Navigating life's challenges as a young woman can often feel like an uphill climb, encountering moments of vulnerability, self-doubt, and uncertainties. As a fellow traveler in life's journey, I've made a collection of seven movies that have guided me through difficult phases, offering a unique blend of solace and empowerment.
These films go beyond mere entertainment; they're mentors and friends during tough times, presenting narratives that echo with inner strength, mental independence, and the courage to rise above obstacles. In this blog, I want to show the list to my fellow girls who might face similar challenges, offering these films as a source of inspiration that resilience and strength lie within each of us.
1. When Losing oneself and being too dependent on others: Thelma & Louise
A naive and weak housewife, constantly browbeaten by her husband, and a friend who works as a restaurant server, eventually grow into independent individuals who can protect themselves under the pressure of a male-dominated society.
2. For those who don't want to work or study hard: Homeless to Harvard: The Liz Murray Story
This is an incredibly inspiring movie and it talks about a girl, Liz, is not only poor but also suffers greatly in her troubled family life. When she realizes that only studying can change her fate, she fights and learns against all odds, eventually entering the most prestigious institution, the Harvard University.
3. For the lacking in self-confidence: The Princess Diaries
Mia, extremely lacking in self-confidence and so ordinary that she's forgotten by teachers, is told at 16 that she is a princess. Amidst her transformation, she faces ridicule from classmates. But after starting to reconsider life, she gradually regains confidence and eventually becomes a true princess.
4. For those stuck in a bad relationship and lack the courage to leave: Flipped
This film tells the story of a young girl, Juli, and a boy, Bryce. Juli is smitten with Bryce from the first moment she lays eyes on him, assuming he feels the same. She tries hard to break through Bryce's shyness, believing it's the reason for his lack of response. However, Bryce's "shyness" is actually due to disdain and avoidance. It's only with the guidance of Bryce's grandfather that he begins to realize Juli's value and gradually falls in love with her.
5. For those indulging in love but not interested in building a career: Legally Blonde
Elle, a beautiful and fashion-savvy girl, gets dumped by her boyfriend for a more serious image. Despite his attempts to reconcile when she gets into Harvard Law School, she has moved beyond him. Through Elle's studying, she has found something more important than her boyfriend, like discovers her own legal acumen, challenges stereotypes, and discovers her true potential beyond what others expect of her.
6. For early career and workplace confusion: The Devil Wears Prada
Whenever I face setbacks or grievances in life or studies, I revisit this film. It is where both newbies in the workplace and struggling interns can find a reflection of themselves. It tells the story of a recent graduate, Andy who lands a job at a prestigious fashion magazine, Highway, and grows through her journey as the stern and demanding Miranda's assistant.
7. Must-see when hitting bottom in life: Erin Brockovich
This is a movie that is created based on true events. In the movie, the protagonist faces life's lowest point: two failed marriages, three kids, unemployment, a car accident, and even losing the case she pinned her hopes on. However, with courage and determination, she wins the largest civil settlement lawsuit in U.S. history and later achieves a successful career.
In conclusion, these stories offer inspiration and empowerment, guiding young women through adversity towards self-discovery and resilience.
There are also a lot of fashion elements in the movie (especially business casual wear) for young women to get inspiration from. You can learn more here at BeautyInVogue to build up your work capsule wardrobe~!
Btw I REALLY like Anne Hathaway, she deserves better. I am willing to see more of her movies!
It is so easy to fall in love with Bryce at the very first second, but as the movie goes, i really love Juli. Some of us get dipped in flat, some in satin, some in gloss… But every once in a while you find someone who's iridescent, and when you do, nothing will ever compare. I totally feel the same. Thank you so much Juli for being yourself and I really learn a lot from you.