By Virginia Terry, Girl Rising VP of Communications
As Girl Rising celebrates our tenth anniversary, we reflect on a decade of impact and envision a future of change. Our journey has been marked by stories that illuminate the barriers to girls' education as well as the powerful ripple effects of educating girls. Today, we turn our attention to the incredible power of films to spark social change. Films have a unique ability to reach hearts and minds, transcending borders and cultures to shed light on critical issues, challenge injustices, and inspire action. Here, we celebrate ten films that have profoundly influenced the world, just as our own Girl Rising film ignited a global movement for girls' education over ten years ago. Great storytelling remains at the heart of what we do, and today we honor these ten important films that have helped to change hearts, minds, and policy. What films would you add to the list?
Pink (2016 - India)
A courtroom drama that addresses issues of consent and women's rights in India, "Pink" became a cultural touchstone. It sparked nationwide conversations about gender equality and the importance of respecting women's autonomy.
Thank You for the Rain (2017 - Kenya)
This film follows Kisilu Musya, a Kenyan farmer, as he transforms from a village leader to a global climate activist. His journey highlights the impacts of climate change on smallholder farmers and has inspired action and dialogue on climate resilience.
City of God (2002 - Brazil)
A gritty portrayal of life in the favelas of Rio de Janeiro, this film exposed the world to the brutal realities of poverty and gang violence in Brazil. Its powerful storytelling sparked discussions about urban violence and social inequality.
Roma (2018 - Mexico)
Set in 1970s Mexico City, this film tells the story of Cleo, an Indigenous domestic worker for a middle-class family. "Roma" highlights issues of class, race, and gender inequality, and has brought attention to the rights and working conditions of domestic workers that continue today and the need for better labor protections. Playing the part of Cleo, Yalitza Aparicio was the first Indigenous woman to receive an Oscar nomination for Best Actress.
The Square (2013 - Egypt)
This documentary captures the Egyptian Revolution of 2011 from its roots in Tahrir Square. By providing an inside look at the protests, it brought international attention to the struggle for democracy and human rights in Egypt.
The Act of Killing (2012 - Indonesia)
This chilling documentary explores the mass killings in Indonesia during the 1960s through the eyes of the perpetrators. By doing so, it challenged viewers to confront the nature of violence and the importance of historical memory and justice.
13th (2016 - US)
Directed by Ava DuVernay, this film examines the intersection of race, justice, and mass incarceration in the United States. It highlights the historical roots of systemic racism and has been a critical tool in the conversation about criminal justice reform.
Blackfish (2013 - US)
This documentary exposes the cruel treatment of orcas in captivity, focusing on the story of Tilikum, a performing killer whale. The film spurred a global movement against the captivity of marine mammals and led to significant changes in marine park policies.
For Sama (2019 - Syria)
A personal account of the Syrian Civil War through the lens of a young mother, this documentary captures the horrors and human cost of the conflict. It has raised global awareness about the Syrian crisis and the plight of civilians caught in war.
Girl Rising (2013 - US)
Yes, we are proud of the “Girl Rising” documentary, but mainly we are moved by the incredible stories of nine girls from around the world who show the power of education to change lives. It has been instrumental in our programs around the world and in driving global advocacy for girls' education.
These films are powerful examples of how storytelling can inspire change. What films would you add to the list? Let us know in the comments! #GirlRising10
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