Intersecting Feminism and Film: Male Filmmakers and Women’s Stories

Poster for film, Companion, which has been making waves at the box office

Sofia Ernst |Writer

The struggles of female filmmakers have been documented throughout film history. The industry has seen an increased push for inclusion, and there has been a rise in female storytellers and directors.

As a social media strategist for a publishing company, Sonia Sells has dedicated much of her online presence to covering female writers within the entertainment industry. She notes that the general support for female filmmakers has significantly increased over the past 20 years. 

Subsequently, the rise in support for female filmmakers has contributed to increased feminist messages and elements in films, according to film critic Dave Prince in Hollywood Progressive.

The presence of feminist themes in the film industry has proven to be not just about representation but also empowerment. 

“It’s gotten to a point where all women’s stories are told,” said Sells. 

Even with the increasing presence of female filmmakers in the industry, male filmmakers have continued to play a role in telling women’s stories. Films like “Companion” – written and directed by Drew Hancock – that focus on female-led stories while covering feminist topics exemplify this continuous trend. 

According to the film’s credits, there were not many women involved in the film’s creation. 

Victoria Halkias, a LCCC student and female filmmaker, says that even with the clear feminist undertones, the film did not feel truly feminist. She describes  “Companion” as telling a woman’s perspective but without female involvement.

“Writing about powerful women without empowering female filmmakers can be harmful,” said Halkias.

However, films like  “Companion” attempt to showcase strong female characters, but they tend to let an opportunity sail by, failing to provide women with creative control to represent their experiences. Even with the best intentions, a lack of perspective may limit a male filmmaker’s ability to fully capture the nuance of these narratives. 

The issue extends beyond representation in front of the cameras, as it becomes about ensuring women the resources to tell their stories while focusing on their experiences.  

As the industry moves to further gender equality by highlighting female-led stories, female storytellers should be empowered to share their narratives to push for more authentic representation.