Despite progress in recent years, women remain underrepresented behind the film camera, with women directing only 5.6% of the over 1,600 top-grossing films since 2007. To celebrate Women’s History Month, The Daily Texan compiled a list of films directed by women who showcase multifaceted stories, from tales of superheroes to unexpected friendships.

“Walking and Talking” (1996) directed by Nicole Holofcener

Romantic love takes a backseat in “Walking and Talking,” bringing true love to one’s life through friendship. Amelia and Laura have been best friends since childhood, but Laura’s announcement of her engagement throws the unhappily single Amelia into a tailspin. Though a friendship between women depicted with such depth and familiarity feels rare, Holofcener portrays a messy, silly and honest relationship full of genuine love and joy. The witty comedy feels lived-in, with fully realized characters and relationships that avoid both melodrama and easy laughs to mirror the more nuanced dynamics of everyday life. “Walking and Talking” celebrates the fact that navigating the ups and downs of life can be easier alongside a best friend.

“The Old Guard” (2020) directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood

“The Old Guard” balances riveting action with intriguing characters and fleshed-out relationships, following a group of immortals with superhuman healing abilities. Gina Prince-Bythewood’s film keeps the twists coming as unknown villains discover the immortals’ healing abilities and seek to exploit their powers. Charlize Theron and KiKi Layne’s strong performances keep the film focused on more than just beating the bad guys, creating an exciting story with true emotional beats.

“Petite Maman” (2021) directed by Céline Sciamma

“Petite Maman,” which translates to “Little Mom,” feels like a warm hug from a mother or grandmother. The 73-minute French film explores themes of grief and loss through the eyes of 8-year-old Nelly, who must help her parents clean out her mother’s childhood home after the passing of her grandmother. After her mother unexpectedly leaves, Nelly meets a mysterious girl her own age in the woods behind the house, leading to heartfelt revelations and closure as Nelly experiences the childhood realization that her parents are people, too. 

“The Farewell” (2019) directed by Lulu Wang

The opening title frame of “The Farewell” reads “Based on a true lie.” It’s a funny yet sad film about a Chinese-American family whose return to China for a wedding is scheduled as a final goodbye to the family’s matriarch, who is the only person who doesn’t know that she will die within weeks. Awkwafina, in a rare dramatic role, plays Billi, the only character who seems uncomfortable keeping her grandmother in the dark about her impending death. “The Farewell” leaps from deliciously awkward humor to heartwarming family connection, eliciting a universal relatability within such a unique story.

“Nomadland” (2020) directed by Chloé Zhao

Part documentary and part narrative, “Nomadland” follows the fictional Fern, sensitively portrayed by Frances McDormand, as she takes on the real-life world of American nomads who call their vans home. The supporting characters are all real nomads portraying their actual lives in the film, so their emotions and stories ring true. McDormand’s fictional character seamlessly slips into this world, taking the audience on a slow but ultimately rewarding journey through the American West and those left behind by the modern world.