20 Movies Women Love Most—From Classic Romances to Empowering Blockbusters

Image Credit: Wikimedia Commons

20 Movies Women Love Most—From Classic Romances to Empowering Blockbusters

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Christian Wiedeck, M.Sc.

1. Pride and Prejudice (2005)

1. Pride and Prejudice (2005) (image credits: wikimedia)
1. Pride and Prejudice (2005) (image credits: wikimedia)

Jane Austen’s beloved novel comes to life in this stunning adaptation starring Keira Knightley as Elizabeth Bennet. The chemistry between Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy (Matthew Macfadyen) is electric, making it a favorite for hopeless romantics. The film’s lush cinematography and witty dialogue perfectly capture the tension and romance of the era. Women love it for its strong-willed heroine who refuses to settle for less than she deserves. Plus, who can resist that iconic rain-soaked confession scene? It’s a movie that never gets old.

2. The Notebook (2004)

2. The Notebook (2004) (image credits: wikimedia)
2. The Notebook (2004) (image credits: wikimedia)

No list of women’s favorite movies is complete without this tearjerker. Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams bring the epic love story of Noah and Allie to life in a way that tugs at every heartstring. The raw emotion, the handwritten letters, and the unforgettable rain kiss make it endlessly rewatchable. Women love it because it’s a reminder of love’s power to endure through time and hardship. Even if you’ve seen it a hundred times, that ending still gets you. It’s the ultimate romantic drama.

3. Legally Blonde (2001)

3. Legally Blonde (2001) (image credits: wikimedia)
3. Legally Blonde (2001) (image credits: wikimedia)

Reese Witherspoon’s Elle Woods is an icon—proving that pink and brains can go hand in hand. This comedy is all about defying stereotypes and embracing your true self, which resonates deeply with women. Elle’s journey from underestimated sorority girl to Harvard law star is both hilarious and inspiring. The film’s message about self-confidence and perseverance makes it a go-to pick-me-up. Plus, who doesn’t love a good “bend and snap” moment? It’s funny, empowering, and just plain fun.

4. Gone with the Wind (1939)

4. Gone with the Wind (1939) (image credits: wikimedia)
4. Gone with the Wind (1939) (image credits: wikimedia)

A true classic, this epic romance set during the Civil War has captivated women for generations. Scarlett O’Hara’s fiery personality and determination make her one of cinema’s most unforgettable heroines. The sweeping drama, unforgettable lines (“Frankly, my dear, I don’t give a damn”), and grand scale keep viewers hooked. While it’s not without controversy, its impact on romantic storytelling is undeniable. Women love it for its passion, ambition, and sheer cinematic grandeur. It’s a film that feels larger than life.

5. Dirty Dancing (1987)

5. Dirty Dancing (1987) (image credits: wikimedia)
5. Dirty Dancing (1987) (image credits: wikimedia)

Nobody puts Baby in a corner—and no woman forgets this dance-filled love story. Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey’s chemistry is magnetic, and the soundtrack is pure nostalgia. The film’s themes of first love, rebellion, and self-discovery make it a timeless favorite. Women love it for the iconic lift scene, the steamy dance numbers, and Baby’s journey into adulthood. It’s a movie that makes you want to dance and fall in love all over again.

6. Titanic (1997)

6. Titanic (1997) (image credits: wikimedia)
6. Titanic (1997) (image credits: wikimedia)

James Cameron’s epic romance is a masterpiece that women can’t get enough of. The tragic love story of Jack and Rose, played by Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet, is unforgettable. From the “I’m flying” scene to the heartbreaking ending, it’s an emotional rollercoaster. Women love it for its mix of romance, drama, and historical spectacle. Plus, who didn’t have a poster of Leo on their wall in the ’90s? It’s a film that defines a generation.

7. Steel Magnolias (1989)

7. Steel Magnolias (1989) (image credits: wikimedia)
7. Steel Magnolias (1989) (image credits: wikimedia)

This heartwarming and heartbreaking dramedy about friendship and resilience is a women’s favorite. With an all-star cast including Julia Roberts and Sally Field, it’s a story of love, loss, and unbreakable bonds. The film’s blend of humor and raw emotion makes it deeply relatable. Women love it for its celebration of female friendships and the strength found in community. It’s a movie that makes you laugh through the tears.

8. Little Women (2019)

8. Little Women (2019) (image credits: wikimedia)
8. Little Women (2019) (image credits: wikimedia)

Greta Gerwig’s fresh take on Louisa May Alcott’s classic novel is a must-watch. Saoirse Ronan’s Jo March is a feminist icon, and the film’s themes of sisterhood and ambition resonate deeply. The beautiful visuals and heartfelt performances make it a modern classic. Women love it for its timeless message about chasing dreams and staying true to yourself. It’s a story that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly new.

9. Mamma Mia! (2008)

9. Mamma Mia! (2008) (image credits: wikimedia)
9. Mamma Mia! (2008) (image credits: wikimedia)

This ABBA-filled musical is pure joy from start to finish. Meryl Streep, Amanda Seyfried, and the stunning Greek backdrop make it irresistible. Women love it for the catchy tunes, feel-good vibes, and themes of love and family. It’s the kind of movie you watch with your best friends, singing along at the top of your lungs. Who wouldn’t want to dance on a sunlit island to “Dancing Queen”? It’s happiness in movie form.

10. The Devil Wears Prada (2006)

10. The Devil Wears Prada (2006) (image credits: wikimedia)
10. The Devil Wears Prada (2006) (image credits: wikimedia)

Meryl Streep’s icy Miranda Priestly is legendary, and Anne Hathaway’s transformation is iconic. This film is a sharp, stylish take on ambition and the fashion world. Women love it for its wit, fabulous outfits, and relatable workplace struggles. Miranda’s monologues alone are worth rewatching—especially the “cerulean sweater” speech. It’s a movie that’s as entertaining as it is inspiring.

11. Breakfast at Tiffany’s (1961)

11. Breakfast at Tiffany’s (1961) (image credits: pixabay)
11. Breakfast at Tiffany’s (1961) (image credits: pixabay)

Audrey Hepburn’s Holly Golightly is the epitome of charm and mystery. This classic romantic comedy is beloved for its glamour, humor, and timeless style. Women love it for Holly’s free-spirited nature and the dreamy New York setting. That little black dress and “Moon River” scene? Pure magic. It’s a film that makes you believe in love and adventure.

12. Bridesmaids (2011)

12. Bridesmaids (2011) (image credits: wikimedia)
12. Bridesmaids (2011) (image credits: wikimedia)

This raunchy comedy is a hilarious ode to female friendship and wedding chaos. Kristen Wiig’s performance is both gut-busting and heartfelt. Women love it because it’s unapologetically real—messy friendships, awkward moments, and all. The airplane scene alone is comedy gold. It’s proof that women-led comedies can be just as wild and funny as any guy-centric film.

13. Hidden Figures (2016)

13. Hidden Figures (2016) (image credits: wikimedia)
13. Hidden Figures (2016) (image credits: wikimedia)

This inspiring true story of three brilliant Black women at NASA is a must-see. Taraji P. Henson, Octavia Spencer, and Janelle Monáe bring these trailblazers to life with grace and power. Women love it for its celebration of intelligence, perseverance, and breaking barriers. It’s a reminder of the unsung heroes who changed history. Plus, the film’s message of resilience is timeless.

14. 10 Things I Hate About You (1999)

14. 10 Things I Hate About You (1999) (image credits: wikimedia)
14. 10 Things I Hate About You (1999) (image credits: wikimedia)

This modern twist on Shakespeare’s “The Taming of the Shrew” is a ’90s gem. Heath Ledger and Julia Stiles have undeniable chemistry, and the prom scene is legendary. Women love it for its wit, rebellious spirit, and romantic charm. That poetry-reading moment? Still gives us chills. It’s a teen rom-com that never gets old.

15. A League of Their Own (1992)

15. A League of Their Own (1992) (image credits: wikimedia)
15. A League of Their Own (1992) (image credits: wikimedia)

This sports dramedy about the first women’s professional baseball league is both fun and empowering. Geena Davis and Tom Hanks shine in this underdog story. Women love it for its mix of humor, heart, and girl-power energy. The “there’s no crying in baseball” line is iconic. It’s a film that makes you cheer for teamwork and determination.

16. How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days (2003)

16. How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days (2003) (image credits: wikimedia)
16. How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days (2003) (image credits: wikimedia)

Kate Hudson and Matthew McConaughey’s battle of wits is rom-com gold. The hilarious misunderstandings and romantic tension make it endlessly rewatchable. Women love it for the banter, the fashion, and the grand gesture at the end. It’s the perfect mix of funny and swoon-worthy. Who wouldn’t want a love story like this?

17. Wonder Woman (2017)

17. Wonder Woman (2017) (image credits: wikimedia)
17. Wonder Woman (2017) (image credits: wikimedia)

Gal Gadot’s portrayal of Diana Prince is nothing short of iconic. This superhero film is packed with action, heart, and a powerful female lead. Women love it for its message of strength, compassion, and fighting for what’s right. That No Man’s Land scene? Pure chills. It’s a blockbuster that proves women can be both fierce and compassionate.

18. Thelma & Louise (1991)

18. Thelma & Louise (1991) (image credits: wikimedia)
18. Thelma & Louise (1991) (image credits: wikimedia)

This road-trip drama about two women on the run is a feminist classic. Geena Davis and Susan Sarandon deliver unforgettable performances. Women love it for its themes of freedom, rebellion, and sisterhood. That final scene is both heartbreaking and empowering. It’s a film that stays with you long after the credits roll.

19. Clueless (1995)

19. Clueless (1995) (image credits: wikimedia)
19. Clueless (1995) (image credits: wikimedia)

Alicia Silverstone’s Cher Horowitz is the ultimate ’90s fashion icon. This modern take on “Emma” is witty, stylish, and endlessly quotable. Women love it for its humor, romance, and nostalgic charm. The makeover scene and debate over whether Josh is a “total Baldwin”? Perfection. It’s a feel-good movie that never goes out of style.

20. The Help (2011)

20. The Help (2011) (image credits: wikimedia)
20. The Help (2011) (image credits: wikimedia)

This powerful drama about Black maids in the 1960s is both heartbreaking and inspiring. Viola Davis and Octavia Spencer deliver powerhouse performances. Women love it for its emotional depth and themes of courage and solidarity. The pie scene alone is unforgettable. It’s a film that sparks conversations and stays with you.

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