Film Education -

Introduction

March 8th marks International Women’s Day, an annual event to promote the achievements of women worldwide and to support the advancement of women and their struggle for equality.

Film can provide teachers with an excellent stimulus to raise a range of issues including those underpinning International Women’s Day. This resource, which is available as a downloadable PDF, suggests how teachers might use film in a variety of subject areas to raise the subject of women’s role in society.

Use these questions to start students reflecting on the significance of film in promoting the advancement of women:

• What do you think is the purpose of International Women’s Day? Take a look at the official website for ideas.
• What films have you seen most recently either at the cinema or on TV? Which, if any, of these represent strong female characters in a central role? Explain what you believe makes these female characters strong.
• Make a list of the most famous actors (male and female) you know of. For each one, jot down the names of the characters who in your opinion they most vividly portrayed. For example, Daniel Craig as James Bond in Skyfall; Jennifer Lawrence as Katniss Everdeen in the Hunger Games etc. In your group, focus your discussion now on the portrayal of the female characters you have listed. To what extent, do these characters ‘promote the advancement of women’? Explain your answer.