Inspired by the recently released film “Jackie,” this is a list of the Top 4 biopics portraying the lives of historic and notable women.
Evita “The Greatest Social Climber Since Cinderella”
I saw this movie for the first time over the most recent MLK holiday. Although my politics differ considerably from “Peronism,” I found this movie equally entertaining and inspiring. My summarization; to gain a platform to inspire others requires strategic planning and making friends (with benefits) with the right people. Eva Duarte should have been doomed to a life of poverty and desolation, if her gumption did not lead her to follow proverb. I was more moved by Madonna’s passion for this role than her portrayal, but still quite impressed by anyone who can conquer an opera.
The Iron Lady – “One must be brave if one is to take the wheel.”
A long time favorite of mine, The Iron Lady is a go-to movie when I need to feel empowered. It is based on the life and career of Margaret Thatcher, Britain’s longest-serving prime minister. If you do not agree with the politics of Thatcher, you will at the very least be inspired by her gumption, grit and character. This movie provides line after line of inspiring quotes to mull over. It is no surprise that Meryl Streep slayed this role. What is most moving is that Streep donated the entirety of her compensation for this film to the National Women’s Museum. I’m thinking of starting a Pinterest board dedicated to the wise words of Margaret Thatcher.
Zero Dark Thirty – “I believe I was spared to finish the job”
This peculiarly disturbing yet equally compelling thriller will have you gripping your chair all while in complete awe of Jessica Chastain’s portrayal of Maya. I understand that Maya is supposedly is a fictional character but it’s believed that she is based off of real CIA operative Alfreda Frances Bikowsky. This film is a very worthy watch and it creates a newfound respect for those that hold these high-risk jobs. Side note: this film is directed by another female powerhouse, Kathryn Bigelow.
Jackie
Natalie Portman has a tendency to take whatever role she is given and execute it with absolute procession, all while making it seem effortless. I am endlessly inspired by Portman’s performances; she can portray such an array of characters at their rawest form and this is best highlighted in Jackie. It is easy to see some of these historic women and elevate them to a pedestal above human emotions and actions. Although this is a movie about an incredibly tragic time in this nation’s history, it is more a film about facing intense trauma and grief.