The Legacy of 2018

For decades, Hollywood, like many cultural institutions, had largely operated under a patriarchal framework. Stories were often told by men, for men, and about men. Women, when present, frequently served as supporting characters, love interests, or plot devices, their inner lives and motivations secondary to the male protagonist's journey. The concept of female pov was often reduced to a simplified, sometimes stereotypical, understanding of femininity.

However, 2018 marked a significant acceleration in the push for diverse voices and perspectives. Fueled by movements like #MeToo and a growing awareness of systemic inequalities, audiences and creators alike began demanding more authentic and complex female characters. This wasn't about simply putting more women on screen; it was about entrusting them with their own stories, allowing them to drive the narrative, and exploring the world from their unique vantage points.

The films of 2018 that championed the female pov delved into a wide array of themes, each offering a distinct lens through which to view the female experience:

Identity and Self-Discovery

Many narratives centered on women grappling with their identities, often in the face of societal pressures or personal crises. These films explored the complexities of self-acceptance, the search for purpose, and the courage it takes to forge one's own path.

• Example: Lady Bird (2017, but its impact resonated strongly into 2018) offered a poignant and often humorous look at a teenage girl navigating adolescence, family relationships, and her own burgeoning sense of self. Saoirse Ronan's portrayal captured the universal awkwardness and fierce individuality of a young woman trying to define herself against the backdrop of her environment. The film’s intimate focus on Christine "Lady Bird" McPherson’s internal world made it a powerful example of a deeply personal female pov.

Resilience and Empowerment

A recurring motif was the demonstration of female resilience in the face of adversity. Whether confronting personal trauma, systemic injustice, or challenging societal norms, these characters exhibited strength, determination, and an unwavering will to survive and thrive.

• Example: Widows showcased a group of women from different backgrounds who are forced to pull off a heist to pay off a debt left behind by their dead husbands. Directed by Steve McQueen and co-written by Gillian Flynn, the film masterfully blended genre thrills with a profound exploration of female agency and the unexpected bonds that form under pressure. Viola Davis, Michelle Rodriguez, Elizabeth Debicki, and Cynthia Erivo delivered powerhouse performances, each embodying a distinct facet of strength and vulnerability. The film didn't shy away from the gritty realities of their circumstances, presenting a raw and unflinching look at how women adapt and fight back when pushed to their limits.

Relationships and Sisterhood

The dynamics of female relationships, particularly sisterhood and friendships, were also brought to the forefront. These films highlighted the support, understanding, and sometimes friction that exist between women, showcasing the unique power of these connections.

• Example: Eighth Grade (released in 2018) provided an incredibly authentic and empathetic portrayal of a young girl’s journey through the anxieties and social minefield of middle school. Bo Burnham’s directorial debut was lauded for its sensitive and insightful depiction of Kayla Day’s struggles with self-esteem, social interaction, and the overwhelming pressure to fit in. Elsie Fisher’s performance was remarkably nuanced, capturing the quiet desperation and hopeful vulnerability of a pre-teen trying to find her voice. The film’s focus on Kayla’s internal monologue and her awkward attempts at connection resonated deeply with audiences who recognized the universal experience of navigating formative years.

Challenging Societal Norms and Patriarchy

Several films directly confronted patriarchal structures and societal expectations that limit women. These narratives often featured characters who defied conventions, questioned authority, and fought for their autonomy and the rights of others.

• Example: The Miseducation of Cameron Post followed a young woman sent to a conversion therapy camp after being caught with another girl. The film, while dealing with a difficult subject matter, was ultimately a story of self-acceptance and finding community among those who are marginalized. Chloë Grace Moretz delivered a compelling performance as Cameron, a character who navigates shame and fear to ultimately embrace her true identity. The film’s quiet determination and focus on the internal struggle of its protagonist made it a significant contribution to the female pov in LGBTQ+ cinema.

The rise of the female pov in 2018 was inextricably linked to the increasing visibility and influence of female directors, writers, and producers. These creators brought their unique lived experiences and perspectives to the filmmaking process, ensuring that the stories being told were authentic and resonant.

• Directors like Greta Gerwig (Lady Bird), Debra Granik (Leave No Trace), and Lynne Ramsay (You Were Never Really Here) continued to push boundaries and deliver critically acclaimed work that was deeply personal and universally relatable. Their ability to craft intimate character studies and explore complex emotional landscapes from a distinctly female perspective was instrumental in shaping the cinematic landscape of the year.
• Writers like Gillian Flynn (Widows) and Eliza Hittman (Beach Rats) demonstrated a keen understanding of female psychology and societal pressures, weaving intricate plots that centered on female protagonists’ agency and resilience. Their contributions were vital in moving beyond superficial portrayals and delving into the nuanced realities of women's lives.

Beyond the narrative content, filmmakers in 2018 also employed specific technical and aesthetic choices to enhance the female pov.

• Cinematography: Close-ups on characters' faces, lingering shots that allowed for emotional processing, and subjective camera work that immersed the audience in the protagonist's experience were common techniques. The visual language often prioritized emotional intimacy over action-driven spectacle.
• Sound Design and Score: The use of music and sound was often employed to reflect the internal states of the female characters, amplifying their emotions and creating a more immersive experience for the viewer.
• Editing: Pacing was frequently used to allow for reflection and emotional depth, with moments of quiet contemplation interspersed with scenes of intense emotional or psychological significance.

While the surge in female pov storytelling was overwhelmingly positive, it also invited discussion and, at times, criticism. Some argued that focusing on female experiences was exclusionary or that it prioritized "message" over "art." However, these critiques often overlooked the fundamental principle that diverse perspectives enrich storytelling for everyone.

The goal wasn't to exclude male perspectives but to broaden the spectrum of narratives available. For too long, the "default" perspective in media had been male. By actively seeking out and amplifying female voices, cinema became more representative of the human experience in its entirety. The films of 2018 demonstrated that stories centered on women were not niche; they were universal, exploring themes of love, loss, ambition, and identity that resonate with all audiences.

The cinematic achievements of 2018 in prioritizing the female pov had a lasting impact. They not only provided audiences with compelling and diverse stories but also signaled a significant shift in the industry's priorities. This momentum continued to build in subsequent years, with more women taking on creative and leadership roles, and a greater demand for authentic representation across all forms of media.

The films from this era serve as a testament to the power of diverse storytelling. They challenged audiences to see the world through different eyes, fostering empathy and understanding. The courage of these female characters, the vision of their creators, and the growing appetite for these narratives collectively reshaped what was possible in cinema.

The exploration of the female pov in 2018 was more than just a trend; it was a fundamental recalibration of how stories are told and who gets to tell them. It was a year that celebrated the multifaceted nature of womanhood and affirmed the universal power of authentic human experience, regardless of gender. The films released during this period continue to inspire and resonate, reminding us of the vital importance of diverse perspectives in art and culture.