The fairer sex is taking Hollywood, Bollywood, and every other –Wood by storm. From actresses to directors, we’re lucky to live in an era where female film stars are abundant behind the scenes and in front of the camera. Some of these talents are known around the world while others silently keep our film-going fantastic.
Succeeding in a largely male-dominated field takes talent, skill, and determination. However, women have been making serious headway over the past couple of decades. Similar to an SEO company, it’s all about knowing the playing field. Take a look at these female film stars that are making waves.
Actresses to Watch
Louise Linton lit up the screen in “”Lions for Lambs.” This Scottish-born actress got familiar with the stage at age six and is slated to be the next British actress to cross the pond. Catch her in the upcoming films “Scavengers” and “The Power of Few.”
Ashley Bell won an Independent Spirit award for her performance in “The Last Exorcism.” It’s rare that a breakout performance happens in a horror film (unless you’re Linda Blair), which makes Bell one to watch in coming years.
Bollywood darling Kareena Kapoor stars in what seems to be the vast majority of Indian films. Known both as one of the best young actresses in the industry and for her size-zero frame, it’s difficult to catch an Indian film without spotting Kapoor. Her “every woman” looks (minus the tiny waist) and ability to adapt to a number of roles makes her a favorite.
Great Female Directors to Watch
Amy Heckerling is known for directing staggeringly realistic teen films like “Fast Times at Ridgemont High” and “Clueless.” She reunited with actress Alicia Silverstone in 2011”s “Vamps” and continues her decades-long career as one of the best directors in the business.
Kathryn Bigelow made her big mark with 1987s “Near Dark,” a vampire thriller that took a different approach from other films in the genre. Her gritty approach to films like “Hurt Locker” and “Point Break” shot her to stardom among her male-dominated peer group.
Zoya Akhtar is helping Bollywood female directors tread new ground. Akhtars breakout film “Luck By Chance” is where she cut her teeth, and she’s led the movement of women directors of India when it comes to getting into the industry of filmmaking.
Women Screenwriters and Producers to Watch
Sofia Coppola leads the pack in screenwriting. Her stunning writing and directing in “The Virgin Suicides” confirmed her status, and her work on “Lost in Translation” earned her an Oscar.
Nancy Meyers is one of the most steadily working female screenwriters in the industry. Hits like “Father of the Bride,” and “Private Benjamin” gave her a reputation as one of the best writers to work with. She blended writing with directing in more recent films like “Its Complicated,” “The Holiday,” and “What Women Want.” Clearly, she has a knack for rom-com that no one can touch.
Lauren Versel has more than 25 years of experience in film, television and theatre as a writer, director, editor, producer and financier. She is a charter member of WIFV and Founder of Lucky Monkey Pictures. She recently produced Vamps with director Amy Heckerling (Clueless, Fast Times At Ridgemont High).
Event Alert: You can catch Lauren Versel at the WIFTI Summit on Saturday, December 1st. She will be speaking from 1 p.m. to 4:15 p.m at A League of Their Own: Pitch to Green Light Producers Roundtable. A screening of Vamps will be shown later that night at the University of California, DC starting at 8:30 p.m. Lauren will be in attendance. Champagne and dessert will be available for guests.
Byline: Michelle Rebecca is a writer and blogger with a passion for the Internet, specifically social media and blogging. She loves how social media connects people across the globe, and appreciates that blogging gives her the opportunity to voice her thoughts and share advice with an unlimited audience.