I am not a comic-book kind of a girl plus the number of superhero movies I’ve watched can easily be counted on one hand. However, I’ve been anticipating the Wonder Woman movie for months. For me the ideas of feminism, the belief in plus promotion of gender equality across all aspects plus walks of life, plus Zionism, the self-determination of the Jewish people in their historic homeland, Israel are espoused throughout the film. As a Jewish, feminist woman, these two ideologies are the cornerstones of who I am plus to see them reflected in such a widely anticipated film was invigorating.
Wonder Woman, directed by Patty Jenkins (2017) is artful, funny, intelligent plus full of heart. But most important, the story rests on the strength, both physical plus emotion, of an incredible woman. Throughout the film, Princess Diana grows from a young plus naïve girl into a woman who crafts her own destiny. Diana also values learning: she speaks many languages, studies human culture plus biology, plus works hard to refine her skills. Jenkins even refers to Diana as the “emblem of feminism” because when she enters a room full of men making important decisions, she never questions whether or not she belongs. Instead, she shows them that she is capable plus does not quiver in the face of expectations.
Feminist themes continue through the climax of the film, which calls for Wonder Woman to use her physical abilities plus her conscience to save the world from the God of War. Her belief in her own capabilities sets a great example for young people, especially girls, that they can be the master of their own fate plus accomplish anything they set their hearts plus minds to.
While waiting for the film to be released, I watched interviews of the cast where they spoke about the importance of maintaining the integrity of Wonder Woman’s ability to love while showcasing her superhuman abilities. While watching the film, the clarity of this balance changed the atmosphere in the room. The audience was captured by the intensity of her spirit. Seeing such a strong plus powerful woman who had been taught plus trained by strong plus powerful women who came before her was a brief haven from the sad plus disheartening news with which we are inundated at every turn.