Ever wondered what it was like to be a Celtic warrior queen? Well, like I OBVIOUSLY know 😃 but for those of you who might be interested, it might be worth taking a squint at a new movie which has debuted on Neflix.
Ever heard of Boudica? A fine woman who had a fair amount to deal with in her day and lets just say it didn’t end well😢
A movie about her life is played by Olga Kurylenko and worth settling down with of a friday with a few drops of mead.
Needless to say there is no shortage of male superheroes who captivate audiences of all kinds with their amazing feats of heroism, amazing superhuman powers, fantastical adventures and many times, thought-provoking dilemmas.
But it got me thinking.
The dominance of male characters at the centre of these tales would leave many assuming that women aren’t blessed with awesome metal-bending powers or at all concerned with the salvation of the world as we know it.
If they ever are in these tales, others would imagine, they are probably side-kicks, damsels in distress, or alien mothers bestowing great gifts to their sons before perishing.
Believe it or not there are well-made, fascinating and action-packed women hero movies. What’s more, women heroes outside the comic world run the risk of being left out of the conversation altogether about what to watch of a Friday.
Exhibit 1 – Wonder Woman (2017)
This could have been about me! Diana Prince (Gal Gadot) is a trained warrior in a secluded island paradise where she is a princess. However, she leaves her home when a pilot crashes on the shores of the island and informs her of a massive conflict in the outside world. As she embarks on a journey to end all wars, she discovers her powers and true destiny.
Embracing her destiny as Wonder Woman, she fights the Nazis at the height of World War I. She emerges as a symbol of hope through her compassion, resilience, and strength. She should have been called Maeve.
Black Widow (2021)
The talented Scarlett Johansson is Natasha Romanoff/Black Widow. The film offers a captivating exploration of Natasha’s enigmatic past. It delves into her life between the events of “Avengers: Infinity War” and “Captain America: Civil War”. Natasha confronts her dark history as a Russian spy as she unveils the secrets and relationships that shaped her.
As she grapples with her past, we see breathtaking action episodes, espionage, and emotional depth. Johansson’s portrayal showcases the Black Widow’s strength and resilience. The movie serves as a thrilling standalone adventure and a fitting tribute to the star’s legacy in the Marvel Cinematic universe.
The Old Guard (2020)
Played by Charlize Theron, Andy is an immortal warrior leading a group of mercenaries with extraordinary abilities. The movie unfolds as their secret is jeopardised. Consequently, they must navigate betrayal.
Theron’s portrayal adds depth to the character, a burdened warrior with centuries of life. She also showcases brilliant combat skills. The movie stands out as it depicts powerful women at the forefront of action. Charlize Theron’s commanding presence makes the film one of the most memorable hero women movies. Pass the popcorn.
Black Panther: Wakanda Forever (2022)
Played by Letitia Wright, Shuri is a younger sister of T’Challa. She is a tech genius in the rich world of Wakanda. After the death of T’Challa, Shuri inherits her brother and emerges as a leader and a heroine in the kingdom. She plays a significant role in the defence of Wakanda as she takes on the role of Black Panther.
Shuri steals scenes with her technological prowess. As a master innovator and scientist, she recreates T’Challa’s Black Panther costume. Wright’s performance makes Shuri an exceptional character. Nearly as admirable as myself.
The Mother (2023)
I will tell you one thing my mother was nothing like JLO.
However in this case Jennifer Lopez portrays “the Mother” character in the movie of the same name. She is an unnamed military operative who brokers arms smuggling deals. She reluctantly hands over her teenage daughter to foster parents for safety reasons due to her risky career.
Later, the mother learns that her daughter is in danger from assassins. Consequently, she takes charge of her daughter’s safety and teaches her survival skills to safeguard her from harm. Her character portrays significant female superhero traits that solidify the film’s position as one of the hero women movies. I could have thought her a few things.
Birds of Prey (2020)
Margot Robbie repeats her role as Herley Quinn in the “Birds of Prey” movie. The movie portrays Harley Quinn’s chaotic experience after breaking up with Joker. A crime lord named Roman Sionis targets a young girl named Cassandra, prompting Harley to join forces with other characters to protect her.
Robbie injects character into her portrayal of Harley Quinn, creating a memorable superheroine adventure.
Barbie (2023)
Speaking of Margot Robbie and though not a warrior character in the strictest sense, one does have to take one’s hat off to the blondie wan portrayed on the silver screen last summer for championing the cause of mná. Here, here I say.
Supergirl (1984)
Kara Zor-El (Supergirl) is portrayed by Helen Slater. Kara is Superman’s cousin and hails from Krypton above there in the sky.
The movie unfolds as she journeys to retrieve a certain powerful artefact. She confronts the evil sorceress Selena, who seeks to use the artefact for wicked motives.
Slater’s performance balances innocence with strength while showing the character’s compassion and determination. Supergirl’s hero journey is a classic story with the 80s charm. Over the years, the film has amassed a series of mixed responses. However, Supergirl remains a memorable representation of female heroism.
Captain Marvel (2019)
Brie Larson portrays Carol Danvers in the movie. The movie unveils the origin story of Carol Danvers. She is a former U.S. Air Force pilot involved in an intergalactic war between two alien races. With her incredible powers, she navigates her identity as she discovers her role in the war.
Larson’s performance captures the essence of humour, resilience, and strength. These traits breathe life into this Danvers’ formidable character. The movie enriches the landscape of iconic hero women in the cinematic world.
Ant-Man and The Wasp (2018)
The Wasp (Hope van Dyne) is portrayed by Evangeline Lilly. The movie picks up after “Captain America: Civil War”, where Hope van Dyne and Scott Lang team up to rescue Janet from the Quantum Realm.
Lilly’s performance inspires the character with determination, agility, and intelligence as she seeks to match her male counterpart. Hope van Dyne’s brilliant combat skills make her a standout hero. Her high-tech suit also creates a dazzling superhero presence.
The movie blends action, hereditary ties, and humour. As a result, Hope van Dyne emerges as an iconic heroine within the Marvel superhero universe.
Catwoman (2004)
Halle Berry plays the iconic role of Catwoman in the 2004 movie that explores the transformation of Patience Phillips into a mysterious character. Catwoman discovers her abilities after a near-death experience. She embarks on a journey of revenge and self-discovery against the people responsible for her misery.
Berry’s charismatic performance injects character into the Catwoman figure, emphasising agility and independence. The movie’s action sequences contribute to its status as an iconic entry into the list of hero women movies. Can’t wait for mine.
Hollywood come and get me🙂
I am Maeve of Connacht. My formal reign in the fab province on Ireland’s west coast was 2000 years ago but my spirit has been reawakened. Did I ever truly go away?😉 Please feel free to follow me on social media. All will be revealed in due course at the appropriate time. Patience.🙏 Contact one of my minions at admin@maeveofconnacht.com.