10 Movies Directed by Women to Watch for International Women’s Day

International Women’s Day is the perfect moment to celebrate the achievements of women across different fields, including the entertainment industry. One enjoyable way to mark the occasion is by watching movies directed by women, which highlight the creativity, perspective, and storytelling power that female filmmakers bring to cinema.

Over the years, women directors have created films that resonate with audiences through humor, emotion, adventure, and powerful messages. While the film industry has long been dominated by male directors, women have continued to break barriers and prove that their voices are equally important behind the camera.

Their work has helped expand the kinds of stories told on screen and introduced audiences to characters and themes that feel fresh and meaningful. Streaming platforms now make it easier to access many of these productions. From animated adventures to romantic comedies and teen classics, there are plenty of titles that showcase the impact of female directors.

Watching movies directed by women during International Women’s Day is both entertaining and a simple way to appreciate the contributions women have made to modern filmmaking.

Below are ten films directed by women that deserve a spot on your watchlist today.

Movies Directed by Women to Watch Today

1. Turning Red (2022)

Pixar’s animated hit Turning Red, directed by Domee Shi, tells the story of Mei Lee, a confident thirteen-year-old trying to balance school, friendships, and family expectations. Her life becomes complicated when she discovers that strong emotions trigger a surprising transformation into a giant red panda.

The film uses humor and vibrant animation to discuss growing up, cultural identity, and the complicated relationship between parents and teenagers. Domee Shi brings warmth and authenticity to the story, making it both relatable and memorable.

2. The Parent Trap (1998)

Directed by Nancy Meyers, The Parent Trap remains a favorite family movie decades after its release. The story begins at a summer camp where Annie and Hallie meet and quickly become rivals. However, they soon realize they are identical twins who were separated at birth after their parents divorced.

The girls come up with a clever plan to switch places and reunite their parents. Filled with playful schemes, emotional moments, and heartfelt family themes, the film continues to charm viewers of all ages.

3. Aquamarine (2006)

Aquamarine, directed by Elizabeth Allen, blends fantasy with friendship in a colorful summer adventure. Best friends Hailey and Claire are trying to make the most of their final days together before Hailey moves away.

Their lives take a surprising turn when they meet Aquamarine, a mermaid who appears after a storm. As the girls help her navigate life on land, they discover lessons about loyalty, love, and growing up.

The film captures the innocence and excitement of teenage friendship while adding a touch of magic and humor. Set against sunny beach scenes, Aquamarine highlights the importance of standing by friends during life changes. As the story unfolds, the girls learn that true friendship can help them face fears, embrace new beginnings, and hold on to the memories that matter most.

4. 27 Dresses (2008)

Anne Fletcher’s romantic comedy 27 Dresses centers on Jane, a woman who has spent years helping friends with their weddings. Known for always being the bridesmaid, Jane struggles with the fact that her own romantic life seems stuck.

Her situation becomes even more complicated when the man she secretly admires falls in love with her younger sister. Meanwhile, a journalist writing about wedding culture begins to take an interest in Jane’s unusual story.

The film mixes humor with emotional reflection, highlighting themes of self-worth and personal happiness.

5. Brave (2012)

Brave is an animated adventure that focuses on Princess Merida, a strong and independent young woman determined to shape her own destiny. Directed by Brenda Chapman and Mark Andrews, the film challenges traditional fairy tale expectations.

Merida refuses to follow the path chosen for her and seeks control over her future. However, her actions accidentally unleash a dangerous curse that threatens her kingdom. She must find the courage to repair the damage and rebuild her relationship with her mother.

The film celebrates bravery, individuality, and family bonds.

6. Cow Belles (2006)

Directed by Francine McDougall, Cow Belles tells the story of sisters Taylor and Courtney Callum, who grow up enjoying the luxuries provided by their family’s successful dairy business.

When their father leaves them in charge during the summer, the sisters suddenly have to experience what real work looks like. Their challenges grow even more serious when someone steals money from the company’s bank account.

Through the experience, the sisters begin to mature and learn the value of responsibility, teamwork, and honesty.

7. Confessions of a Teenage Drama Queen (2004)

Sara Sugarman directs this lively teen comedy about Lola, a girl who thrives on the excitement of life in New York City. Her world changes when her family relocates to a quiet suburb in New Jersey.

Used to big city energy, Lola finds it difficult to adjust to her new school and surroundings. Determined to remain confident and ambitious, she navigates new friendships, school rivalries, and her dream of attending a concert by her favorite rock band.

The film captures the dramatic emotions and determination often seen during teenage years.

8. Eternals (2021)

Chloé Zhao directs Marvel’s Eternals, a superhero film that introduces a group of powerful beings who have quietly protected humanity for thousands of years.

The story follows these immortal heroes as they reunite to face a powerful threat that could endanger Earth. Each member of the group has a unique ability and perspective shaped by centuries of life among humans.

Zhao’s approach to the film adds a thoughtful tone to the superhero genre while exploring themes of duty, loyalty, and identity, responsibility, belonging, purpose, sacrifice, humanity, destiny, and moral choices.

9. The Princess Diaries (2001)

Directed by Garry Marshall but strongly shaped by female-centered storytelling from author Meg Cabot’s work, The Princess Diaries deserves mention for its lasting cultural influence. The story follows Mia Thermopolis, an ordinary teenager who learns she is the heir to a European kingdom.

With the help of her grandmother, Mia must learn royal etiquette while deciding whether she truly wants the responsibilities of royalty. The film celebrates confidence, personal growth, and discovering one’s identity.

10. A Wrinkle in Time (2018)

Directed by Ava DuVernay, A Wrinkle in Time is a visually imaginative adventure that follows a young girl named Meg as she travels through space and time in search of her missing father.

Alongside her brother and a friend, Meg meets mysterious guides who help them journey across extraordinary worlds. The film highlights courage, imagination, and the power of love and belief.

DuVernay’s direction brings emotional depth and visual creativity to this science fiction fantasy story.

Watching movies directed by women is a meaningful way to celebrate the artistic influence women have had on cinema. These films showcase a wide range of storytelling styles, from heartfelt family adventures to romantic comedies and epic science fiction journeys.

International Women’s Day reminds audiences that representation matters not only on screen but also behind the camera. Female directors continue to push creative boundaries, bringing new voices and perspectives that enrich the global film industry.

By adding these titles to your watchlist, you are not only enjoying great entertainment but also recognizing the women who continue to shape the future of filmmaking.