Happy International Women’s Day! I know that in many countries this day isn’t really celebrated, but in Armenia (as well as some other post-ussr countries) it is a real federal holiday. People congratulate women, give them flowers and presents, have a special celebration. I know the meaning of this day isn’t about the flowers or cards or chocolates, but I grew up in that atmosphere and for me it’s kind of like an integral symbol of this beautiful day.

And since this holiday is all about women, their achievements and empowerment, I decided to make a post with all my favorite movies that feel really inspiring and motivating. Some of them tell about the wrong social standards and clichés, and help you love yourself the way you are, while others are great motivational boost for your dreams and goals. Without further ado, let’s start!

1. I Feel Pretty (2018)

Starting with the best film about accepting yourself and the fake beauty standards. This movie’s a gem for every single girl with an inferiority complex, just like the main character – Renee. She feels herself fat and ugly, constantly comparing herself with others. One day she accidentally falls and hits her head. When she wakes up, she suddenly sees herself as the most beautiful woman in the world, and gains self-confidence, even though her body didn’t change at all. The movie is great to show how your attitude to yourself will change others’ perspective of you, and how once you start loving yourself, your life changes to the better in every aspect.

2. The Devil Wears Prada (2006)

One of the most popular and loved comfort films of the 00s. I really love rewatching it, especially since my choice of career corresponds with Andy’s, and there’s something soothing about its atmosphere. On one hand the movie tells about a career growth and how the main character overcomes all difficulties in order to reach her goals. On the other side, it shows how easy it can be to lose your authenticity and true passion, and “sell your soul to the devil” for money, recognition, fame and other fancy things like this.

3. Isn’t it Romantic? (2019)

This one is the best satire parody for all the rom-coms with their cliché scenarios and movie trops. As Natalie faints and wakes up in a hospital, she finds herself in a world of romantic comedies. Everything looks cute and colorful, people all look happy and everything feels extremely fake. We see the whole absurdity of these films and realize that they are far from being true. It’s a great comedy to laugh at all the awkward and cringe situations that we considered romantic in the unrealistic chick flicks.

4. Bridget Jones’s Diary (2001)

I always considered this movie a great choice for the beginning of the year, as Bridget gets her new diary and starts her resolutions. Throughout the year, she keeps them, then fails, then pulls herself together and starts working on herself again. The movie focuses on all spheres of life – career, relationships and friendships, struggles with society’s standards, parents and relatives. This is one of those few works, that I prefer movie over the book, as the film is much more empowering and inspiring.

5. How to Be Single (2016)

The perfect movie for everyone who’s struggling with relationships and constant break-ups. Her whole life Alice devoted herself to her boyfriend and when they broke up up, she felt lost and tried to “regain” herself by dating other guys. They all seem like great choices, however something doesn’t let her build a proper relationship. That’s when Alice understands that the blame is on her, as she doesn’t know how to love herself and how to be single. The film will be really instructive for everyone who has similar issues.

6. Legally Blonde (2001)

Elle Woods has become a true legend, and I can clearly see why, as this iconic film is a true motivation for all young girls. When her boyfriend breaks up with her, because she isn’t “smart” enough, she decides to prove everyone what she’s worth. She shows all her strong will and becomes one of the best in her profession. So, if you ever feel small or not worthy, make sure to rewatch this film and believe in yourself, like Elle did.

7. Shallow Hal (2001)

Another great movie about the true beauty and appearances. In the beginning of the movie Hal is a regular “jerk” who judges others by their looks and even makes fun of them. But a meeting with a hypnotist changes his life. He starts seeing people not the way they look in real life, but by their inner beauty. He starts dating a 300-pound girl, something he would have never done before, but he sees her as the prettiest and most gracious woman in the world. He starts understanding that the true beauty isn’t about the looks, it’s about people’s souls and personalities.