ladakh, India, reaching the highest mountain pass in the world. The transformative nature of this road trip, evolving into a fulfilling journey of self-discovery, distinguishes this movie.
7. Queen
Kangana Ranaut’s ‘Queen’ presents a heartwarming and empowering story of a woman’s self-discovery. The film follows Rani’s transformative journey as she embarks on a solo honeymoon trip after her wedding is called off. Throughout her travels, she discovers newfound independence and inner strength.
8. English Vinglish
“English Vinglish” beautifully captures the struggle of a housewife’s self-worth, presenting a heartwarming tale of women’s resilience. The film follows Shashi, a dedicated homemaker, as she embarks on a transformative journey to overcome her insecurities by learning English during a trip to New York. Through this poignant narrative, the movie artfully portrays Shashi’s pursuit of self-empowerment and her quest to earn the respect she rightfully deserves.
10. Damini
Even though Damini came out a long time ago, it’s still important for talking about social injustice and crimes against women in society. ‘Damini,’ a thought-provoking narrative highlighting societal injustices, tells the story of a woman’s fight for justice after witnessing a heinous crime. Addressing social issues, the film focuses on the courage and determination of its protagonist in seeking truth and upholding morality.
These flicks are like a smack in the face with reality—showing just how far we are from true equality for women. Hopefully, guys tuning into these films will finally get a glimpse into the everyday struggles faced by women. So, spill it! Which movie hit you right in the feels and left a lasting mark?