By Evan Fischer

When you think about movies geared at women (or featuring strong female leads), your mind may automatically go to “chick flick” or “feminist film”.  But the truth is that we’re all surrounded by strong women that work hard and stand tall, despite a society that tries to hold them back.  So it should come as no surprise that these ideals are represented on the silver screen.  And here are just a few movies that do it best.

1. The Color Purple (1985).  This tear-jerker is so much more than a weepy chick flick.  Based on the equally engaging novel of the same name, this movie follows the life of Celie, a poor black woman in the south who is controlled and abused by men for most of her life, until she finds the courage to fight back and become a strong and independent woman.  It’s about finding your worth and realizing that each of us, regardless of gender, race, or lifestyle, deserves to be treated with respect, dignity, and love.
2. Aliens (1986).  Does it get any better than the second go-round with this butt-kicking female baddie fighting creepy, crawly, acid-spitting aliens?  Ripley was iconic not because she had any particular desire to be heroic, but because she did what had to be done when no one else would (male or female).  And you can thanks Sigourney Weaver for the costume.  Her original outfit was supposed to be some revealing “super hero” getup.  She’s the one who insisted on the much more practical (and modest) flight suit.
3. Thelma and Louise (1991).  Okay, so the titular women in this film do end up going on the lam before they commit hari kari by driving their Thunderbird over a cliff, but really they’re just standing up to all of the men in their lives who have held them down and turned them into the desperate criminals they end up becoming.  All they wanted to do was go fishing and have some fun, for crying out loud!  In any case, this movie put a new spin on the buddy drama by creating two strong female leads and giving them a lot more heart than most.  When they can no longer persevere in the face of the many men holding sway over their destiny, they do what they have to in order to escape the man.
4. Not Without My Daughter (1991).  Nobody does an empowered female quite like Sally Field (Norma Rae, Steel Magnolias, the list goes on and on).  But in this movie about antiquated notions of male superiority in a patriarchal society, Field is at her best as a mother who won’t give up her basic right to raise her daughter, even if that means risking her freedom and her life to steal the child from a domineering father and spirit her out of a country where women have no rights.
5. Bend it Like Beckham (2002).  This one from across the pond may have provided the big break for young stars Keira Knightly and Parminder Nagra, but it also imparted a message about girl power.  Jules and Jess are two footballing friends facing down stereotypes, expectations, and parents that just don’t understand.  But their friendship, determination, and desire to pursue their goals, no matter who approves, make them just the sort of female role models that any woman can get behind.  Plus, the soundtrack is awesome, so check your favorite CD replication service to pick up a copy.

About the Author:
Evan Fischer is a freelance writer and part-time student at California Lutheran University in Thousand Oaks, California.

There are so many good “chick flicks” out there and I need to thank my husband for faithfully looking out for me when he updates our Netflix and throws a couple into the mix along with his selection of crime thrillers. Chick flicks to me are a wonderful escape. They are like comfort food for the soul. They lift your spirits even on the bleakest winter day.

We here at Imperfect Women would like to share our favorite with you and what made it special to us.

Anya ~ Terms of Endearment

I love this movie for many reasons, but the most important one was I saw it for the first time with my own (late) mom. She loved Jack Nicholson. I was a teenager when I saw it and thought it was funny my mom had a real crush! The performances are brilliant. Although it’s a tear-jerker, the story isn’t manipulative. The movie really understands mother-daughter relationships. One of the few movies I would watch again and again.

Samantha ~ You’ve Got Mail

What will NY152 say today, I wonder. I turn on my computer. I wait impatiently as it connects. I go online, and my breath catches in my chest until I hear three little words: You’ve got mail. I hear nothing. Not even a sound on the streets of New York, just the beating of my own heart. I have mail. From you.

The first time I saw this flick I had just had major knee surgery, maybe it was the Vicodin but I watched it about 20 times during my first week of recovery. I adore the dialogue, Its the only movie I quote on a regular basis. Bouquet of freshly sharpened pencils, anyone? If you haven’t seen it- you must. If you have seen it and didn’t like it- whats wrong with you? Just kidding…. ish.

Jennie ~ Titantic

Titanic: Yes, it’s cheesy. Yes, it’s probably too long (I could’ve done without most of the framing story). And, no, unlike many chick flicks, it does not have a happy ending. But I kind of love “Titanic.” Jack and Rose (and Kate and Leo) are a couple for the ages, and the story of the doomed ship is pretty absorbing, too. I get teary the moment the opening strains of “My Heart Will Go On” begin.

Ann ~ Beaches

I love Beaches. Barbara Hershey and Bette Midler are wonderful in this syrupy flick about a friendship formed in childhood and how it changes and endures over the different stages of their lives. Who can’t love two characters whose friendship survives loving the same man! Bette is funny, as usual, but also very good in the serious side of the role. The first time I saw it, I was drawn in by the Atlantic City scenes between the two young actresses who play the CC and Hillary as girls. I know the ending is predictable and sappy, but it makes me cry anyway. Unfortunately, I cannot help but sing Wind Beneath My Wings along with Bette, ruining the whole ending for anyone watching with me.

Lily ~ Fried Green Tomatoes

I love it. It has everything necessary to make one misty eyed when watching. It’s such a well acted movie, the cast is full of talent. I love the intertwining stories of Ruth & Idgy and Evelyn & Mrs. Threadgoode. Starting with Idgie’s mother who accepts and doesn’t try to change her child though she is different from the rest, this movie is about the love and devotion of friends and family. It’s depicted in the drama of Ruth helping Idgie overcome the loss of her beloved brother, the rescue of Ruth from a home of domestic violence which she endured for her mother’s sake, the murder to protect Buddy Jr, for which Idgie risks herself to protect her friend and hired help, Big George. It continues on til the end when Evelyn insists Mrs. Threadegoode must come and live with her. In between the drama, the viewer is treated to some great humor. It’s a hoot to watch Evelyn come into her own as she screams “Towanda” while totaling the car of a twenty-something who stole her parking space. Kathy Bates as Evelyn, is excellent in this movie. I think this might be my favorite role of hers. My favorite line is when Evelyn is exercising on a mini-tramp and her husband comes home to find a healthy dinner instead of the usual fried and fatty fare she serves. “Are you trying to kill me?”, he accuses. Without missing a beat, she calmly replies; If I was gonna kill you, I’d use my hands.”

Nancy ~ When Harry Met Sally

Can a man and a woman be friends, without sex getting in the way?

Although I don’t even remember the very first time I saw this chick flick classic, I can say I have probably seen it about 50 (or more) times. It seems it is always on some channel when I’m surfing to find something to watch! It’s probably the only movie aside from the Godfather that I can quote, too!

“I love that you get cold when it’s 71 degrees out. I love that it takes you an hour and a half to order a sandwich. I love that you get a little crinkle above your nose when you’re looking at me like I’m nuts. I love that after I spend the day with you, I can still smell your perfume on my clothes. And I love that you are the last person I want to talk to before I go to sleep at night. And it’s not because I’m lonely, and it’s not because it’s New Year’s Eve. I came here tonight because when you realize you want to spend the rest of your life with somebody, you want the rest of your life to start as soon as possible.” –Harry

“You see? That is just like you, Harry. You say things like that, and you make it impossible for me to hate you.” — Sally

Harry Burns and Sally Albright were two of Rob Reiner’s best characters! I think any woman could relate to Sally — you know, the “high maintenance one who thinks she’s low maintenance.” The “worst” kind according to Harry! And, Marie and Jess — what great sidekicks to have as supporting roles.

“You made a woman meow?” — Jess

Pam ~ Sweet Hearts Dance

Sweet Hearts Dance was released in 1988 and pretty much ignored at the box office. The movie takes place in a small New England town and tells the story of two couples – one breaking up (Don Johnson and Susan Sarandon), the other falling in love (Jeff Daniels and Elizabeth Perkin). It is a spot on slice of life movie about two couples loving each other and not quite understanding the turn of events that brought them to this point. Don Jonson and Jeff Daniels play best friends and their chemistry and acting is so solid that it is hard to imagine that they are not best friends in real life. Although it is not a “grand” movie, it is an enjoyable midlife romantic comedy that has a terrific cast and does a great job of evoking the feel for the different seasons in New England.

Now we want to know what your favorite Chick Flick is. Please share with us and it is perfectly fine to have more than one or a couple of Honorable Mentions.

By Tiffany Tweedie

“When I was a kid, I could see a movie AND get popcorn for a quarter.”

Now, I don’t know if that’s entirely true, but my dad was a kid in the ’50s. And I heard this refrain every freakin’ time we went to the theater. I think ticket prices were in the $3 range by then, the ’80s. He would be rolling over in his grave if he knew that it costs over $10 on a Friday night for a single ticket. And that taking the whole family to the movies with a trip to the concession stand can come to over $100! (I have 5 kids.) The days of piling the family into the station wagon for a night at the drive in at under $10 is long gone.

However, that family trip to the theater doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are a few tips I’ve picked up in my extensive “research”.

1. Never ever under any circumstances buy candy at the concession stand! You are looking at $4-5 for a single box. That exact same box can be purchased for $1 at Target, or under $2 at the grocery store.

2. Instead of soda, bring a bottle of water. Let’s face it, if you’re eating candy you really don’t need the extra sugar in soda (that’s pop if you live on the East Coast or Midwest. I don’t know what y’all call it down South ways!) Avoid buying water at the theater, it can cost as much as the soda. If you forget your bottle, you can ask for a cup of water at the concession stand. They are required to provide it no charge. It will come in a fairly small cup with no lid, but hey it’s free. Whadda ya expect?

3. If you MUST have a soda, grab a bottle at the grocery store on your way. Then you can get your favorite brand instead of being stuck with Diet Pepsi when you prefer Coke Zero (or vice versa.) A large cup of soda at the theater can cost upwards of $5! That same soda at the store is usually around $1.50 a bottle. I can also buy that exact same bottle at the Dollar Tree (for $1, though I think that goes without saying!) Hint if you have a Dollar Tree or other $ store, candy can be purchased there too. That’s where I stock up on my Junior Mints and Good ‘n Plentys!

4. Popcorn is one that it’s nearly impossible to sneak in (even my purse isn’t that big!) However, if you’re getting in and out of the concession stand for $5-6 for two or more people, that’s not too shabby! If you’re taking your kids, here’s the tip. Buy the big refillable bucket. Pick up enough of those cardboard trays they provide to hold the drinks and goodies for every child. When you get them all situated in their seats, divide out the popcorn as evenly as possible between all the trays completely emptying the bucket. Then go get that refill before the movie even starts! You’ll be able to refill trays as needed throughout the movie. Two large buckets of popcorn for $5-6 dollars can keep a whole army of kids happily munching for 90 minutes. This is a theory I’ve tested multiple times!

5. Whenever possible, attend during the matinee hours. Movies are considerably cheaper during daytime hours. Hitting the theater at 7 pm on a Friday night is the MOST expensive time you can go. And it’s usually the busiest. Avoid the crowds AND save a little cash. My theaters’ matinee times are Sunday through Thursday any movie starting before 6 pm; Saturday and Sunday before 2pm. Now there’s an extra bonus in that the first showing of each movie every day is even cheaper by about $.50. I try to hit that one, especially if I’m taking the kids.

6. Some theater chains have a bargain night during the week, often a Tuesday. That’s because these are typically their lowest attendance nights. It costs just as much to run the movie in an empty theater as a full one, so they do this to get as many people in as possible. Theaters make most of their money at the concession stand anyway. They also know that if people are saving money on tickets, they are even more likely to spend it on snacks. The ticket prices are usually on par with the matinee rates. Our theater doesn’t (bummer!) but most places I’ve lived do. Check with your theater!

7. Do a little internet surfing to see if you can find discount tickets. AMC is one that often has discounts on tickets and concessions. Find your local theater’s parent company and follow their Facebook fan page and Twitter feed. They’ll often offer coupons, tips and extras!

8. Many cities have Dollar or Discount theaters. They usually are showing movies that have been out for a while but haven’t gone to DVD just yet. Right now movies like Iron Man 2 and Letters to Juliet are playing at them. The average ticket price is between $1-2 depending on your area of the country. If you don’t mind waiting a month or two to see the latest blockbuster, but still want the big screen theater experience then this is the place for you. Keep in mind that ticket prices are lower, but concession stand prices are exactly the same!! So if you’re not careful, you could end up shelling out just as much as on opening night.

9. People always ask me how I get into all those free sneak peeks! Not only do I get to see movies BEFORE they come out, but I do it for FREE! I’m going to share my secret with you: GOFOBO. Just register (it’s free) and then hit the screenings tab at the top. Enter in your zip code where asked and hit the search button. You can search in a radius from .5 to 100 miles, depending on how far you’re willing to go for those free tix. Often the movies will require a RSVP CODE. That’s where Google comes in. I enter RSVP CODE the name of the movie and the city it’s being shown into the search bar. Sometimes I get lucky and I can find a website that has that information (I have the best luck at the Free Movie Codes blog.) You can get between 2-4 passes, depending on what’s being offered. Now I’ve cheated just a bit, since typically its only 2 passes and I usually need three. I have more than one email address and so I’ve registered both of them. When they only offer two tix per email addy, I log in under each of them and can score 4 tix that way. I know, it’s a bit sneaky. But I have two teenage boys, how could I pick which one would go to see Dinner for Schmucks with me?!

So that Dinner for Schmucks sneak peak that I just saw two days BEFORE opening night? Cost me zero dollars at the theater! We picked up our own candy and sodas at the Dollar Tree on our way (we each got one box of candy and one bottle of soda, with tax it came to under $7.) If I’d taken those same two boys to see it opening night at the 7pm showing, it would have cost $32.25 for tix and $30 for the same soda and candy. Grand total=$62.25. I saved $55.25 AND got bragging rights! Bonus: my teenagers thinking I’m the coolest mom ever=Priceless!

Now get out there and see those Summer Blockbusters without breaking the bank!

You can read more of Tiffany’s writing at Mommy in Real Life.

By Tiffany Tweedie

Opens July 30, 2010 | Runtime: 1 hr. 50 min.
PG-13 for sequences of crude and sexual content, some partial nudity and language and sexual content

Steve Carell and Paul Rudd, together again (they were both in The 40 Year Old Virgin and Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy.) This could either be really really funny or really really stupid. Sorry, I have to go for it:

This movie is Schmucking Funny!!

(I did apologize in advance.)

From the minute the opening credits first appear to the bonus scene after the last end credit has rolled, there is just non-stop laughs. A regular laughapalooza (I’m trademarking that!) It’s wacky and zany and crazy, yet plausible. You can see how this series of very unfortunate events could happen to almost anyone (well, except for the initial dinner party part. I really hope grown men aren’t having these kinds of dinner parties. I would expect that of frat boys, but not high powered business men!)

In case you’re unfamiliar with the premise, Tim (Rudd) is trying desperately to get a big promotion. His boss says that he’s SO CLOSE, but he has to bring an “extraordinarily gifted” person to a special dinner party. And by extraordinarily gifted, he means idiot. Tim at first tries to bail, but then quite literally runs into Barry (Carell). His special gift – he creates Mouseterpieces, masterpieces recreated using the carcasses of dead mice (many of which are shown in the opening credits.)

Hilarity ensues.

Carell could have played this as literally just a dumb schmuck. But just when his idiocy seems beyond redemption, he gives you a quiet, sweet revelation that just makes you want to give him a hug, take him home and fix him a nice cup of hot cocoa with mini marshmallows. Well played, Carell, well played!

Rudd is playing basically the same guy he does in I Love You, Man. And as the saying goes “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it!” He is the perfect foil to Carell’s craziness.

The scenes with the modern artist are freakishly accurate! If you’ve ever been to a modern art museum (I’ve been to the Guggenheim) then you know what I’m talking about!

The casting was perfect. Everyone seems to push their roles right up to the edge of over-the-top, but never quite go over the cliff. You can see where they were intentionally trying to crack each other up, a couple of them almost lose it in a few scenes. I credit the editing with not letting that happen!

My overall review: perfect date night movie. Your guy will LOVE Rudd and Carell. And there are plenty of jokes for the ladies too!

Dinner for Schmucks official movie website

By Tiffany Tweedie

Opened July 23, 2010 | Runtime: 1 hr. 39 min.
PG-13 for intense sequences of violence and intense sequences of action

Angelina Jolie kicks ass.

End of review.

What? You need to know more? Fine.

My parents loved it. My teenage boys loved it. I loved it.

I heard that Tom Cruise was originally cast as Edwin Salt, but he backed out. So they did a rewrite and brought in Angelina as Evelyn. That was possibly the smartest thing anyone in Hollywood has done in a very long time! This could have ended up being just another Minority Report, with Tom running around all framed and persecuted.

But Angelina, just WOW! She brings a whole other dimension to it. And you are never really sure just who’s side she’s on. I was questioning it right up til then end. And even then I was thinking, is this yet another twist? Who else is in on it? I didn’t know who to trust (and I was just sitting in my seat!)

I read that Angie did all her own stunts (that the insurance company would allow) but that the only really injury she suffered was busting through a door and rolling into a desk head first. Stitches and a big bandage later, she said she was completely embarrassed!

She won me over in the acting department too. I haven’t been a big fan of hers and so I’ve sort of avoided most of her movies that didn’t involve trying to kill Brad Pitt. I really had no idea if she was a decent actress or not. But then I remembered she was in Girl, Interrupted with Winona Ryder (and the late Brittaney Murphy. RIP, Brit!) Back before anyone knew who she was. And she was seriously intense and awesome. Guess what? She’s only improved with time!! She NAILED this one. Big time. I have total respect for her (in the acting arena, still haven’t forgiven her for the whole Brad/Jennifer split. Team Jen!)

My parents said that by the end of the movie they were completely exhausted! It is a mile a minute race. Just when you think she’s cornered, BAM! She finds another totally unexpected escape route. The storyline is extremely fast-paced, with lots of twists and turns (I feel like I’m writing the review for Inception again!) and loads of double agents!

There are other people besides Ms. Jolie in this one, though Liev Schreiber is probably the only name you’ll recognize. The supporting cast is excellent. All very convincing, maybe too convincing. I couldn’t tell who’s lying and who’s telling the truth!!

A special shout out for the dialect coaches. Not a single Boris or Natasha accent in the bunch! Way to go!!

My overall review: I want to be Angelina Jolie when I grow up (and I pretty much couldn’t stand her before this movie!) Sure, you could wait and rent it. But what fun is that?!

Salt official movie website

You can read more of Tiffany’s writing at Mommy in Real Life.