girl power · empowerment · family · role models
Top 5 Movies That Show Girl Power
Movie Knight Editorial Team ·
Looking for inspiring stories led by strong female characters? These five films celebrate girls and women who lead armies, break barriers, and use their intelligence and courage to change the world.
The best movies that show girl power feature strong, determined female protagonists who break barriers and inspire others. These films celebrate courage, intelligence, and perseverance, proving that heroism comes in many forms.
From historical dramas about real-life pioneers to animated adventures with warrior princesses, these stories showcase girls and women taking the lead. They provide powerful examples of what can be achieved with grit, teamwork, and a belief in oneself.
Choose tonight’s movie
Quick picks
- Mulan
- Hidden Figures
- Akeelah and the Bee
- A League of Their Own
- Raya and the Last Dragon
Movie Knight guide
The full list
No. 1
Mulan
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A Warrior's Heart
Mulan
To save her ailing father, a young woman disguises herself as a man to take his place in the Chinese army against Hun invaders. This animated classic features battle sequences and an intimidating villain, but its message of courage and breaking gender stereotypes is powerful; it works best for kids 6 and up.
No. 2
Hidden Figures
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Counting to the Moon
Hidden Figures
This inspiring true story follows three brilliant African-American women who were the mathematical brains behind NASA's first space missions. The film directly confronts the historical realities of racial segregation and workplace sexism in a way that is clear and accessible, and it works best for kids 9 and up.
No. 3
Akeelah and the Bee
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The Power of Words
Akeelah and the Bee
An 11-year-old girl from South Los Angeles discovers a talent for spelling and, with the help of a coach, aims for the National Spelling Bee. The film touches on themes of grief and social prejudice with a gentle hand, focusing on perseverance and community support; it works best for kids 8 and up.
No. 4
A League of Their Own
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No Crying in Baseball
A League of Their Own
During WWII, two sisters join the first all-female professional baseball league, facing rivalry and skepticism as they chase their dreams. Parents should know the film accurately depicts the era, including characters smoking and drinking, but its story of teamwork and perseverance is timeless; it works best for kids 8 and up.
No. 5
Raya and the Last Dragon
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Trust the Dragon
Raya and the Last Dragon
A lone warrior princess must track down the world's last dragon to save her fractured land from a sinister, stone-turning plague. The film features intense action sequences and themes of betrayal and loss, but its ultimate message is a beautiful lesson on trust and unity; it works best for kids 7 and up.
Before you press play
A note for parents
"Girl power" is more than just a catchphrase; it's about showing kids that strength comes in many forms—intellectual, emotional, and physical. The films on this list were chosen because they feature female characters who are not just accessories to a male hero's journey but are the architects of their own stories. They lead, innovate, compete, and fight, providing a diverse and inspiring slate of role models for all children.
Questions parents ask
Parent FAQ
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