2023 has been quite the year for cinema. Studios showed they would do anything to prevent the hardworking people who make them billions yearly from earning a livable wage or getting better work conditions. Actors, writers, VFX artists, and the wide gamut of talent behind the scenes came together to hold all their overlords’ feet to the fire, and while there was still much to do, they succeeded at bringing progress. Meanwhile, many films were released in theatres and on streaming that have left a lasting impression on all of us. What’s most notable about this year is the wide range of genres and styles of films released by women this year. From blockbuster hits like Barbie to quiet intimate affairs like Past Lives to the absolute kooky like Cocaine Bear, women ran 2023 in a significant way.
As the year closes out, we want to recognize some of our favourites, but before we do that, let’s recognize a few films that didn’t make the cut but are still worth discussing. Emerald Fennell’s Saltburn is causing an uproar for its outrageous imagery, cementing her place in the Expect-Weird-Things Artist Pantheon that men have dominated for so long. Nia DaCosta’s The Marvels was a refreshing change from the monotonous nature of the MCU; despite dudebros having an issue with women having fun and Marvel inhibiting their writers and directors, The Marvels came out alright and was a delight. Women dominated in the indie space with the likes of Priscilla, Theater Camp, Shayda, and many more, which gave us a glimpse of the rising stars that will challenge the status quo and provide us with art to admire. Beyoncé’s Renaissance was an internationally recognized cultural moment, and her concert movie of the tour was one of two mega moments at the theatres.
There is so much more to recognize, but let’s get into our 10 favourite films of 2023 directed by women!
Barbie dir. Greta Gerwig
Barbie was a long time coming, so expectations were understandably high. But with the passionate Margot Robbie leading the charge and bringing on board Greta Gerwig and her Ken, Noah Baumbach, it was only fitting that the bubblegum pink, joyous, life-affirming, and introspective epic be as perfect as it was.
Origin dir. Ava DuVernay
DuVernay’s latest feature is perhaps the most important of her career (thus far). The biographical drama follows the life of Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Isabel Wilkerson (portrayed by Aunjanue Ellis) as she grapples with personal tragedy and sets forth on a globe-trotting investigative journey as she writes her book Caste: The Origins of our Discontents. Timely and necessary, Origin is one of the best films this year and was most definitely one of the best to be screened at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) this year.
A Thousand and One dir. A.V. Rockwell
Another feature film directorial debut this year was A.V. Rockwell’s A Thousand and One. Featuring a powerful performance by Teyana Taylor as Inez, a mother who makes the decision to kidnap her son out of the foster care system after she’s released from prison. The film shines a light on systemic inequity and a mother’s devotion in this beautifully shot, written and acted film.
Rye Lane dir. Raine Allen-Miller
For those of us mourning the loss of the classic romantic comedy made by and for Black people, Raine Allen-Miller delivered us a delightful gift. Rye Lane is so endearing and vibrant. What is vital to Rye Lane‘s ever-lasting presence in the teen rom-com pantheon is the film’s sense of originality and authenticity. It’s a true tragedy that the film is unavailable on home video.
Polite Society dir. Nida Manzoor
After wowing us with her series We Are Lady Parts, Nida Manzoor endeavoured to grow her career with her debut feature film Polite Society. The genre-bending comedy follows a passionate teen who aspires to be a stuntwoman as she takes action when her beloved sister’s pending nuptials threaten to upend her world. The film is a joyous delight and shines a spotlight on the hilarious, action-packed adventures of being in the Muslim community. Sometimes, the aunties are scarier than any make-believe villain.
Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret dir. Kelly Fremon Craig
Based on the beloved novel of the same name by Judy Blume, Craig’s take on Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret is a fantastic coming-of-age film that boasts great performances from Abby Ryder Fortson as Margaret and Rachel McAdams as Margaret’s mother, Barbara. As it hits you right in the feels, the movie will make you laugh and make you cry, and remember just how difficult and funny being a pre-teen was.
Past Lives dir. Celine Song
This time spanning romantic drama was a pleasure to witness. With amazing performances by Greta Lee, Teo Yoo and John Magaro, Past Lives is unlike any other romantic drama you might have watched lately. It is a brilliant exploration of human bonds at their strongest and weakest, and how they shape our lives. Song’s film is certainly one of the best feature film debuts.
Anatomy of a Fall dir. Justine Triet
Triet astounded audiences this year with her latest film, Anatomy of a Fall. Written and directed by Triet, the film follows Sandra (Sandra Hüller) as she tries to prove her innocence after the death of her husband. As the investigation ensues, the film creates a tense did she/didn’t she atmosphere with Hüller’s performance bringing everything together perfectly.
Cocaine Bear dir. Elizabeth Banks
A drug smuggler threw cocaine out of a plane. That cocaine landed in the Chattahoochee National Forest, where a bear found it. This true story was the basis of the quirky, hilarious, and bloody comedy aptly titled Cocaine Bear. Elizabeth Banks gave us precisely what anyone who reads this title expects and then some.
Joy Ride dir. Adele Lim
Adele Lim was a vital part of the success of Crazy Rich Asians, and when news broke that the studio behind the film disrespected the rising screenwriter, all one could do was hope she would set out on her own. She did! Joy Ride is a gut-busting, endearing and charming comedy. The movie wasn’t given its due in theatres, but it is a true gem bound to find a passionate audience.
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