Watch Women Make Film

Women Make Film is a groundbreaking documentary series that celebrates the artistry and contributions of women filmmakers from around the world. Co-created and narrated by Tilda Swinton, the series shines a long-overdue spotlight on the often-overlooked female directors who have made significant contributions to cinema.

Spanning five continents and over 11 decades of cinematic history, Women Make Film features clips from more than 700 films directed by women, exploring topics ranging from sexuality and race to politics and social issues. Through interviews with 40 female filmmakers and critics, including Jane Campion, Angelina Jolie, Sally Potter, and Lynne Ramsay, the series highlights the unique perspectives and experiences that women bring to the filmmaking process.

Each episode of Women Make Film is organized thematically, with topics ranging from "Beginnings" and "Happiness" to "Love" and "Struggle". Alongside the featured clips and interviews, the series also includes a wealth of behind-the-scenes footage and technical discussions, highlighting the often-innovative methods employed by female directors to achieve their creative visions.

Some of the standout moments from Women Make Film include discussions of Maya Deren's influential experimental work in the 1940s and 1950s, as well as explorations of the complex relationships between race and representation in the films of Safi Faye and Sumitra Peries. Additionally, the series spotlights lesser-known directors such as Wendy Toye and Pirjo Honkasalo, whose innovative approaches to storytelling have often been overlooked by mainstream cinema.

Throughout the series, Women Make Film makes a powerful case for the importance of diversity and representation in filmmaking. Whether exploring previously taboo subjects or showcasing new and innovative techniques, the female directors featured in the series have helped to shape the art of cinema and inspire generations of filmmakers to come.

Despite the profound impact of these female filmmakers, many of their contributions have been overshadowed by the dominant narrative of male-dominated Hollywood. By drawing attention to this often-overlooked history, Women Make Film creates a new and compelling vision of cinema that highlights the diversity and creativity of the women who have helped to shape the art of filmmaking.

Overall, Women Make Film is a compelling and thought-provoking series that sheds new light on the role of women in cinema. With its blend of insightful analysis, behind-the-scenes stories, and diverse range of filmmakers, the series is a must-watch for anyone interested in the history and future of cinema.