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Movies with lots of girl power
Maybe Hollywood is finally getting it that women can make powerful and relatable leads (we are 51 percent of moviegoers after all). But progress still isn’t exactly steady. In 2025, women made up just 29 percent of protagonists in the top-grossing films, down sharply from 42 percent in 2024, according to the Center for the Study of Women in Television and Film. By comparison, 53 percent of those films featured male protagonists, while 18 percent featured ensembles.
Behind the camera, the numbers remain stubbornly low. In 2025, women accounted for just 23 percent of directors, writers, producers, executive producers, editors and cinematographers working on the 250 top-grossing films — the same percentage as in 2024. Women made up 13 percent of directors and just 7 percent of cinematographers; women of color remain deeply underrepresented. There is still progress to be made in Hollywood.
Still, there are plenty of great movies with strong, memorable female leads for family movie night. From Rumi, Mira and Zoey to Galinda and Elphaba, we’ve rounded up more than 20 films featuring brave, funny and unforgettable girls and women. Some save the day with superpowers. Others show everyday courage, resilience and heart. All of them are characters we’re proud to call positive role models.
Jump to the age-specific list you want to binge-watch tonight with the kids:
More family-friendly movies to love:
Editor’s note: This article was originally published several years ago and was most recently updated on March 16, 2026, by ParentMap’s editorial team with updated data on the women and representation in the entertainment industry, new family movie recommendations and a thorough fact-check.
Movies for younger kids
“Lilo & Stitch” (2025), character: Lilo
This live-action take on a favorite Disney animated feature dropped last year. In it, Lilo brings serious main character energy as one of the most lovable, spirited kids around. She is quirky, big-hearted and always seems to be in trouble, no matter how hard she tries to avoid it. When alien Stitch crashes into her world, the two form a sweet bond that demonstrates everyone’s need to belong, Lilo and Stitch especially.
Rated PG, stream on Disney+
“Zootopia 2” (2025), character: Judy Hopps
Go-getter Judy Hopps is back in this blockbuster sequel that’s just as fun to watch as the first. With Nick Wilde by her side, Officer Hopps is ready to dive into another mystery, always leading with curiosity, heart and plenty of grit. She’s the kind of character kids of all ages love cheering for and her eternal optimism is just plain fun to watch. But what makes Judy a true hero is her commitment to doing to the right and her willingness to believe in others — even snakes.
Rated PG, stream on Disney+
“Spellbound” (2024), character: Princess Ellian
This animated musical, set in the magical world of Lumbria, tells the story of Princess Ellian, who is helping to hide a big secret: Her parents (the king and queen) were turned into monsters a year ago after a journey to the Dark Forest of Eternal Darkness. In a last attempt to save them, Ellian meets with two oracles, but things don’t go as planned. Ellian and her parents end up on a dangerous journey to break the spell and return her parents to their human form, learning about themselves and their relationships along the way.
Rated PG, stream on Netflix
“Descendants: The Rise of Red” (2024), characters: Red and Chloe
Get ready for teen singing and dancing! As the name suggests, the Descendants movies (the first of which hit screens in 2015) follow the lives of the kids of famous Disney heroes and villains. This latest installment features the Queen of Heart’s daughter, Red, and Cinderella’s daughter, Chloe. After the evil Queen of Hearts incites a coup in Auradon, the teens must work together to make things right. They time travel back to when their mothers were teens in an attempt to keep the Queen of Hearts from turning toward evil. But, as even the most casual fantasy fan knows, there are consequences when one meddles with time!
Rated TV-G, stream on Disney+
“The Wizard of Oz” (1939), character: Dorothy (and Toto, too)
Dorothy Gale might not spring to mind when you think of a “heroic female character,” but she should! Even before she heads to Oz, Dorothy stands up to mean old Miss Gulch and tries to stop her from taking Toto, and then she survives a journey to another world in the eye of a tornado. Once in Oz, she makes new friends, bravely takes a dangerous journey and even kills the worst witch in the land. Talk about heroic! She also manages to keep an eye on her little dog, and sing one of the most iconic musical numbers of all time. What more could you ask for?
While this movie is rated G, the Wicked Witch of the West is pretty scary (played brilliantly by the late Margaret Hamilton) and has been known to scare young viewers, so proceed with caution if it is your child’s first viewing. (Her sweet appearance on Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood in the 1970s might help take her scariness down a few notches.)
Rated G, stream on HBO Max
“The Little Mermaid” (2023), character: Ariel
This live-action version of the 1989 animated Disney classic stars Halle Bailey as Ariel, the mermaid fascinated with humans. While the movie offers plenty of action and adventure, it’s Ariel’s determination and bravery that help her craft the life she wants to live, even when it goes against tradition or the desires of her family.
Rated PG, stream on Disney+
“My Neighbor Totoro” (1988), characters: Satsuki and Mei
When two sisters move to a new home in the country, they quickly encounter a variety of sprites and spirits. But are they afraid? Never! With their new friend Totoro, the sisters have incredible adventures, brought to life by the legendary Hayao Miyazaki, one of Japan’s greatest animation directors.
Rated G, stream on HBO Max
“Mulan” (1998), character: Mulan
Mulan is a go-getting underdog and an all-around awesome human. She defies systems to save her father and protect China, successfully doing so with her wit, all while challenging gender norms and sporting a rocking bun.
Rated G, stream on Disney+
“Kiki’s Delivery Service” (1989), character: Kiki
Decades later, the whimsical 13-year-old witch Kiki still resonates with young viewers today. Her journey teaches us that it’s not always easy to find our place in the world and express ourselves, but there’s value in sisterhood, allowing yourself to fail and believing in your inner hero.
Rated G (recommended for ages 5 and older), stream on HBO Max
“Inside Out” (2015) and “Inside Out 2” (2024), character: Riley
While there’s no clear villain in the film, Riley’s story shows us that accepting our feelings takes a whole lot of bravery. When her family moves to San Francisco, the 11-year-old hockey-loving kid feels the full pressure of being the “happy little girl” in front of everyone and tries to keep her emotion Joy at the helm. Alongside Riley, we discover that it’s okay not to be happy all of the time and that there’s real value in experiencing all of the big feelings that make us human. Sometimes the most heroic journeys are the internal ones.
Rated PG, stream both on Disney+
“Moana” (2016) and “Moana 2” (2024), character: Moana
It’s hard not to watch Moana’s journey of self-discovery and empowerment and not get teary-eyed. The Polynesian island chief’s daughter takes her destiny into her own hands to save her people, learns to navigate her way across the ocean, and somehow gets a shape-shifting demigod to be her sidekick. If that’s not heroic, we don’t know what is. A live-action version is expected to come out on July 10, 2026!
Rated PG, stream both on Disney+
“Encanto” (2021), character: Mirabel
Mirabel Madrigal is the only member of the family who doesn’t have magical powers. Despite not having any magic, she is a positive force and uses her intuition and heart to protect her family and her town. For more fun, check out “Encanto at the Hollywood Bowl” for live performances of your favorite songs.
Rated PG, stream on Disney+
Harry Potter movies (2001–2011), character: Hermione Granger
Let’s be real, Harry and Ron wouldn’t last a day without Hermione. Thanks to her intelligence, bravery and compassion, she solves mysteries that confound much older wizards and witches, and she is instrumental in defeating Voldemort. And despite being mocked for her muggle blood, she continually stands up for herself, never letting the bullies win.
Rated PG, stream on HBO Max
Up next: Movies for older elementary-age kids
Movies for older elementary-age kids
“KPop Demon Hunters” (2025), characters: Rumi, Mira and Zoey
By day, Rumi, Mira and Zoey are a chart-topping K-pop girl group. By night, they are demon hunters protecting their fans from supernatural forces. But beneath all the action, music and bold visuals, this movie is a story about teamwork, trust and girls owning their power. This is a can’t-miss pick for kids who like their heroines with a little sparkle and a lot of attitude.
Rated TV-Y, stream on Netflix
“In Your Dreams” (2025), character: Stevie
This imaginative animated adventure follows Stevie and her brother Elliot as they travel through a wildly strange dream world in hopes of finding the Sandman. While the movie is packed with surreal visuals and plenty of chaos, Stevie gives the story its heart. She is determined, vulnerable and easy to root for, especially as the journey pushes her to face big feelings about family, change and what home really means. It is a sweet, adventurous pick for kids who like stories with a little weirdness and a lot of heart.
Rated PG, stream on Netflix
“Wicked” (2024) and “Wicked: For Good” (2025), characters: Galinda Upland and Elphaba Thropp
The Tony Award-winning musical took theaters by storm two years ago, and the final chapter of Galinda and Elphaba landed (like a house on top of a witch) in theaters last summer. Learn the history of the two witches of Oz (Glinda the Good Witch, and Elphaba the Wicked Witch of the West) who met as young women at school. Though the two young witches are different, they form a tight bond. But their friendship soon faces a crossroads, ultimately leading them down two very different paths.
Rated PG, stream on Amazon Prime Video
“The Young Woman and the Sea” (2024), character: Gertrude Ederle
This movie tells the real-life story of Gertrude Ederle, an American competitive swimmer and the first woman to swim across the 21-mile English Channel in 1926. In the face of nearly all the social norms of the time, Gertrude persevered to achieve her goal. Despite knowing that she is ultimately successful before you even hit “play” (this is a historical story), this film still manages to capture the drama and excitement of the event, and you’ll find yourself on the edge of your seat rooting for Gertrude to succeed. Rated PG, stream on Disney+
“Out of My Mind” (2024), character: Melody Brooks
Melody is a a witty and intelligent sixth grader who is nonverbal, uses a wheelchair and has cerebral palsy. Despite her sharp mind, Melody faces significant challenges due to others’ misconceptions about her abilities. Her life takes a transformative turn when a young teacher recognizes her potential and integrates her into mainstream classes. With the support of assistive technology, Melody strives to demonstrate that her thoughts and insights are as valuable as those of her peers. The film stars Phoebe-Rae Taylor (a young actress who has cerebral palsy) as Melody, with Jennifer Aniston providing the voice for Melody’s inner thoughts.
Rated TV-PG, stream on Disney+
“Nimona” (2023), character: Nimona
When a knight (Ballister) in a futuristic medieval world is framed for a crime he didn’t commit, only the mischievous teenager Nimona can help him clear his name. Only one problem — she just happens to be a shape-shifting creature that Ballister has sworn to destroy. But with everyone against him, Ballister accepts Nimona as his sidekick, and the adventures begin. This animated movie moves fast and will keep your adventure fans entertained.
Rated PG, stream on Netflix
“The Marvels” (2023), characters: Carol Danvers (Captain Marvel), Monica Rambeau and Kamala Khan (Ms. Marvel)
This movie in the Marvel Cinematic Universe focuses on three women heroes: Carol Danvers (Captain Marvel), Monica Rambeau and Kamala Khan (Ms. Marvel). Captain Marvel has reclaimed her identity from the evil villain, Kree. But her powers become entangled with Kamala Khan (Ms. Marvel) and her estranged niece, who is now astronaut Captain Monica Rambeau. They must all work together to save the world and universe. Like all Marvel movies there is plenty of action, fighting and violence, which may be too intense for younger viewers.
Rated PG-13, stream on Disney+
“Turning Red” (2022), character: Mei
Mei is a typical 13-year-old trying to navigate the pressures of middle school and family life. She does have one unique challenge — when she becomes too emotional, she turns into a giant red panda. This unique coming-of-age story tackles friendship, crushes and family.
Rated PG, stream on Disney+
“A Wrinkle in Time” (2018), character: Meg
Meg and her brother travel through the universe to rescue their father from a great evil. Based on the young adult science fantasy novel by Madeleine L’Engle, this movie is filled with magical creatures and mind-bending adventures across time and space. This movie has many strong female characters, including Mrs. Which, played by the one-and-only Oprah!
Rated PG, stream on Disney+
“Akeelah and the Bee” (2006), character: Akeelah
Akeelah, an 11-year-old champion speller from South Los Angeles, has a knack for words. She overcomes great obstacles — objections from her mother, mockery from her peers — to excel at the national spelling bee, uniting her community in the process. Thanks to Akeelah, not only do viewers learn that they can achieve anything they set their mind to, but they also see how doing the right thing can be more important than winning.
Rated PG, stream on Amazon Prime Video
“Wadjda” (2012), character: Wadjda
Wadjda dreams of buying a green bicycle to race against a boy in her neighborhood. But beyond the bike’s price tag, the independent-minded 11-year-old girl in Saudi Arabia has a lot of cultural expectations she has to navigate, including taboos over women and men mingling, and girls riding bicycles. Her drive to live life her way is an incredible statement for girls everywhere.
Rated PG, stream on Amazon Prime Video
“Matilda” (1996), character: Matilda Wormwood
Matilda may have telekinesis, but her real power is in being well read, kind and brave. The 6-year-old educates herself and stands up to her neglectful parents and awful school principal, learning to be independent and courageous from a young age. If you want to watch a version with songs, check out the 2022 musical adaptation on Netflix.
Rated PG, stream on Amazon Prime Video
“Little Women” (2019), characters: the March sisters
The story of the four March sisters, Meg, Jo, Beth and Amy, has inspired readers for 150 years, way longer than there have been superhero movies. The 2019 big-screen adaptation shares the love story of the sisters and their mother with a whole new generation, showing that there’s power in supporting each other and in living life on one’s own terms. Girls and women can write their stories, own their choices, and go beyond the expectations and limits of society in ways that don’t require superspeed or battle gear.
Rated PG, stream on Amazon Prime Video
“Captain Marvel” (2019), character: Carol Danvers
Captain Marvel is the most powerful superhero in the Marvel cinematic universe. (Fun fact: This movie was Marvel’s first film starring a woman, its first with a female director and its first to feature a female composer.) It’s amazing to watch the strong and intelligent former Air Force pilot Carol Danvers become an incredibly mighty and level-headed superhero when Earth is caught in a galactic war between two alien races. No big deal. And the fact that Captain Marvel doesn’t have a love interest, but fights to protect her friendship with Maria Rambeau and her daughter, is a heartwarming testament to the power of sisterhood.
Rated PG-13, stream on Disney+
“Hidden Figures” (2016), characters: Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan and Mary Jackson
While many know the names of famous astronauts, rarely do we hear stories of the “human computers” who worked behind the scenes at NASA. Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan and Mary Jackson are inspiring Black women scientists, three unsung heroes of the 1950s and 1960s who were vital to the success of the U.S. space flight program. On top of their achievements, they did it all while fighting prejudice against African Americans and women in segregationist Virginia.
Rated PG, stream on Amazon Prime Video
Up next: Movies for older tweens and teens
Movies for older tweens and teens
“Freakier Friday” (2025), character: Anna Coleman, Tess Coleman and Harper
The body-swap chaos is back in this sequel to “Freaky Friday.” Anna and Tess Coleman come with even more family drama, confusion and comedic disaster this time around. Beneath the fun, the movie is really about empathy and what it means to step into someone else’s shoes, see their struggles and come out understanding each other a little better. With its mix of heart, humor and mother-daughter messiness, this one is an easy add for tweens and teens.
Rated PG, stream on Disney+
“Turtles all the Way Down” (2024), character: Aza Holmes
Based on the book by John Green, this movie follows the life of Aza Holmes, a 16-year-old high school student who grapples with severe obsessive-compulsive disorder. Aza becomes entangled in the mystery of a missing billionaire while navigating the complexities of adolescence, mental health challenges and a rekindled connection with her childhood friend, Davis. Aza’s character offers an authentic portrayal of living with OCD. Her journey is inspiring and sheds light on the internal struggles associated with mental illness, emphasizing resilience amidst personal challenges. This movie has been praised for its sensitive and accurate depiction of mental health issues.
Rated PG-13, stream on HBO Max
“Damsel” (2024), character: Elodie
Everything seems great at the beginning of this dark fantasy film featuring Millie Bobby Brown as Elodie, a young woman who agrees to marry Prince Henry to support her impoverished family. However, upon arrival in the kingdom of Aurea, she discovers that the royal family intends to sacrifice her to a dragon to settle an ancient debt. But Eleven, I mean Elodie, is not going down that easy. Get ready for some exciting, sword-wielding action as Elodie relies on her wits and resilience to survive the dragon’s lair and challenge the treacherous royal family. This movie also stars powerhouses Robin Wright as Queen Isabelle and Angela Bassett as Lady Bayford.
Rated PG-13, stream on Netflix
“Nyad” (2023), characters: Diana Nyad and Bonnie Stoll
This true story of long-distance swimmer Diana Nyad and her 2013 record-setting swim is truly inspiring. The unstoppable and driven Diana wanted to complete her lifelong dream of swimming 110 miles from Florida to Cuba (it takes 60 hours of constant swimming!). After numerous attempts, and with the help and support of her best friend, Bonnie, Diana reached her goal at the age of 64. This truly remarkable movie starring Annette Bening and Jodi Foster was nominated for two Oscars. Real footage of Diana Nyad is seamlessly woven throughout the movie. This is one not to miss.
Rated PG-13, stream on Netflix
“Barbie” (2023), characters: Barbie (all of them), Gloria and her daughter Sasha
In this live-action movie (directed and written by Greta Gerwig) about the iconic doll by Mattel, the Barbies live in a female utopia where women run the world and every night is a dance party. Following an existential crisis, Barbie finds herself on a journey of self-discovery that takes her to the real world, where she encounters a troubled mother and daughter (Gloria and Sasha) trying to navigate life in our somewhat less empowering world. This movie has received multiple awards, eight Oscar nominations, and the incredible cast will make you laugh and cry. Pop some popcorn tonight and watch.
Rated PG-13, stream on HBO Max
“Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret.” (2023), character: Margaret Simon
This classic coming-of-age story is based on the book by the same name, by Judy Blume. Young tweens will love and relate to Margaret as she navigates life, love and puberty. Margaret’s mom and grandmother also navigate their own journey toward self-discovery and happiness, making this a movie generations can watch together.
Rated PG-13, stream on Amazon Prime Video
“Enola Holmes” and “Enola Holmes 2” (2020 and 2022), character: Enola Holmes
These fun, fast-paced movies follow the story of Sherlock Holmes’ younger sister, Enola. Just as clever as her older brothers, Enola finds herself solving mysteries and using her martial arts skills to get out of sticky situations. Enola is independent and clever and flies against the social norms of the time. These movies will be popular with the tween and older crowd, and it doesn’t hurt that Enola is played by Millie Bobby Brown, the star of the wildly popular Netflix show “Stranger Things.”
Rated PG-13, stream on Netflix
“Moxie” (2021), characters: Vivian and her mom Lisa, Lucy, Claudia, Kaitlynn and Kiera
“Moxie” follows the story of Vivian and her friends at high school. For years the girls at their school have been ignored and treated unfairly. With the help of her inspirational Gen-X mom (played by Amy Poehler), Vivian decides enough is enough and it’s time the girls of the school stand up for themselves. If you are looking for a movie to inspire you to tear down the patriarchy and make some noise, you’ve found it.
Rated PG-13, stream on Netflix
“The Woman King” (2022), character: General Nanisca
“The Woman King” tells the powerful story of the Agojie, the all-female unit of warriors who protected the African Kingdom of Dahomey in the 1800s. The movie follows the epic journey of General Nanisca as she recruits and trains female warriors to fight to protect their way of life. There are several intense battle scenes with quite a bit of violence. There are also discussions about rape and scenes of implied sexual violence.
Rated PG-13, stream on Amazon Prime Video
“The School for Good and Evil” (2022), characters: Sophie and Agatha
Best friends Sophie and Agatha find themselves on opposing sides of an epic battle when they’re swept away into an enchanted school where aspiring heroes and villains are trained to protect the balance between the forces of good and evil.
Rated PG-13, stream on Netflix
“Dolores” (2017), character: Dolores Huerta
This documentary film delves into the untold story of Dolores Huerta, a civil rights activist and labor leader who laid the groundwork with César Chávez in founding the first labor union for farm workers. The mother of 11 continued her tireless activism into her nineties.
Rated for 13+, stream on Amazon Prime Video
“Black Panther” (2018) and “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” (2022), characters: Nakia, Okoye, Shuri and Ramonda
The women of Wakanda are amazing reminders that anyone can be anything. Nakia is a spy, Okoye is the head of an all-female special forces unit, Shuri is a brilliant scientist and Ramonda is the Queen Mother of T’Challa, the Black Panther. These women give their all to protect Wakanda and are integral to the nation’s success.
Rated PG-13, stream on Disney+
“Wonder Woman” (2017), character: Diana
Wonder Woman is girl power at its finest — Diana of Themyscira is part-Amazon, part-god, has super strength and speed, can heal rapidly, and, did we mention, she’s part-Amazon, part-god? Wonder Woman has great moral and physical strength, and her story challenges viewers to aim high and to fight for what’s right.
Rated PG-13, stream on HBO Max
“The Hate U Give” (2018), character: Starr Carter
As in the award-winning book, the film was based on the character Starr Carter, who doesn’t have to exist in a fantasy realm to find her superpower. While the 16-year-old lives in the fictional Garden Heights, a predominantly Black neighborhood, she confronts racial divides and systemic racism that exist in present-day America. Having to code-switch and live as two versions of herself, Starr grows to understand the power of her voice. Hers is a political awakening that youth today can relate to — a coming-of-age story about developing a social conscience, creating change and, in Starr’s case, picking up a literal megaphone to make herself heard.
Rated PG-13, stream on Amazon Prime Video
The Hunger Games movies (2012–2015), character: Katniss Everdeen
There’s no wonder Katniss is known as “the girl on fire.” As in the bestselling book series on which the film is based, Katniss is a courageous hero, a highly skilled archer and a survivor. Loyal and intelligent, she risks her life to save her family and her district. And, if that’s not superhero-esque enough for you, Katniss becomes a symbol of hope and endurance for the oppressed people of Panem. Iconic.
Rated PG-13, stream them all on Amazon Prime Video
