10 Awesome ‘Girl Movies’ That Made a Lasting Impression on Viewers’ Identity

Jennifer Garner and Renee Olstead in 13 Going on 30 (2004)

In this digital age, we have access to media worldwide, impacting our daily lives. Everyone wants to see themselves in the media they consume because it has the capability to change lives. Movies can have such impacts on people. For women, seeing solid and independent female characters is the perfect representation to inspire their lives for the better!

Legally Blonde (2001)

Reese Witherspoon and Moonie in Legally Blonde (2001)
Photo by Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios Inc.

According to women respondents, Legally Blonde is the perfect feminist movie. The movie helps reinforce the idea that women, as Elle believed, do not need beauty to get a man. They have self-worth, regardless of what they wear or look like. Her mother taught the main character this, as most girls are taught the same in real life! On top of that, women are thankful to the movie directors for letting Elle keep her feminine interests to push the idea that women do not have to lose their femininity to appear strong.

Mulan (1998)

Ming-Na Wen and Soon-Tek Oh in Mulan (1998)
Photo by Walt Disney Studios.

Mulan is a Disney tale and an inclusive one at that! It is the tale of a Chinese girl who disguises herself as a man to join the army in place of her father. Women say that for the first time, they saw a girl who did not do typical “girl things” and felt represented. For Asian women, it was another win to see a heroic woman on screen who looked like them! Seeing themselves represented through a bad*** character like Mulan was a big confidence booster.

10 Things I Hate About You (1999)

Heath Ledger and Julia Stiles in 10 Things I Hate About You (1999)
Photo by Touchstone Pictures

This movie is on the list of most women who love romance. When you watch this movie, not only will you get all the romantic feels, but for many women, it left an impact on them. Seeing Kat (the main character) go against the grain and still have the boy be wild about her was a pleasant change for them. It gave hope to many women that they could still have hope for romantic relationships even if they are non-girly.

The Princess Diaries (2001)

Heather Matarazzo, Anne Hathaway, and Mandy Moore in The Princess Diaries (2001)
Photo by Walt Disney Studios.

Doesn’t every girl dream of one day waking up and discovering they are the princess of some country? I think The Princess Diaries series encouraged all our dreams of this scenario. It is the story of an ordinary girl named Mia who discovers she’s a princess, and her life takes a turn as she learns to be confident in her skin and who she is. For many women, it taught them the lesson of not changing themselves to be liked by people and that they do not need a man to have a fulfilling life!

The Craft (1996)

Fairuza Balk, Neve Campbell, Robin Tunney, and Rachel True in The Craft (1996)
Photo by Columbia Pictures

The Craft is a horror-mostly movie, but some women have picked it as the perfect “girl movie.” People may find it strange to see this movie being referred to as the movie that impacted them, but that’s the case for some women! It is the story of a girl who joins a group/coven of girls who practice witchcraft against people they don’t like. According to the women, it may have spooked them out a little, but some really enjoyed it, took it seriously, and would bring candles and things to school!

Miss Congeniality (2000)

Sandra Bullock, Heather Burns, and Wendy Raquel Robinson in Miss Congeniality (2000)
Photo by Warner Bros. Pictures

Miss Congeniality positively impacted women by portraying a strong, independent female lead who balances femininity with toughness, challenging stereotypes about beauty and intelligence. The film emphasizes self-acceptance and the importance of women supporting one another, making it an empowering narrative for women. Many women say they watch this movie often and love it each time! Something is empowering about connecting with a beautiful and graceful female lead; it indeed left a mark!

Girl, Interrupted (1999)

Winona Ryder and Angelina Jolie in Girl, Interrupted (1999)
Photo by Global Entertainment Productions GmbH & Co. Movie KG.

Girl, Interrupted (1999) was empowering for some women because it addresses mental health struggles and the journey toward self-acceptance. The film highlights the strength and resilience of women who face societal pressures and personal challenges, ultimately emphasizing the importance of owning one’s narrative and finding empowerment through healing and self-discovery. For some women, the topics could be triggering, but one person shared that this movie helped them realize that they could go through trauma and abuse but still live the life they wanted.

13 Going On 30 (2004)

Jennifer Garner and Renee Olstead in 13 Going on 30 (2004)
Photo by Columbia Pictures, Inc.

Some say 13 Going On 30 is a great movie as it emphasizes the importance of staying true to oneself and valuing genuine relationships over superficial success. Through Jenna’s journey of self-reflection, the film encourages women to embrace their authenticity and to prioritize happiness and integrity over societal expectations.

Now and Then (1995)

Demi Moore, Rita Wilson, and Rosie O'Donnell in Now and Then (1995)
Photo by New Line Cinema.

With the perfect soundtrack, Now and Then is another girl favorite! One user shared her experience watching this movie as a 9-year-old, and she desperately wanted to be as cool as Thora Birch. She watched the movie endlessly! The film emphasizes the lasting impact of childhood bonds and the power of shared experiences, showing that women can find empowerment and resilience in their connections with each other.

The Devil Wears Prada (2006)

Anne Hathaway and Adrian Grenier in The Devil Wears Prada (2006)
Photo by 20th Century Fox

The fantastic thing about this movie is each time you watch it, you will identify with another character, identify a new arc, or realize a new theme. It packs a punch! Many women felt they could relate to Andy’s life as they found a job they liked but ignored their relations and learned the lesson. For other women, seeing Andy work in the fashion industry and being invited to runways and wearing brands like Chanel was fun to watch. Get ready too, as The Devil Wears Prada sequel was just confirmed!

10 Actually Brilliant Movies That Audiences Didn’t Like

Russell Crowe in Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World (2003)
Photo by 20th Century Fox

On an online platform, movie fans recently revealed some of their favorite films that earned terrible reviews from audiences. 

Read more: 10 Actually Brilliant Movies That Audiences Didn’t Like

10 Movies That Everyone Needs to See at Least Once in Their Lifetime

The Shawshank Redemption (1994)
© 1994 Castle Rock Entertainment

Movies are created in multiple different genres. Thousands of new movies have been released in a decade. Movies, although, are a source of entertainment. However, they can also change your perspective on things very much. On an online platform, people discussed and suggested some of the best movies everyone should watch once in their lifetime.

Read more: 10 Movies That Everyone Needs to See at Least Once in Their Lifetime

25 Must-Watch Movies on Netflix Right Now

Kevin Hart and Dwayne Johnson in Central Intelligence (2016)
Photo credit: Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc.

Are you looking for exciting and memorable movie experiences from the comfort of your own couch? There is no need to look any further! Recently, people submitted a list of must-watch Netflix movies on an online platform that would captivate and engage you.

Read more: 25 Must-Watch Movies on Netflix Right Now

12 Classic Hollywood Movies That Are Often Overrated

Matt Dillon and Thandiwe Newton in Crash (2004)
Photo by: Lionsgate Films

In the realm of cinematic reverence, certain films have achieved iconic status, yet it’s imperative to scrutinize whether these classics remain flawless under contemporary analysis. While these films undoubtedly shaped the cinematic landscape, this venture aims to spark insightful conversations about aspects overshadowed by their acclaimed legacies. The intent is not to diminish their significance but to cultivate a more comprehensive appraisal of their position in film history.

Read more: 12 Classic Hollywood Movies That Are Often Overrated

10 of the Best Heist Movies That Grab You and Never Let Go

Robert De Niro and Natascha McElhone in Ronin (1998)
Photo credit: United Artists FGM Entertainment

Heist films have captured audiences’ attention in the world of cinema with their suspenseful stories, devious plans, and endearing characters. These movies, which range from classics to modern masterpieces, have left their mark on viewers. People recently discussed their favorite heist flicks on an online forum. Let’s have a look.

Read more: 10 of the Best Heist Movies That Grab You and Never Let Go