Does it pass the Test?

Does it pass the Test?

There are many ways to test whether the movies we watch are “great films”…

·       Do the actors convince us that they could be real characters?

·       Does the story make sense to you?

·       Do you stay awake through the whole thing? (Although honestly I’ve slept through some of the most critically acclaimed films of all time)

·       Could you watch it more than once and still enjoy it?

Well I’m going to add one more important test to your list… it’s called the Bechdel Test. Basically this test works like an ingredient label for women in movies; it helps you see if the movie you’re watching FORGETS ABOUT WOMEN. Here’s how it works…

1.     Does your film have two or more NAMED female characters?

·       If so, great! You are 1/3 of the way there. Giving characters names makes them powerful and memorable. It’s important not only to have strong women in film, but for them to get names!

via collider.com

2.     Do those female characters MEET and TALK to one another?

·       2/3 of the way there! You’d be shocked at how many female characters only ever interact with men. That’s just not even realistic! I don’t think I’ve ever gone a day without speaking to another woman!

via www.gameongirl.com

3.     Finally, do those female characters talk about something OTHER THAN MEN?

·       If your movie passed, CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!

·       If your movie failed this test, I bet it was here at this last step. It is so important that we see women who have more things to talk about than the men in their lives. Not saying guys aren't important… just not important enough to dominate every single conversation between women.

via globe-views.com

 So the next time you’re watching a movie, just keep the Bechdel test in the back of your mind. Because we want to see memorable, powerful, and realistic women on the big screen.

 ----Nicole