Films that celebrate women supporting women

This month brings us “Women Support Women Day”, and as a movie lover and a Life Lover, I wanted to take the chance to spotlight the films that truly honour sisterhood — whether that’s between friends, sisters, colleagues, or two complete strangers who end up changing each other’s lives. These stories remind us how much we rely on those unconditional, inspiring bonds.

So, here are 15 films that celebrate women supporting women — perfect for starting (or padding out) your watchlist right now.

By Gabby Oyarzun

/littlechilean.com

The phrase “women for women” might sound like something printed on a tote bag at a craft fair, but clichés often exist because they’re true. Women Support Women Day is a moment to recognise the achievements of women from every corner of the world — the mentors, the mates, the quiet heroes, and even the strangers who give you that supportive glance when you’re clearly holding life together with one bobby pin and a prayer.

It’s a day to reach out and say, “I’ve got you — truly.”

Created to encourage us to acknowledge women’s successes, uplift one another, and give the metaphorical pats on the back we all deserve. This day is a reminder to keep pushing forward while building on the resilience of the women who came before us. Simply because we’re stronger together.

So let’s use this day — and these films — to inspire, uplift, and hype each other up.

The First Wives Club (1996)

An iconic trio — Diane Keaton, Bette Midler, and Goldie Hawn — reclaim their power from manipulative ex-husbands with sharp wit, sharper outfits, and one unforgettable rendition of Lesley Gore’s “You Don’t Own Me.” Pure feminist pop culture gold.

Thelma & Louise (1991)

Susan Sarandon and Geena Davis star in this legendary feminist road movie about friendship, freedom, and refusing to apologise for who you are. Written by Callie Khouri, it remains one of the most powerful commentaries on womanhood ever put on screen.

Voleuses / Wingwomen (2023)

This stylish French action-comedy on Netflix follows two elite thieves, Carole and Alex, who dream of escaping their dangerous lifestyle. Their loyalty to each other is the film’s heartbeat — fierce, funny, and deeply moving.

Calendar Girls (2003)

A British classic. Based on a true story, a group of middle-aged women pose nude (tastefully!) for a charity calendar. The result? Humour, heart, and a masterclass in women backing one another with unapologetic pride.

Iron Jawed Angels (2004)

Hilary Swank and Frances O’Connor portray suffragists Alice Paul and Lucy Burns, whose nonviolent activism helped secure women the right to vote. Inspiring, urgent, and a reminder that solidarity can quite literally change the world.

Promising Young Woman (2020)

Emerald Fennell’s razor-sharp thriller follows a woman seeking justice for her best friend after a sexual assault. Carey Mulligan delivers a tour-de-force performance in a film that’s as stylish as it is devastating. Tough to watch, impossible to forget, and entirely centred on loyalty and female rage.

Rocks (2019)

Set in London, this beautiful drama follows Shola (“Rocks”), a teen left to care for her younger brother. Her friends rally around her with fierce loyalty and love. A heartfelt, tear-triggering reminder that chosen family can save us.

Ocean’s 8 (2018)

Sandra Bullock, Cate Blanchett, Anne Hathaway, Rihanna — need we go on? A glamorous heist romp where the women collaborate, strategise, and hype one another up while pulling off an audacious Met Gala robbery. Pure entertainment.

Barbie (2023)

Greta Gerwig’s blockbuster is pink, punchy, and profoundly about female identity and friendship. Margot Robbie’s Barbie learns what it means to be human — flaws, emotions, and all — supported by an ensemble of brilliant Barbies (and one very confused Ken).

The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants (2005)

Four friends. One magical pair of jeans. A thousand tearful moments of solidarity. This coming-of-age favourite highlights the joy (and challenge) of growing up while staying connected to the women who know you best.

The Book Club (2018)

Four lifelong friends refuse to let age or routine define them. Their monthly book club becomes a launch pad for reinvention, mischief, romance, and deep mutual support. Warm, witty, and a lovely reminder that friendship has no expiry date.

Someone Great (2019)

A heartfelt Netflix rom-com about a music journalist navigating a breakup with help from her ride-or-die best friends. It’s messy, modern, honest — and comes with an excellent soundtrack. A perfect comfort watch for anyone rebuilding after heartbreak.

Made in Dagenham (2010)

Not your typical friendship film, but a brilliant story of female solidarity. Based on the true events of women fighting for equal pay, it’s inspiring, rousing, and essential viewing.

Misbehaviour (2020)

A witty, stylish retelling of the 1970 Miss World protest, where feminists and contestants alike challenged sexist norms on a global stage. A celebration of resistance — and women supporting women, even from opposite sides of the same event.

Legally Blonde (2001)

Elle Woods may have enrolled in Harvard Law to win back a man, but she stays to win back her power — and uplift the women around her while doing it. Reese Witherspoon shines in this bright, bubbly classic that flips rivalry into genuine female support. Bend and snap optional.

Before You Hit Play…

If these films teach us anything, it’s that women supporting women isn’t just a lovely idea — it’s a whole cinematic universe. And honestly? It’s one we could all use more of.

Whether it’s fighting injustice, surviving heartbreak, planning a heist, or sharing a pair of suspiciously magical trousers, these stories remind us that life gets a lot easier when you’ve got someone in your corner. A friend, a sister, a colleague, or a total stranger who looks at you and says, “Alright love, we’re doing this together.”

So as you scroll, stream, snack, and add new favourites to your list, take a moment to send a message to a woman you adore, and remember we’re all better when we lift each other up — even if it’s just to reach the snacks on the top shelf.

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