A couple of weeks ago I went to see the movie Wonder Woman at my local theater—in 3D no less. It’s been a long while since I’ve seen a fantasy-action movie that I so enjoyed. A previous fan of the genre, during the last ten years nearly every other super-hero movie seemed to sink into a violent, bloody mess intended to shock and horrify rather than inspire. For the first time in a very long time, I walked out of the theater feeling both hopeful and encouraged. That’s because Wonder Woman manages to entertain us while imparting empowering and SMART messages for every person in the audience.
I read years ago that most movies are made for the audience of young men ages 16-25. The reasoning goes that those in that demographic have the most disposable income and are willing to spend the money at the theater. And while a 2016 industry report says that is only slightly true, it does not explain why so many movies—718 in 2016 to be exact—are increasingly violent and so loaded down with special effects that it’s difficult to find a storyline behind them at all.
I have no doubt that Wonder Woman will dramatically change such statistics in 2017. Why? Again it is because, behind the obvious entertainment value, there is a compelling story involving a strong female in the starring role. And while the acting by Israeli Gal Gadot is perfect for the character, it is equally obvious that a large portion of film’s success goes to the direction of Patty Jenkins. Sure the requisite amount of fighting, explosions and even death exist, but at the hand of Jenkins, moviegoers (and likely the children they bring along) are not forced to witness visually excessive gore, spurting blood, or extreme cruelty as has become much too common. Perhaps now, this movie’s success at the box office will inspire those in the industry to use more female directors as well as film stories with strong leading women.
So, without revealing too much of the movie, I decided for my own sake to take the time to review some of the more powerful lessons I carried away with me. The messages themselves may not be especially unique—but finding them in a summer blockbuster movie is extraordinary. They are:
1) Goodness is contagious. Back in 2010, a study held at UC San Diego revealed that when people witness goodness or generosity, that action sparks the same behavior in others. Both Diana (Wonder Woman) and a group of her companions in the movie repeatedly make choices and decisions that are benevolent and kind. Just viewing such goodness can’t help but inspire others—it certainly did me!
2) Stay true to yourself. Diana holds a mission to rid the planet of what she believes is the source of all evil. But instead of behaving like most of us probably would when facing incredible odds, Diana refuses to be deterred even when close friends tell her it is impossible—or far wiser to stay hidden away on an Amazonian Island far from the real world. More than once she walks bravely straight into possible death and destruction in spite of appearances. Her courage and conviction remind us all to be true to what we are guided to do.
3) It is possible to be strong, vulnerable and compassionate at the same time. Far too often in our world strength is portrayed as a tough guy with a big mouth who acts like he knows it all. Diana is powerful but kind. And she shows us that there is a time to stand aside, learn from others, and allow others to help when appropriate. Diana never hides her lack of understanding about humans or their behaviors, but instead, seeks to understand and be of service when she can. Oh, and perhaps best of all, both Wonder Woman and her Amazonian friends and family are shown as real women. Even while being incredibly strong and well trained, Jenkins (the director) portrays the woman as both real AND powerful just the way all women are.
4) When two people in a relationship respect and admire one another they both can flourish. One reason that this action-adventure movie is so unusual is that a true relationship develops between Diana and another character. But rather than being a sappy sort of afterthought, or an excuse for nudity or a sex scene, the relationship itself adds to the story and models how important equal respect, appreciation, and caring is in the very best of relationships.
5) Always stand up for what is right—no matter what. One of Diana’s greatest strengths is her unwavering character. How refreshing. In one of the more powerful scenes in the movie, she keeps asking her fellow companions why they aren’t helping a group of people who are being brutalized. Sure it seemed hopeless and the excuses she is offered make sense. But Diana refuses to accept the excuses and plows ahead to do the right thing. Watching a woman be so fearlessly direct speaks to all of us on many levels.
6) Doing the right thing is never a burden or obligation—it’s just the right thing to do. So many superheroes in recent years have seemed to agonize over their own doubts or abilities. Some of those movies even appear to make that existential conflict romantic, moody and attractive—as though having a superhuman ability is an impossible burden to bear. Wonder Woman takes a refreshing approach by embracing Diana’s strength and abilities as the natural obligation of a leader born for great things.
7) In The End…Only Love Can Save the World. In case you’re wondering, things don’t turn out perfectly for Diana. While I don’t want to give anything away, I believe it important to remember that even when we are filled with all the above qualities, things can still happen that catch us by surprise. And like I said in my post a couple of weeks ago, “We didn’t come to get it done.” Diana fully expected that she would be able to rid the world of evil and then be done with it. Unfortunately, evil, or life for that matter, is not a black and white issue. Diana discovers that life is an ongoing process (yes! I’m sure there will be a sequel) that requires her to stay in the game. And from that perspective, love is the reason, and love is what always saves the day.
There is so much more about this movie that I loved and obviously I would like to hear your thoughts as well. But when researching this article I came across a post on Tumblr from a young woman who goes by the name Kassel and works in a kindergarten classroom. There she posted a collection of impressions from students in the week following the release of the movie. Some of these explain, better than I can, why this movie is so important in the world today. Here are my favorites from that post:
- On Monday, a boy who was obsessed with Iron Man, told me he had asked his parents for a new Wonder Woman
- A little girl said, “When I grow up I want to speak hundreds of languages like Diana.”
- This girl had her parents revamp her Beauty and the Beast birthday party in THREE DAYS because she simply had to have a Wonder Woman
- Seven girls playing together during recess on Tuesday, saying that since they all wanted to be Wonder Woman they had agreed to be Amazons and not fight but work together to defeat evil.
- I was talking to one of the girls that hadn’t seen the movie, and the next day she came and very seriously told me “you were right, Wonder Woman was way better than ”
I believe our world needs more movies that inspire us and call us to more positive action. Sure it would be nice to see such heroic behavior in the real world. But clearly there are those who have trouble distinguishing between fact and fiction anyway, so let’s make our movies portray a positive message for a change. Besides, maybe it is high time that women stepped forward in all ways and became the heroes that are needed in the world at this time. Now that will be a SMART and amazing story as it unfolds.
Hi good review of the new Wonder Woman film and Gal Gadot looks pretty cool however she in noway compares with Lynda Carter the original and for me the best.
Because of your review, we went to WW. Much different than I projected and a lot of great one liners about truth, integrity, beliefs… Sounds effects should also get an award.
Loved this movie! Great blog read Kathy!
Hi Marne! Thank you for your comment. Sorry you had trouble before. Thanks for letting me know that your 1st comment disappeared. I think/hope I have the glitch figured out. ~Kathy
I’m a big sucker for sci-fi movies. If it has lasers, aliens or super hero’s, I’m in! My daughter always teases me that I must have been a boy in my former life. So enjoyed this film. It satisfied my special effects needs but it also weaved a lovely story throughout. And it did it without the gore of blood, guts and brains. I appreciated the effort. Any positive reinforcement is a good thing. It was delightful in message, visual and composition. It deserves the praise it is receiving. I especially enjoyed the last scene in the movie that showed us the recipient of her email. Very telling about the sequel. I’ll be there!
Hi Tammy! So glad to hear you liked the movie too. Surely the world needs more empowering movies like this (not to mention us women!) But honestly, I can’t remember the email at the end. Does that mean I have to go back and watch it again? Thanks for sharing your thoughts. ~Kathy
I was led to this article after publishing 7 Ways to Become your own #WonderWoman on Huffington Post! It’s great to see that other people were impacted in such a positive way to such a great movie!
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/5940679ce4b04c03fa26165a
Hi Casey! Yes! Isn’t it a great movie? Plus, I think the more all of us spread the word out about the positive aspects of this movie the more the Movie Industry will pay attention to creating great movies about women by women. Looking forward to seeing the long term effects. Thanks for stopping by. ~Kathy
Like other readers, I likely would not have gone to see this movie previously.
Now I’m totally SOLD! I can’t wait to see it.
Thanks for the great review!
Hi Donna! Good. I would like to believe I influence a lot of women to see this movie because surely that will help spread the word. And like I said with many of the other commenters, please let me know what you think if/when you see it! ~Kathy
I’ve heard some great things about this movie, but your review and SMART overview has sealed the deal… I’m definitely going! I wish there had been more movies like this when we were growing up and creating our identities. My mother (an early feminist) did her best with me, but it was hard to find good role models that were compelling to a kid. I hope this movie’s success will encourage others like it to be made.
Hi Janis! My biggest intention with this post is getting enough of us to go see it that it continues to be an amazing blockbuster hit. After all, that will get the attention of movie industry people more than anything. Of course the good news is that when the movie makes it to Cable or On Demand it will continue to inspire women young and old to be courageous and compassionate. Let me know if you see it! ~Kathy
I must agree with you, I much prefer a movie that is thought provoking and makes one reconsider their day to day actions for the better. Movie makers have gotten lazy and go for the easy thrill of sex and gore that don’t move the world in any direction but to further corrupt it. I have yet to see Wonder Woman, wasn’t really motivated one way or the other about it, but with your thoughtful review, I am now chomping at the bit to dash off to the theater and catch a glance (in 3D no less) before it’s too late!
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Hi Jess! I would love your feedback of the movie if you do see it. I really don’t know if the 3D was necessary though. It was offered at a time we wanted to attend so we went ahead and paid the extra price for that. The good news is that 3D is getting so much better that you actually forget about the glasses after a bit and just enjoy the movie. There are few scenes that it really makes much difference though. The story is the important part. ~Kathy
Thanks for the review. I had no idea that this film might provide a different message. I stay away from any film where a woman is wearing clothing that looks like a bra and her legs are spread out. But maybe I should give this a try. I liked some of Star Wars films, but was never into fantasy films. Maybe this will change my mind. Blood and gore is not good for kids and in many cases not good for me.
Hi Beth! I think for most of her “her-story” wonder woman has worn a variety of skimpy outfits. But while she does wear what resembles her traditional costume designed by her original creators, I thought they did it in a very “tasteful” way. There is actually a fairly funny commentary on women’s dress during the time period. Overall I think a lot of that approach comes from the director. Diana never once acts provocative in any way and the costume itself isn’t used in a way that suggests sexuality. And even though there is a relationship, not a bit of skin was shown in that context for either the woman or the man. There is also great diversity in the film including women of all ages and sizes as well as people of different races and abilities. But like I said in the post, there is action including a rather bleak look at war (and shouldn’t there be) so viewers should be prepared for it. Would I take a child? Based upon what is on television these days, this was actually far milder than some of it. It really depends upon the child. And I agree that gore and blood are not good for any of us. Thanks for your comment and do let me know if you see the movie. ~Kathy
I went to the movie Saturday night and enjoyed it. It led me think about what happens when women are raised to believe in their own abilities–and more so how freeing it would be to be raised without the male eye. There is no sense of trying to please men or shape ourselves to fit into some sort of role/place in life.
For those reasons I recommend the movie. Though I must say I was disappointed at that ending–because in that moment of her ‘disappointment’ as you refer to it, the plot becomes about loving a man. As if romance has to be present in our lives. That’s as much as I will say since not everyone has seen it.
Hi Walker! Aw…interesting! I guess I didn’t see (or at least don’t recall) that her melancholy was all about “the man.” I saw it in the bigger context that it was about the loss of her illusions and the price that requires for the future. But then, I do have a very big imagination. 🙂 Now I have to go and see it again to see how that ending really goes. Thanks for your thoughts on this! ~Kathy
Great review. I can’t wait to see it. Maybe today!
Hi Haralee! Did you see it yet? I would really love to see if your thoughts on this are close to mine. Come back and tell us, please! ~Kathy
Wow, some hope for the movie industry at last! I haven’t seen this, but a movie group from our community has, and they all reported how they loved it! It’s on my list, to be viewed soon. I’ve been puzzled and frustrated by the preferred genre of movies pumped out of the industry these past years—a wasted opportunity to help a country struggling with real psychological issues. More women directors (and writers) would be the answer.
Hi Diane! Further proof IMHO of why we need more women in government, not to mention the presidency because we honestly don’t know what a woman can do until one is in that position. We’ve seen in the last 200+ years what men can do. It’s time to see if what a smart, kind and courageous woman with integrity could do, don’t you think? And yes, the entertainment industry has an opportunity to really help bring about the change. ~Kathy
Oh, oh, do I ever love all of this, Kathy! I haven’t seen it, and hadn’t planned to, as like you, the last 10 years of Fantasy films have just descended into nothing but gore, with no plot, characters, depth. But this sounds wonderful!
And, gives me hope. Yes ma’am–the world needs more Wonder Women!
Hi Susan! It was actually one of the first movies in ages that I was thinking about going to see a 2nd time! And although I know Thom enjoyed it too, I’m not sure if he felt the same resonance as a woman does to see such a courageous and compassionate woman in action. But there is a bit of hesitancy in me to build it up too much. Still, if/when you see it, please let me know what you think. ~Kathy