Films and feminism

When it comes to representation of women in films, Bollywood seems to be in a better place right now, as actresses are hogging the spotlight even in mainstream cinema

When it comes to representation of women in films, Bollywood seems to be in a better place right now, as actresses are hogging the spotlight even in mainstream cinema. While this might be a good change, there is a lot more to hope for.

Paromita Vohra

At Feminist Rani, a discussion organised by video storytelling platform She the People, film-makers Paromita Vohra and Mary Dore will discuss about portrayal of women in films. Dore is known for her 2014 documentary, She's beautiful When She's Angry which discusses the women's movement in the US from the late '60s.

Poster of Mary Dore's She's Beautiful When She's Angry

"In commercial films, there is no doubt that we are witnessing a change, especially films like Piku and Queen; it's a welcome change. Nevertheless, all these characters seem to fall in a similar category. The change is happening but slowly," says Vohra. She is optimistic about the documentary scene too, one that she is part of and feels that the subject of scripts — whether dating in the city or living alone — is getting experimental.

"There are clear narratives, and with feminism in mind, the perspective of the film-maker changes and you look at the whole world differently. It's not just important to look at how women are portrayed on screen but also consider how male characters are presented," she tells us.

Time: 6.30 pm to 8 pm
On: Today
At: Deepak Talkies, Lower Parel.
Log on to: shethepeople.tv/feminist-rani

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