#Middlebury #Movie #Video #DVD #Women’sHistoryMonth
March is Women’s History Month, kicked off in part by International Women’s Day on March 8. It’s billed as “a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women,” and by golly, there’s much to celebrate – strong female characters, biopics of groundbreaking women, inspirational stories from every corner of the globe. Here are five wonderful stories of women to start you off:
“Whale Rider” – Paikea Apirana (“Pai”) was born into a New Zealand tribe that awards its leadership to the first-born male. Pai is first-born and in the line of succession, and feels that being chief is a destiny and right, but she is a 12-year-old girl. However, through word and deed, she proves her feelings right again and again, despite a grandfather who rebuffs her attempts to learn the traditional fighting style (which she learns anyway and masters) and who does not include her in ritual initiations (finding a whale tooth).
“Queen of Katwe” – The true story of Ugandan chess phenomenon Phiona Mutesi (Madina Nalwanga), born in Katwe, a slum on the outskirts of Kampala. Under the tutelage of missionary Robert Katende (David Oyelowo), she learns chess, perseverance and the power of confidence. Phiona works her way through local and international contests, setting her sights on the success necessary to lift her loving family out of poverty.
“On the Basis of Sex” (PG-13) – A brilliant mind coupled with an incredibly dedicated work ethic, Associate Justice Ruth Bader Ginsberg (Felicity Jones), the Notorious RBG, finished law school with honors under adverse circumstances, but couldn’t find a job working as a lawyer due solely to her being a woman. When her lawyer husband comes across an obscure but revolutionary tax-law case, Ruth sees it for the opportunity it is. You can’t please all of the people when you dramatize the life of a cherished legend, but I liked this story’s inspirational focus.
Cynthia Erivo in “Harriet” (Focus Features photo)
“Harriet” (PG-13) – From self-liberation to American human-rights icon, Harriet Tubman (Cynthia Erivo) takes center stage in a stirring and inspirational biopic. When her husband, a freeman, attempts to secure her release, the farm’s owner refuses. Tubman is labeled a troublemaker and sent to be sold, but escapes, making the arduous trek to Pennsylvania and winning her freedom. She then returns for her family again and again, bringing home many slaves in the process.
“A League of Their Own” – A lively cast of characters led by Geena Davis, Lori Petty, Madonna and Rosie O’Donnell (oh, and Tom Hanks) breathes life into the story of the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League, a wartime effort to keep sports alive while the boys were off fighting. Although treated as a joke by some fans and even male managers, the players become real pioneers in women’s sport being seen as watchable in its own right. Plus, it’s funny!
© 2021 King Features Synd., Inc.
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