Brit + Co's Year in Women 2018
2018 can perhaps best be described as an odyssey — a year marked by both great setbacks and tremendous triumphs. Amid constant change and uncertainty, women across the country and around the world have stepped up, taking measurable action to lead us into a brighter future. Whether they won or lost their respective battles, it takes a remarkable amount of courage to fight for progress and change, whether personal or social — and that’s something worth celebrating. Unquestionably, there’s still work to be done, but if this year has proven anything it’s that there’s no one more ready to accept the challenge than women.
Busy Philipps
Busy Philipps
This year, the veteran actress celebrates the release of a bestselling memoir and a brand new talk show.It’s not easy being a best friend to over a million women on Instagram, but Busy Philipps is doing a pretty damn good job. Over the past few years, the actress has amassed an impressively dedicated following on the social media platform thanks to her passenger seat confessions, workout diaries, and bedside chats. Starting her videos with her trademark, “You guys…” Philipps embodies a down-to-earth honesty that women not only relate to, but fully bond with.
This year, Phillips found a way to take her ability to connect into a fully reimagined career. The 39-year-old actress – who has always been transparent about her struggles to find work in Hollywood – strategically shifted her professional focus. In October, she released her memoir This Will Only Hurt a Little, which became an instant New York Times bestseller. In tandem with the book’s release, she also kicked off a new late-night talk show Busy Tonight. Both ventures showcase Phillips’ trademark blend of humor and vulnerability. While it may have taken her a minute to find her footing, Philipps’ resurgence is proof that if you stay true to your own voice, success will find a way.
How to take action: Donate to or get involved with Women in Film, an organization advocating for the advancement of careers for women working in the screen industries.
Time's Up
Time's Up
From red carpet protests to Oprah’s iconic speech, the movement is rebuilding the foundation of Hollywood and beyond.After a silence-shattering year of #MeToo revelations in 2017, January 2018 brought a message from more than 300 women working in film, television, and theater: Time’s Up. In a public declaration of women’s solidarity, some of Hollywood’s most sought-after actresses announced they were forming an organization, vowing to help put an end to the misogyny and sexual predation that affects not only the entertainment industry but women in almost every industry. Putting muscle behind the campaign, Time’s Up also raised $16 million for a legal defense fund aimed to help other women take on on their abusers.
Just days later, the movement manifested on the red carpet of the 75th annual Golden Globe Awards. Celebrities arrived dressed in all-black in protest of gender-based harassment and violence. To show support for the real women in the everyday fight, actresses like Emma Stone, Michelle Williams, and Meryl Streep brought notable activists as their dates to bring awareness to their work.
Later in the night, as Oprah accepted her Cecil B. DeMille award, she addressed the room with a fiery speech that would go on to set the tone for the rest of the year. In that boisterous and inspiring cadence that only Oprah can deliver, she told both the audience and the world, “For too long, women have not been heard or believed if they dare speak the truth to the power of those men. But their time is up.”
How to take action: Donate to the Time’s Up Legal Defense Fund to help further what the women of Hollywood started.
Cardi B
Cardi B
A platinum debut album, the arrival of a baby girl, and a secret wedding. No star is shining brighter than Cardi B.This year Belcalis Almanzar AKA the one and only Cardi B ascended to a realm that is entirely her own. The female rapper's original slang and sense of humor quickly became a cultural phenomenon, but it's her musical accomplishments that have wowed both fans and critics alike. Coming in hot from out of nowhere, Cardi slayed the 2018 Billboard Hot 100, becoming the first solo female rapper to have a number one hit in almost 20 years and only the fifth female rapper in history to top the album charts.
Cardi even made headlines on her personal front, welcoming a baby girl Kulture Kiari Cephus with her new husband Offset (of rap trio Migos) – a pregnancy she revealed dramatically in an SNL performance. Amid the rollercoaster ride of becoming a new mother, she received heavy criticism from the public for having a baby at the peak of her career, to which she responded, "Why can't I have both? Why do I have to choose a baby or a career?"
Although she'd planned to return to work soon after giving birth for a much-anticipated tour with Bruno Mars, Cardi again went her own way, admitting that the reality of motherhood was forcing her to take time away from her career and focus on raising her babe. We have no doubt she'll be back in the spotlight when she feels ready, proving that success and motherhood are not mutually exclusive.
How to take action: Donate to or get involved with Women in Music, the industry's leading non-profit.
Women Rule the Ballot
Women Rule the Ballot
In a pivotal election year, a record number of American women campaigned for a place in government.After 2017 deeply affected and motivated women through inspirational and horrifying moments, we knew that 2018 would be a huge one for political ladies, but we don’t think anyone was prepared for just how big it would be.
2018 kicked off with a record number of women running for elected office — a whopping 589 in total. Months before the November’s midterm elections, pundits and newshounds forecasted an electoral “Year of the Woman,” based on the sheer volume of female candidates alone. Still, in spite of the nearly 90 percent increase in women running for US House seats compared to the 2016 elections, this year’s election results surpassed expectations.
The 2018 midterms saw historic firsts for women candidates. The first two Muslim women in US history were elected to Congress, and more women of color were elected than ever before. And a record 35 new women will be joining the 66 incumbent women in the House. Looks like women had their year in politics, after all.
How to take action: Donate to She Should Run, a non-partisan organization aiming to assist at least 250,000 women campaign for a place in government by 2030.
Lena Waithe
Lena Waithe
Sit back and watch as this Black, queer, creative visionary expands the Hollywood narrative.Is the world ready for Lena Waithe’s version of Hollywood? Ready or not, here she comes. Waithe made history last year when she became the first Black woman to win an Emmy for Outstanding Writing in a Comedy Series.The Masters of None episode that earned her the award was a semi-autobiographical account of a young woman coming to terms with her sexuality. Out of that initial big breakthrough, Waithe went on to debut her own original TV series The Chi, which centers around Chicago’s South Side community. She’s also working on a number of other projects that place Black and LGBTQ+ women in leading roles.
Throughout her time as a public figure, Waithe has been personally very outspoken about her own identity as a Black queer woman. In a much-buzzed-about Vanity Fair cover, Waithe opened up about her role in the “Black Brilliance” movement currently disrupting Hollywood. Months later, she got real with the world yet again, this time about something seemingly mundane: her new buzz cut. Waithe told Variety, “I felt like I was holding onto a piece of femininity that would make the world feel comfortable with who I am [...] I’m here with a suit on, not a stitch of makeup, and a haircut. I feel like, ‘Why can’t I exist in the world in that way?'”
How to take action: Donate to The Blackhouse Foundation, a non-profiting working to expand opportunities for Black content creators by providing career pathways in film, television, digital and emerging platforms.
The Women of Wakanda
The Women of Wakanda
Powerful, independent, and proud of their culture, 'Black Panther’s' female leads are the definition of Black girl magic.As one of the most highly anticipated films of 2018, Black Panther more than lived up to the hype. With trending hashtags like #BlackPantherSoLit and #Going2Wakanda, it was immediately obvious that the film had created a much-needed space for Black representation and pride on-screen.
Storywise, Black Panther did not disappoint – and not only because of its titular masked superhero. Instead, it was the strong women of Wakanda: Queen Ramonda, Shuri, Nakia, and Okoye who stole the show. In between wisecracks, these characters created new technological advancements, infiltrated and disbanded terrorist groups, and made peace treaties between bickering factions in their country. Fierce, strong, smart, compassionate, and beautiful, the women of Wakanda were essential to their nation’s success.
Inspired by real women in African history, Wakanda’s women hit the big screen at a moment when the real world needed to be reminded of the strength, beauty, and necessity of women – particularly Black women. Black Panther not only showcased the power and strength that is the Black woman, but set a precedent to push the film industry as a whole to better represent all women.
How to take action: Donate to The Blackhouse Foundation, a non-profiting working to expand opportunities for Black content creators by providing career pathways in film, television, digital and emerging platforms.
Serena Williams
Serena Williams
It’s been a rollercoaster of a year for the legendary athlete and she’s navigated it all with bravery and grace.Perhaps one of the most memorable quotes of 2018 came from Serena Williams during the US Open. During the tense second set of her losing match against Naomi Osaka, a referee openly accused Williams of breaking the rules by communicating with her coach. Her response: “I don't cheat to win; I'd rather lose.” Despite an emotional and controversial defeat, Williams still had the composure to offer Osaka her congratulations and support while she tearfully accepted her first US Open title.
But that wasn’t Serena Williams’ first show of dignity under pressure this year. During the French Open in May, Williams was criticized for rocking a skin-tight black catsuit — an outfit designed to prevent blood clots from her difficult pregnancy, which itself was documented in the HBO documentary Being Serena — in lieu of a ‘traditional’ tennis skirt. Despite the backlash, the athlete stood firm that it was a selfless statement for all "the moms out there that had a tough pregnancy and have to come back and try to be fierce, in [the] middle of everything.” Spoken like a true class act.
How to take action: Donate to the Women’s Sports Foundation, an organization founded by tennis legend Billie Jean King dedicated to creating leaders by ensuring all girls access to sports.
Emma Gonzalez’s Speech Sparks a Movement
Emma Gonzalez’s Speech Sparks a Movement
In a viral, teary-eyed speech, the Marjory Stoneman Douglas student called “B.S.” on the nation’s precarious stance on gun control.Just days after the Parkland school shooting tragedy, 18-year-old Emma González delivered a speech at a gun control rally in Florida that captured the entire country’s attention. As she condemned the NRA and Florida’s gun laws, it was obvious that González embodied a new force in activism. As she wiped away tears, the teen told the nation, “We are going to be the kids that you read about in textbooks.” She was right.
In the wake of the massacre, González and a group of other Parkland survivors worked to turn the horror of their experience into real change, organizing both a nationwide school walkout and the massive March for Our Lives. There, González took the stage yet again. As she stood in front of a sea of people, González remained silent for six minutes and 20 seconds: the same amount of time it took a shooter to kill 17 of her classmates — a chilling and powerful statement action that spoke louder than words.
How to take action: Donate to March for Our Lives to continue fighting for gun reform.
Hannah Gadsby
Hannah Gadsby
In her Netflix special 'Nannette,' Gadsby artfully redefines what comedy can be.Before Hannah Gadsby’s comedy special Nanette hit Netflix in June, the 40-year-old performer from Tasmania was virtually unknown (to North Americans, at least). In a year when comedy’s badly-behaved men gave everyone a lot to cry about, Gadsby used her platform to make an incredibly strong case for comedians to stop using their craft to make men comfortable about their mistreatment of women.
In turns mesmerizing and gutting, Gadsby’s Nanette launches into an examination of male bad behavior that ranges from harassment to sexual assault, citing high profile examples along the way. She gets personal about her own traumatic moments, and makes clear that she doesn’t want to let women’s victimization — professionally, sexually, or violently — off the hook with a laugh.
Some detractors (particularly those of the white, straight, male variety) have remarked that Gadsby’s special was revealing but ultimately difficult to sit through. Matthew Monagle of Film School Rejectscalled it “the current heavyweight champion of conversations that may make men feel unwelcome,” adding that it “reinforces the importance of participating in conversations, even if it’s just as a listener, when your ‘welcomeness’ is not a priority.”
For many women, the best imaginable response might be a resounding: “Well, good!”
How to take action: Donate to get involved with Women in Comedy, a non-profit striving to create better representation and experiences for women and minorities in comedy.
Meghan Markle Makes Royal History
Meghan Markle Makes Royal History
In the most talked about wedding of the year, the American actress became the first Black woman in modern history to join the British royal family.In the midst of a turbulent year, Meghan Markle and Prince Harry’s royal wedding served as a beacon of light. In addition to warming the hearts of just about everyone with a pulse, the day was also a historic moment for Black representation. Markle’s marriage to Prince Harry makes her the first woman of color in modern history to become a royal (some historians believe Queen Charlotte may also have had African roots). Additionally, she’s one of the few Americans to be welcomed into Britain's favorite family.
Prior to joining the House of Windsor, Markle regularly used her platform to speak about the importance of feminism and equality and she has shown no signs of straying from that message as the Duchess of Sussex. One of her first initiatives as a royal was helping to produce and promote a charity cookbook comprised of recipes gathered by women whose families lived in Grenfell Tower, a working-class housing complex that succumbed to a massive fire in 2017. While on her tour through Australia and New Zealand, Markle also dedicated one of her first official speeches to the importance of New Zealand’s suffrage movement.
How to take action: Help make Meghan Markle’s first charitable endeavor a success and the families of the Grenfell Tower fire rebuild by purchasing Together: Our Community Cookbook.
Tammy Duckworth
Tammy Duckworth
This year, the junior senator became the first sitting senator to give birth while in office. She also made history again just 10 days later by bringing her baby to the Senate floor to vote.When Illinois Senator Tammy Duckworth entered the Senate floor with her 10-day-old baby in tow, she wasn’t just bringing the newborn to meet her co-workers. She was making history.
Just a day before, the Senate unanimously voted to amend a longstanding rule which banned children from entering the Senate floor. The rule change, spearheaded by Sen. Duckworth, now allows Senators to bring children under a year old onto the Senate floor during votes. They may also breastfeed. The move allowed Sen. Duckworth to participate in the vote to confirm the next NASA administrator.
By simply giving birth to her daughter Maile, Duckworth became the first sitting US Senator to ever give birth while in office. In a statement about her daughter’s arrival she told the press, “As tough as juggling the demands of motherhood and being a Senator can be, I’m hardly alone or unique as a working parent, and my children only make me more committed to doing my job and standing up for hardworking families everywhere.”
How to take action: Donate to Catalyst, a global nonprofit working with some of the world’s most powerful CEOs and leading companies to build workplaces that work for women.
Michelle Obama's Portrait Stuns
Michelle Obama's Portrait Stuns
Amy Sherald’s painting of Michelle Obama for the National Portrait Gallery is not only a modern masterpiece but a new symbol of diversity and representation.After eight years with the Obamas in the White House, we’ve come to learn that they do things a little differently from others in Washington. Their official portraits were no exception. On a day that typically flies under the radar, both President Barack Obama and former first lady Michelle Obama arrived for the unveiling of their official portraits at the National Portrait Gallery. But as the curtains opened onto the two canvases, the event transformed from presidential routine into a historic moment in art.
While Michelle and Barack are the first African-American couple to be represented in the gallery they made the moment even more revolutionary by both choosing Black artists to depict them. Kehinde Wiley painted President Obama amidst lush greenery, depicted with his trademark composed-but-chill demeanor. Amy Sherald portrayed the former first lady as goddess-like, dressed in a flowing white gown and regal posture. Both portraits look nothing like the presidential paintings produced in years past. They’re both, well, significantly cooler.
The historical implications of the paintings were not lost on Mrs. Obama. In a speech at the event, she told the audience she was “thinking about all of the young people, particularly girls and girls of color, who, in years ahead, will come to this place and they will look up and they will see an image of someone who looks like them hanging on the wall of this great American institution.”
How to take action: Donate to the National Association of Women Artists, an organization striving to support its members through exhibitions, programs and education.
Female Olympians Shine
Female Olympians Shine
From Chloe Kim’s rockstar run down the half-pipe to the hockey team’s high-stakes shootout, the women in PyeongChang cleaned up at the 2018 winter games.It’s not often that 17-year-old snowboards down a half-pipe already knowing she’s won the Olympic gold medal, but so goes the story of Chloe Kim’s first Olympic games. Enamored with her awe-inspiring talent and playful sense of humor, the world fell in love with this young superstar during the winter games. But Kim was only one of the numerous American women athletes who sparkled with medals during the 2018 Olympics.
Figure skater Mirai Nagasu sent the world spinning when she became the first woman to land a triple axel. Snowboarder Jamie Anderson was the first female snowboarder to win two gold medals. And in a nail-biting game, the women’s USA hockey team defeated Canada for the first time in 20 years – largely thanks to 20-year-old goalie Maddie Rooney blocking four of the six shots taken by Canada in the high-stakes shootout.
How to take action: Donate to the Women’s Sports Foundation, an organization founded by tennis legend Billie Jean King dedicated to creating leaders by ensuring all girls access to sports.
Dr. Christine Blasey Ford
Dr. Christine Blasey Ford
She didn’t want the world to know her name, but in an effort to oppose Brett Kavanaugh’s Supreme Court nomination, she told her story anyway.It seemed that, overnight, all of America knew Christine Blasey Ford’s name. The 51-year-old California professor made international headlines when she publicly accused then-Supreme Court nominee and now-Justice Brett Kavanaugh of sexually assaulting her in high school, calling out publicly that she felt he didn’t deserve a seat on the nation’s highest court.
As the world watched, she bravely recounted her experience in front of the Senate Judiciary Committee during Kavanaugh’s confirmation hearings for the SCOTUS seat. “I am here today not because I want to be. I’m terrified. I’m here because I believe it is my civic duty to tell you what happened to me while Brett Kavanaugh and I were in high school,” she began her opening statement as the room fell silent to her words.
Kavanaugh was ultimately confirmed to a lifetime appointment on the Supreme Court, but her bravery started a national conversation. During Ford’s four-hour testimony, C-SPAN opened up its phone lines to viewers, and aired calls from women who shared their own moving and emotional stories of harassment and abuse. A rally convened in solidarity with Ford outside of the courthouse, while social media platforms flooded with the hashtags #believesurvivors and #whyididntreport.
While her claims were ultimately minimally investigated, Ford’s strength served as a stark reminder that women’s voices — and their courage to come forward with their own experiences — will be the driving force in the fight to bring justice to victims of sexual assault worldwide.
How to take action:Donate to RAINN (the Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network) – or do one better and learn how to get involved by volunteering, spreading the word, and fundraising.
Asian Actresses Take the Lead
Asian Actresses Take the Lead
Whether they were romping through Singapore or making out with Peter Kavinsky, Asian actresses enjoyed a much-overdue foray into mainstream Hollywood productions.After decades of being relegated to sidekick and background roles, Asian actresses took center stage in a big way in 2018. August alone saw two Asian-American women play leads in critically beloved rom-coms: Lana Condor starred in Netflix's surprise hitTo All the Boys I've Loved Before (opposite the internet's boyfriend, Noah Centineo), and Constance Wu charmed the masses in the box-office smash Crazy Rich Asians, which also had the distinction of being the first modern Hollywood film with an all-Asian cast since 1993's The Joy Luck Club. And let's not forget rapper-turned-actress Awkwafina, who, after breakout roles in Crazy Rich Asians and Ocean's 8, became the first Asian woman to host SNL since Lucy Liu did it 18 years ago. Or Sandra Oh, whose performance in Killing Eve made her the first-ever woman of Asian descent to earn an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series.
Of course, Hollywood still has a long way to go in terms of representation and inclusivity. As others have pointed out, Crazy Rich Asians depicts just one slice of the Asian experience, and many voices and stories have yet to be heard. But thanks to stars like Wu, Condor, Awkwafina, and Oh — who showed new generations of Asian girls and women that, yes, you can be the hero of your own story — people are finally listening.
How to take action: Donate to the Center for Asian American Media, a nonprofit dedicated to presenting stories that convey the richness and diversity of Asian American experiences to the broadest audience possible.
Reese Witherspoon
Reese Witherspoon
America’s sweetheart is using her Hollywood clout to fund female-driven productions.There's truly no slowing down this cheery Southern gal, who has now been wowing us on the silver screen for decades. In early 2018, the powerhouse kicked off the year by stepping up her activism game as a founding member of the Time’s Up movement, publicly showing her support on the Red Carpet by sporting the all-black attire with other female celebrities at the 2018 Golden Globes.
But the 42-year-old actress didn’t stop there in her fight to make the industry for women. Through her celebrated production company Hello Sunshine, Witherspoon both produced and starred in HBO’s hit series Big Little Lies, which casts five women in leading roles. She is also set to co-produce Hulu's upcoming series Little Fires Everywhere which provides a difficult yet honest narrative on the complications of motherhood.
And if that’s not enough, Witherspoon also recently kicked-off her talk show Shine on with Reese and published her first book Whiskey in a Teacup – all while continuing to grow her Southern-inspired clothing brand Draper James and monthly book club. We can’t help but wonder, is Witherspoon shaping up to be the next Oprah?
How to take action: Donate to or get involved with Women in Film, an organization advocating for the advancement of careers for women working in the screen industries.
Women Unite Against Larry Nassar
Women Unite Against Larry Nassar
After years of predatory behavior by the former doctor, his victims formed a united front to bring an end to his abuse.“I didn’t think I would be here today. I was scared and nervous. It wasn’t until I started watching the impact statements from the other brave survivors that I realized I, too, needed to be here,” began gymnast Aly Raisman in her testimony against her abuser, former USA Gymnastics doctor Larry Nassar. With defiance, Raisman looked at Nassar and told him, “Larry, you do realize now that we, this group of women you so heartlessly abused over such a long period of time, are now a force and you are nothing.”
Judge Rosemarie Aquilina, who would ultimately decide Nassar’s fate and sentence, asked over 160 other women and girls who experienced Nassar’s abuse to come before a Michigan courtroom and make their voices heard and make him listen to them. One after the other, these brave women gave their testimony — some through tears, all with anger. In the end, these accusers not only took down Nassar, but also, over the following months, dozens of others within the institutions that helped prop him up.
In the end, Nassar was sentenced to 40 to 175 years in prison. Judge Aquilina had the final word. “Your decision to assault was precise, calculated, manipulative, devious, despicable,” she said as she delivered the sentence. “I just signed your death warrant.”
How to take action: Donate to RAINN (the Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network) – or do one better and learn how to get involved by volunteering, spreading the word, and fundraising.
Becky Hammon
Becky Hammon
This year, Hammon became the first woman to ever interview for a head coaching position in the NBA.Will Becky Hammon become the NBA’s first female head coach? We’re betting on it. After a 16-season WNBA career, Hammon decided it was time to step off the court. But a chance encounter with beloved San Antonio Spurs coach Gregg Popovich helped Hammon secure an unprecedented next step: a position as the first-ever female assistant coach for an NBA team.
Since accepting the job with the Spurs in 2014, Hammon has proven she’s not only diversifying the boy’s club, but she’s damn good at her job. In 2015, Hammon became the first female head coach in the NBA Summer League and led the Spurs to a Las Vegas championship. This year, Hammon received a handful of newsworthy coaching opportunities, most notably a chance to interview for a head coach position for the Milwaukee Bucks. While she was ultimately not offered the job, she is still the first woman ever to be considered for a head coaching position – and where there’s smoke there’s fire.
How to take action: Donate to the Women’s Sports Foundation, an organization founded by tennis legend Billie Jean King dedicated to creating leaders by ensuring all girls access to sports.
Beyoncé Slays Coachella
Beyoncé Slays Coachella
Bey’s groundbreaking performance will go down as one of the greatest live performances of all time.Has there ever been a moment more worthy of FOMO than Beyoncé’s Coachella performance? After canceling her headlining show in 2017 due to her pregnancy, Beyoncé made good on her promise to return the following year. The veteran performer rarely disappoints on stage, but this time, Bey took things to unprecedented heights. In a 26-song set, she belted out her biggest hits – some with the help of all-star surprise guests like Jay-Z, her sister Solange, and former Destiny’s Child members Kelly Rowland and Michelle Williams.
Her performance marked the first time Coachella hosted a Black female headliner in its 19-year history – and Beyoncé certainly leaned into the importance of the moment. The entire show served as a roaring tribute to Black college culture. With marching band, drumline performances, and step choreography, she showcased the HBCU experience. With her rendition of “Lift Every Song and Voice,” she honored a song that’s often referred to as the “Black national anthem.” And with readings and audio snippets, she highlighted the work and words of Black activists like Malcolm X, Nina Simone, and Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie. After her artistic contribution to the Black community, Beyoncé decided to also offer something more concrete: $100,000 in scholarships to historically Black colleges.
How to take action: Follow in Bey’s footsteps by donating to the National Association For Equal Opportunity in Higher Education, the non-profit umbrella organization of the nation’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
Donna Strickland
Donna Strickland
The 55-year-old scientist became the first woman to receive the Nobel Prize in Physics since 1963.In October, 59-year-old Donna Strickland became the third woman in 118 years to win the Nobel Prize in physics — only Marie Curie (in 1903) and Maria Goeppert-Mayer (in 1963) had previously earned the prestigious award throughout its history.
Women are notoriously underrepresented in STEM, a discrepancy that countless non-profit organizations, brand campaigns, and educational initiatives are constantly working to address. Research has even shown that women are less inclined to choose majors that would lead to STEM careers based on the gender-based discrimination evident in those fields. Because of STEM’s high-profile woman question, Strickland’s major win became major news.
But the Canadian professor would prefer not to be thought of as a “woman in science” but as, simply, “a scientist.”
“I didn’t think [gender] would be the big story,” Strickland told The Guardianweeks after her win. “I thought the big story would be the science.” One day, thanks to scientists like Strickland, it will be.
How to take action:Donate to the Association for Women in Science, a global network that inspires bold leadership, research, and solutions that advance women in STEM.
EDITORS:
Cortney Clift, Annette Cardwell, Kelli Korducki, Allison Takeda, Anjelika Temple
WRITERS:
Cortney Clift, Lindsey Graham-Jones, Kelli Korducki, Sarah Koller, Annette Cardwell, Magdalena O’Neal, Allison Takeda, Kris Stewart
DESIGN AND SITE MANAGEMENT:
Casey Callahan, Carrie Strine
MARKETING:
Ericha Richards, Kara Schab, Sarah Sheppard, Shannon Murphy
Every year, like clockwork, I have a very clear aesthetic shift when we hit March 1. Even if it's still chilly, I'm totally ready to say goodbye to the winter blues and hello to pastels, bouquets, and my personal favorite spring color combo: purple and green. And just like our world IRL, our favorite movies *also* experience a bit of an aesthetic shift. Instead of the boldness of summer movies, the cozy yet edgy quality of fall movies, or the magic of winter movies, these 2024 moviesare as fresh as a bouquet of flowers.
While you're adding some new spring break swimsuits and spring Target dresses to your shopping cart, check out these spring movies! They're fresh, fun, and ready to shake off their winter layers ;). If you're wondering what movies will be in theaters in March 2024, which April movies are headed your way, and what May movies are coming in 2024, stick around and find out. Check out The Best New TV Shows Coming In 2024 too!
Challengers — In Theaters April 26, 2024
Image via Amazon MGM Studios
In Challengers, we see Zendaya play a whole new role as tennis pro-turned-coach Tashi, who is determined to turn her husband Art into a pro. But things get a little messy when Art's pitted against his former best friend Patrick, who's also Tashi's ex. No biggie! This movie looks emotional, sexy, and edgy, and I literally can't wait. It's definitely shaping up to be one of the best spring movies this year. Read our Challengers review after you see the movie!
Challengers hits theaters April 26 and stars Mike Faist, Josh O'Connor, and Zendaya.
Unsung Hero — In Theaters April 26, 2024
Image via Lionsgate
Inspired by the true story of the Smallbone family, this spring movie follows David (played by Joel Smallbone), who moves his wife and their six kids from Australia to the US after his music company falls apart. Forced to rebuild their lives from the ground up, mom Helen (Daisy Betts) helps the family hold on to their faith — leading to their daughter Rebecca and sons Luke and Joel to become international music artists.
Unsung Hero is in theaters April 26 and stars Daisy Betts, Kirrilee Berger, Diesel La Torraca, Jonathan Jackson, JJ Pantano, Joel Smallbone.
The Idea Of You — On Prime Video May 2, 2024
Image via Amazon Studios
In The Idea of You, Anne Hathaway stars as 40-year-old Solène, who chaperones her teen daughter's trip to Coachella. The music festival already promises to be an adventure, but the last thing Sophie expects is to strike up a romance with 24-year-old frontman Hayes Campbell (Nicholas Galitzine).
The Idea of You drops on Prime Video May 2 and stars Nicholas Galitzine, Anne Hathaway, Ella Rubin, and Reid Scott.
Turtles All The Way Down — On Max May 2, 2024
Image via Max
John Green fans will love this adaptation of Turtles All The Way Down. The spring movie follows the very-anxious Aza, who's trying her best to be the best daughter, student, and friend possible. And when she reconnects with her childhood crush Davis, Aza has to come face-to-face with ideas of love, happiness, and hope that she's been running from.
Turtles All The Way Down hits Max May 2 and stars Isabela Merced, Cree, Felix Mallard, Maliq Johnson, Poorna Jagannathan, Judy Reyes, and J. Smith-Cameron.
Prom Dates — On Hulu May 3, 2024
Image via Hulu
Jess and Hannah decided in middle school that they'd have the perfect senior prom. Everything's going according to plan...until 24 hours before the dance when they break up with their dates. Now, the best friends have to figure out what their dream prom will actually look like.
Prom Dates hits Hulu May 3 and stars Julia Lester, Antonia Gentry, Kenny Ridwan, JT Neal, Jordan Buhat, Zión Moreno, Terry Hu, John Michael Higgins, and Chelsea Handler.
The Fall Guy — In Theaters May 3, 2024
Image via Universal Pictures
Stuntman Colt Seavers (Ryan Gosling) left Hollywood to prioritize his mental and physical health. But when the star of his ex's (Emily Blunt) blockbuster goes missing, Colt has to use all his stuntman skills to find him. This spring movie looks like pure, adrenaline-filled fun and I can't wait to see Ryan Gosling back on my screen after Barbie!
The Fall Guy hits theaters May 3 and stars Emily Blunt, Winston Duke, Ryan Gosling, Stephanie Hsu, Teresa Palmer, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, and Hannah Waddingham.
Unfrosted: The Pop-Tart Story — On Netflix May 3, 2024
Image via Netflix
It's 1963 and Kellogg's and Post are cereal archenemies. Both teams find themselves in a race to create a brand new breakfast pastry and the sugar, ambition, and betrayal that follow literally change the world.
Unfrosted: The Pop-Tart Story hits Netflix May 3 and has an all-star cast including Jerry Seinfeld, Melissa McCarthy, Jim Gaffigan, Amy Schumer, Hugh Grant, Max Greenfield, Christian Slater, and Bill Burr.
I Saw The TV Glow — In Select Theaters May 3, 2024
Image via A24
Like so many of us, Owen is literally just trying to survive his teenage years in the suburbs. When his classmate introduces him to a strange late-night TV show that's basically a look into the supernatural world beneath ours, Owen's view of life — and reality — slowly begins to splinter.
I Saw The TV Glow hits select theaters May 3 and stars Justice Smith, Brigitte Lundy-Paine, and Ian Foreman.
Cuckoo — In Theaters May 3, 2024
Image via Neon
Gretchen (played by Euphoria's Hunter Schafer) is staying in a resort in the German Alps with her dad and stepmom when she begins to see visions of a woman chasing her. The more she learns about the visions, the more she learns about the strange experiments the resort has been hiding.
Cuckoo hits theaters May 3 and stars Hunter Schafer, Dan Stevens, Jessica Henwick, Marton Csókás, Jan Bluthardt.
Kingdom Of The Planet Of The Apes — In Theaters May 8, 2024
Image via 20th Century Studios
This new 2024 spring movie opens 300 years after the reign of Caesar ends. Now, it's up to a young ape to go on a life-changing journey that will define the future for both apes and humans.
Kingdom Of The Planet Of The Apes hits theaters May 8 and stars Owen Teague, Freya Allan, Kevin Durand, Peter Macon, and William H. Macy.
Mother of the Bride — On Netflix May 9, 2024
Image via Sasidis Sasisakulporn/Netflix
Lana's excited to see her daughter Emma after her time abroad, but when Emma announces she's getting married (in Thailand, in a month), Lana is less than thrilled. But what's even worse? Emma's future father-in-law is the man who broke her heart.
Mother of the Bride hits Netflix May 9 and stars Brooke Shields, Benjamin Bratt, Miranda Cosgrove, Rachael Harris, Sean Teale, and Chad Michael Murray.
Poolman — In Theaters May 10, 2024
Image via VerticalEntertainment
Darren (played by Chris Pine, who's also directing!) is your average poolman, and he's constantly fighting to make LA a better place to live. When he's suddenly tasked with uncovering the secrets behind a sketchy business deal, Darren gets his friends in on a mission that could change everything.
Poolman hits theaters May 10 and stars Chris Pine, Annette Being, Danny DeVito, Jennifer Jason Leigh, DeWanda Wise, Stephen Tobolowsky, Clancy Brown, John Ortiz, and Ray Wise.
The Image of You — In Theaters May 10, 2024
Image via Republic Pictures (a Paramount Pictures label)
Based on Adele Parks' bestselling thriller, this spring movie follows identical twins Anna and Zoe, who find their bond tested in a new way when Anna falls in love with Nick. Zoe isn't as trusting as her sister, and the deeper she goes to find the truth, the more danger both sisters encounter.
The Image of You hits select theaters and digital May 10 and stars Sasha Pieterse, Parker Young, Nestor Carbonell, and Mira Sorvino.
Back To Black — In Theaters May 17, 2024
Image via Focus Features
Starring Marisa Abela in the lead role, this biopic offers a look into Amy Winehouse's life — and her rise to fame — as she creates her iconic Back to Black record. This movie is *sure* to have an incredible soundtrack and I already can't wait!
Back to Black hits theaters May 17 and stars Marisa Abela, Juliet Cowan, Lesley Manville, Eddie Marsan, and Jack O'Connell.
The Strangers — Chapter 1 — In Theaters May 17, 2024
Image via Lionsgate
Maya and Ryan aren't expecting to spend the night in the middle of nowhere, but then again, they weren't expecting their car to break down, either. What starts off as a low-stakes accident spirals out of control when three masked strangers begin targeting the couple.
The Strangers: Chapter 1 hits theaters May 17 and stars Madelaine Petsch, Froy Gutierrez, Gabriel Basso, and Ema Horvath.
Imaginary Friends — In Theaters May 17, 2024
Image via Paramount Pictures
Imaginary Friends (IF) follows Bea (Cailey Fleming), who starts to see everyone's forgotten imaginary friends and decides to reconnect them with their kids. This superstar cast features Ryan Reynolds, John Krasinski, Fiona Shaw, Phoebe Waller-Bridge, and Steve Carell, plus John Krasinski as director! We got a sneak peek at CinemaCon 2023 and cannot wait.
Imaginary Friends hits theaters May 17 and stars Steve Carell, Louis Gossett Jr., Cailey Fleming, John Krasinski, Ryan Reynolds, Fiona Shaw, and Phoebe Waller-Bridge.
Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga — In Theaters May 24, 2024
Image via Warner Bros
Starring Anya Taylor-Joy and Chris Hemsworth, this 2024 spring movie follows the titular warrior (played by Anya) on her journey across the Wasteland with biker warlord Dementus and his gang. Furiosa's journey quickly becomes a fight for survival when they cross paths with the Immortan Joe.
Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga premieres May 24 and stars Alyla Browne, Tom Burke, Chris Hemsworth, and Anya Taylor-Joy.
Atlas — On Netflix May 24, 2024
Image via Netflix
Jennifer Lopez stars as Atlas, a brilliant data analyst who doesn't trust AI at all. But when she's sent on a mission to capture a robot who's gone MIA, she finds that AI might be her only hope of returning home successfully. With so much going on in our own technological advancements, this movie couldn't come out at a better time!
Atlas hits Netflix May 24 and stars Jennifer Lopez, Simu Liu, Sterling K. Brown, Abraham Popoola, Lana Parrilla, Mark Strong.
The Garfield Movie — In Theaters May 24, 2024
Image via Sony Pictures Releasing
I will never say no to a film that brings my favorite cartoons to life, and this spring movie is no exception. This is sure to be a hilarious and heartfelt story that that doesn't take itself too seriously. If you ask me, this is the *perfect* early summer movie night.
The Garfield Movie hits theaters May 24 and stars Chris Pratt, Samuel L. Jackson, Nicholas Hoult, Ving Rhames, Cecily Strong, and Hannah Waddingham.
Young Woman and the Sea — In Select Theaters May 31, 2024
Image via Amazon
This spring movie, based on the book of the same name, stars follows Trudy Ederle, who became the first woman to ever swim across the English Channel on August 6, 1926. "What she accomplished was not only a personal achievement, but ground breaking for women in sport," lead actress Daisy Ridley tells PEOPLE. "I’m excited for people to see this film in all its beauty and experience this journey, with all its difficulty and hope and ultimately joy"
Young Woman and the Sea hits select theaters May 31 and stars Daisy Ridley, Tilda Cobham-Hervey, Stephen Graham, Christopher Eccleston, and Jeanette Hain.
Dune: Part 2 — In Theaters Now
Image via Warner Bros. Entertainment
I have not been able to stop talking about this franchise since I saw the first installment, and this spring movie looks like it's going to be even better than the original. Dune 2 follows Timothée Chalamet's Paul as he pairs up with the Fremen, confronts his enemies, and learns more about his destiny after his father's murder. Once again I say: I will never stop talking about this new spring movie!!
Dune 2 hits theaters March 1 and stars Timothée Chalamet, Zendaya, Florence Pugh, Austin Butler, Josh Brolin, and Rebecca Ferguson.
Spaceman — On Netflix Now
Image via Netflix
In this sci-fi drama, Adam Sandler plays Jakub, an astronaut who is desperate to return to earth so he can fix his marriage with Lenka (Carey Mulligan). Jakub isn't sure where to begin, until he finds an ancient creature hiding in his ship (voiced by Paul Dano) ready to help.
Spaceman hits Netflix March 1. The movie stars Adam Sandler, Carey Mulligan, Paul Dano, and Kunal Nayyar.
Ricky Stanicky — On Prime Video Now
Image via Prime Video
20 years after they created Ricky Stanicky, an imaginary friend, three childhood friends still use him as an alibi when they need a quick exit. But when their significant others demand to meet the infamous Ricky, the trio decides to hire actor Rod to play him — and end up regretting creating Ricky in the first place.
Ricky Stanicky premieres March 7 on Prime Video and in theaters. The movie stars Zac Efron, John Cena, Jermaine Fowler, and Andrew Santino.
Kung Fu Panda 4 — In Theaters Now
Image via Universal Pictures
Jack Black returns to our screens as Po, who has to find a new Dragon Warrior after he's chosen to be the Spiritual Leader of the Valley of Peace. But the quest in this new spring movie gets more difficult when an evil sorceress plans to gather all the villain's Po's already defeated.
You can watch Kung Fu Panda 4 starting March 8. The film stars Jack Black, Awkwafina, James Hong, Dustin Hoffman, Bryan Cranston, Viola Davis, and Ke Huy Quan.
Damsel — On Now
Image via Netflix
In Damsel, powerhouse actress and entrepreneur Millie Bobby Brown stars as Princess Elodie, who agrees to marry the handsome Prince Henry. But after she's already agreed to the union, and realizes the entire set-up was a trap, Elodie finds herself trapped in a cave with a fire-breathing dragon.
You can watch Damsel on Netflix March 8. The movie stars Angela Bassett, Millie Bobby Brown, Nick Robinson, Ray Winstone, and Robin Wright.
Cabrini — In Theaters Now
Image via Angel Studios
In honor of International Women's Day, Angel Studios is releasing Cabrini, which follows the unbelievably inspiring true story of Italian immigrant Francesca Cabrini. When she arrives in the US in 1889, Francesca, dealing with severe health problems, has to gather up all the strength she has in a mission to secure housing for orphans living on the streets of New York City.
Cabrini hits theaters March 8 and stars Virginia Bocelli, Cristiana Dell'Anna, John Lithgow, Romana Maggiora, and David Morse.
Love Lies Bleeding — In Select Theaters Now
Image via A24
Lou (Kristen Stewart) is an introverted gym manager who falls hard for bodybuilder Jackie's (Katy O'Brian) ambition and drive. Jackie intends to pop in and out of town on her way to Vegas — that is, until the pair gets pulled into the violence of Lou's criminal family.
Love Lies Bleeding hits theaters March 8 and stars Ed Harris, Jena Malone, Katy O'Brian, and Kristen Stewart.
Accidental Texan — In Theaters Now
Image via Roadside Attractions
Outer Banks star Rudy Pankow plays Erwin, an actor who's stranded in Texas after getting kicked off a movie. When he's taken in by oil driller Merle, he joins the family's quest to outwit their corrupt oil company.
Accidental Texan hits theaters March 8 and stars Rudy Pankow, Thomas Haden Church, Carrie-Anne Moss, Bruce Dern, and AnnaClare Hicks.
Little Wing — On Paramount+ Now
Image via Paramount+
Not only is Kaitlyn grieving her parents' divorce, but now she has to deal with the upcoming loss of her home. In an effort to solve her mom's money problems, Kaitlyn and her best friend decide to steal a valuable bird, but wind up becoming friends with its owner instead.
Little Wing drops on Paramount+ March 13. The movie stars Brian Cox, Kelly Reilly, Brooklynn Prince, and Che Tafari.
Frida — On Prime Video Now
Image via Lucienne Bloch, Courtesy Old Stage Studios
Get a brand new look into the life and art of Frida Kahlo with this movie that includes entries from her diary, letters, and essays. The film covers more than 40 years of her life, and the coolest part is that Kahlo's own words are brought to life by colorful and lyrical animation inspired by her work!
Frida hits Prime Video March 15.
Irish Wish — On Netflix Now
Image via Netflix
In Irish Wish, Maddie's in Ireland for her best friend's wedding, but it's not all rainbows and pots of gold — because Maddie's BFF is marrying Paul, the man *she's* in love with. When Maddie wishes that she was the bride instead, she wakes up to her dream relationship with Paul. But the more time passes, the more Maddie wonders whether Paul's actually the one she's supposed to end up with. Check out our interviews with Lindsay Lohan and Ayesha Curry, and Ed Speleers!
Irish Wish hits Netflix March 15 and stars Lindsay Lohan, Jane Seymour, Elizabeth Tan, Ed Speleers, Alexander Vlahos, and Ayesha Curry.
Snack Shack — In Theaters Now
Image via Republic Pictures//Paramount Global Content Distribution
It's the summer of 1991 in Nebraska City, and best friends AJ and Moose decide to turn the rundown pool snack shack into the hottest place in town. But when they meet lifeguard Brooke, their summer plans to strike it rich — and their friendship — get put to the test.
Snack Shack hits theaters March 15 and stars Conor Sherry, Gabriel LaBelle, Mika Abdalla, Nick Robinson, and David Costabile.
Arthur The King — In Theaters Now
Image via Lionsgate
Mikael Lindnord (Mark Wahlberg) is the captain of a Swedish adventure racing team in this spring movie, which which is based on a true story! When he meets a stray dog during his treacherous 400-mile race, he has to figure out how to get them both out of the jungles of Ecuador.
Arthur The King premieres March 15 and stars Nathalie Emmanuel, Simu Liu, Juliet Rylance, and Mark Wahlberg.
French Girl — In Theaters Now
Image via Paramount Global Content Distribution Group
Gordon plans to propose to his girlfriend — until a job offer from her ex gets her to move to Quebec. Determined to strengthen their relationship, Gordon follows her to Canada and winds up having to impress her entire family. Check out our interview with Zach Braff, Évelyne Brochu, and Vanessa Hudgens!
French Girl hits theaters March 15 and stars Zach Braff, Evelyne Brochu, Luc Picard, Antoine Olivier Pilon, Isabelle Vincent, Charlotte Aubin, Muriel Dutil, William Fichtner, and Vanessa Hudgens.
Road House — On Prime Video Now
Image via Prime Video
An 80s classic gets a modern, action-packed update with Road House, which stars Jake Gyllenhaal as an ex-UFC fighter named Dalton. When he takes a job as a Florida Keys roadhouse bouncer, he realizes this dreamy new life isn't exactly paradise.
Roadhouse hits Prime Video March 21 and stars Jake Gyllenhaal, Post Malone, Conor McGregor, Daniela Melchior, and Hannah Love Lanier.
Shirley — On Netflix Now
Image via Netflix
Take a step back in time to follow Shirley Chisholm's presidential campaign in 1972. Chisholm became the first Black congresswoman and a political icon, and this is one movie you cannot miss. Check out our interview with Shirley star Christina Jackson!
Shirley drops on Netflix March 22 and stars Regina King, Christina Jackson, Lucas Hedges, Michael Cherrie, Dorian Missick, Amirah Vann, W. Earl Brown, André Holland, and Terrence Howard.
Immaculate — In Theaters Now
Image via Neon
Cecilia is over the moon to join a convent in the beautiful Italian countryside. She welcomes the adventure with open arms, but things take a turn for the sinister when she begins to discover that the convent is hiding much more than they let on in the beginning. Check out our interview with Sydney Sweeney to hear more!
Immaculate hits theaters March 22 and stars Sydney Sweeney, Álvaro Morte, Benedetta Porcaroli, and Dora Romano.
Luca — In Theaters Now
Image via Disney/Pixar
This coming-of-age film is great for anyone who's dreaming of a summer adventure. Luca's enjoying the most magical summer in Italy. While all the gelato and scooter rides are fun, Luca's favorite part is spending every day with his new best friend. But Luca also has a secret that could threaten everything: he's actually a sea monster who's not supposed to be on land.
Luca is being rereleased in theaters on March 22. The film stars Emma Berman, Jim Gaffigan, Giacomo Gianniotti, Jack Dylan Grazer, Maya Rudolph, and Jacob Tremblay.
Problemista — In Theaters Now
Image via A24
Aspiring toy designer Alejandro is having a hard time bringing his unique and unconventional ideas into the real world. But when time begins to run out on his work visa, he becomes the assistant for a strange and passionate figure in the art world — a job that just might help save his dream.
Problemista is in theaters now and stars Julio Torres, Tilda Swinton, Greta Lee, James Scully, and RZA.
Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire — In Theaters Now
Image via Columbia Pictures/Sony
This spring movie is more nostalgic than ever because the Spenglers are headed back to the New York City firehouse. When they accidentally release an evil force thanks to an ancient artifact, they have to team up to prevent a second Ice Age from taking over the world.
Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire premieres March 29 and stars Carrie Coon, McKenna Grace, Emily Alyn Lind, Paul Rudd, and Finn Wolfhard.
La Chimera — On Apple TV Now
Image via Neon
The Chimera means something different to everyone. To find his Chimera — the woman he's lost — Arthur will go to the ends of the earth to find the door to the afterlife. This spring movie holds a tension between life and death in a way you won't be able to let go of.
La Chimera hits Apple TV March 29 and stars Josh O'Connor, Carol Duarte, Vincenzo Nemolato, Alba Rohrwacher, Isabella Rossellini, and Lou Roy-Lecollinet.
Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire — In Theaters Now
Image via Warner Bros. Entertainment
Godzilla and King Kong are two of the most iconic creatures in cinema, and they're back for another battle. But this time, it's a battle against a dangerous force hidden within the planet. Now, they have to team up to protect themselves — and everyone on earth.
Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire premieres March 29 and stars Fala Chen, Alex Ferns, Rebecca Hall, Brian Tyree Henry, Kaylee Hottle, Rachel House, and Dan Stevens.
The Beautiful Game — On Netflix Now
Image via Netflix
Bill Nighy stars in this spring movie as Mal, manager for England’s homeless football team. When he decides to add Vinny as a striker ahead of the team's Homeless World Cup in Rome, they might have a chance at winning, but only if Vinny can learn to let go of the past.
The Beautiful Game hits Netflix March 29 and stars Bill Nighy, Micheal Ward, Callum Scott Howells, Sheyi Cole, Robin Nazari, Kit Young, Tom Vaughan-Lawlor, Valeria Golino.
Someone Like You — In Theaters Now
Image via Karen Kingsbury Productions
Dawson (played by Jake Allyn) is mourning the sudden death of his best friend London (Sarah Fisher). When he learns that London has a secret twin sister, Andi, he sets out to find her. Turns out, Andi's looking for her biological parents — and it doesn't take long for Dawson and Andi's paths to cross in a way that changes everything.
Someone Like You hits theaters April 2 and stars Jake Allyn, Lynn Collins, Sarah Fisher, Bart Johnson, and Robyn Lively.
Música — On Prime Video Now
Image via Prime Video
Calling all rom-com lovers! Once you finish rewatching Camila Mendes' Upgraded (one of the best winter movies, IMO), check out Música. This spring movie follows Rudy, a street performer living with his mom in Newark. Rudy's feeling stuck between his passion for music and the idea of settling down. But everything changes when he meets Isabella (Camila). My favorite part about this movie is that IRL couple Camila Mendes and Rudy Mancuso met while filming!
Música is available to stream on Prime Video April 4. The movie stars Rudy Mancuso, Camila Mendes, Francesca Reale, Maria Mancuso, and J.B. Smoove.
How to Date Billy Walsh — On Prime Video Now
Image via Prime Video
Amelia and Archie have been best friends since they were kids, but Archie's keeping a huge secret: he's been in love with Amelia their entire lives. When he's finally ready to tell Amelia how he feels, she falls for the new American transfer student Billy Walsh. And the more Archie tries to keep them apart, the more he risks losing Amelia forever.
How to Date Billy Walsh premieres on Prime Video April 5 and stars Sebastian Croft, Charithra Chandran, and Tanner Buchanan.
Monkey Man — In Theaters Now
Image via Universal Pictures
Dev Patel directs and stars in this spring movie, which follows an anonymous young man in a quest to bring down a group of corrupt leaders. Using a somewhat unhinged campaign against these men who continually and systemically victimize the powerless, Patel's character sets out to avenge his mother. Filmmaking icon Jordan Peele serves as producer.
Monkey Man hits theaters April 5 and stars Sharlto Copley, Sobhita Dhulipala, Ashwini Kalsekar, and Dev Patel.
The Absence Of Eden — In Theaters Now
Image via Roadside Attractions/Vertical Entertainment
In this spring movie, Zoe Saldaña stars as an undocumented woman trying to escape a cartel opposite an ICE agent (played by Garrett Hedlund) who's struggling with his role as a security agent at the border. When their paths cross, everything changes.
The Absence Of Eden hits theaters April 12 and stars Zoe Saldaña, Garrett Hedlund, Adria Arjona, and Tom Waits.
Civil War — In Theaters Now
Image via A24
In this star-studded film, which features Kirsten Dunst, Jesse Plemmons, Cailee Spaeny, Wagner Moura, and Stephen McKinley, a group of journalists travel across an alternate version of the United States where a new civil war has ripped the country apart.
Civil War premieres April 12 and stars Kirsten Dunst, Stephen McKinley Henderson, Wagner Moura, Jesse Plemmons, Cailee Spaeny.
The Greatest Hits — On Hulu Now
Image via Searchlight Pictures
In this spring movie, Harriet knows music like the back of her hand. However, the last thing she expects is for certain songs to literally pull her back in time. As she starts reliving the past through her ex's memories, she's also finding new love in the present, and all this back and forth leaves her wondering if she can change the past — and if she even wants to. Check out our interview with Lucy Boynton on YouTube!
The Greatest Hits is available to stream on Hulu starting April 12. The film stars Lucy Boynton, Justin H. Min, Austin Crute, and David Corenswet.
Abigail — In Theaters Now
Image via Universal Pictures
The mission was simple: kidnap the 12-year-old daughter of an underworld mastermind, watch her overnight, and collect the $50 million ransom. But as the night wears on, the criminals begin to disappear. Mystery turns to horror when they realize this is no ordinary little girl.
Abigail premieres April 19 and stars Melissa Barrera, William Catlett, Angus Cloud, Kevin Durand, Giancarlo Esposito, Kathryn Newton, Dan Stevens, and Alisha Weir.
Rebel Moon - Part Two: The Scargiver — On Netflix Now
Image via Netflix
Kora and the people of Veldt are ready to sacrifice everything to defend their home against the Motherworld. But the night before their battle, they must come together to reveal what they're fighting for — a night that will form unbreakable relationships and change everything.
Rebel Moon - Part Two: The Scargiver hits Netflix April 19 and stars Sofia Boutella, Djimon Hounsou, Michiel Huisman, Staz Nair, Donna Bae, E Duffy, and Cleopatra Coleman.
The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare — In Theaters Now
Image via Lionsgate
As someone who was obsessed with spies as a kid, I'm all about this new spring movie, which focuses on a secret Nazi-fighting organization founded by Winston Churchill. They use lots of unconventional (and apparently, ungentlemanly) methods.
You can see The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare on April 19. The movie stars Henry Cavill, Cary Elwes, Eiza González, Henry Golding, Alex Pettyfer, Alan Ritchson, and Til Schweiger.
Sasquatch Sunset — In Theaters Now
Image via Bleecker Street
Sasquatch Sunset stars Daisy Jones lead Riley Keough and follows the last family of Sasquatches as they fight for survival in the midst of an ever-changing world. It's hilarious, it's ridiculous, and it's surprisingly human. FYI — this spring movie might seem fantastical, but it's not for kids!
Sasquatch Sunset hits theaters April 19 and stars Riley Keough, Jesse Eisenberg, Nathan Zellner, and Christophe Zajac-Denek.
Check back here for the latest news on your favorite spring movies! And don't forget to check all of the best winter movies off your watchlist before you press play on this year's summer movies.
Lead image viaNetflix
This post has been updated.
by
Ellen Pao Is Turning Tech Into a Woman’s World
On March 27, 2015, Ellen Pao found herself at San Francisco’s Superior Court. After a five-week trial that made national headlines, Pao was there to hear the verdict of her case against her former employer, venture capital firm Kleiner Perkins, whom she was suing for $16 million in damages for gender discrimination, failure to take reasonable steps to prevent gender discrimination, and two counts of workplace retaliation.
This year, in the wake of Susan J. Fowler’s scathing essay revealing Uber’s toxic harassment culture, Google employee James Damore’s anti-woman manifesto, and a New York Times exposé on tech venture capital’s systemic misogyny, it’s become very clear how ahead of her time Ellen Pao was in standing up against Silicon Valley’s sexism.
“It’s a relief to me to see that people are finally being believed and they aren’t being challenged. They aren’t being called names and being further victimized. It [feels like] finally people understand that there is a problem.”
“This year, it was like people finally understood that there was a problem. It was no longer like let’s shoot the messenger every time somebody calls attention to it.”
Pao didn’t win her case. The jury dismissed all claims against Kleiner Perkins. But in defeat there can still be triumph. Since the loss, Pao has gone on to become a key crusader in the tech world, leading the fight against discrimination and exclusion in the workplace and helping others to do the same.
In September, Pao released her first book, Reset: My Fight for Inclusion and Lasting Change, in which she tells her side of the Kleiner Perkins lawsuit for the first time and recounts a few of her experiences. Some of the worst include the time she was on a private jet with her male coworkers and they began discussing their preference in sex workers. Another, mentions how her boss told her he liked the idea of hiring an Asian woman because she’d be a “tiger mom-raised” woman.
But when Pao filed her case just a few years ago, sexism in tech was an issue that was more likely to be settled behind closed doors than in a courtroom. And while these experiences were happening, Pao stayed silent. Protesting company norms and current protocol meant ostracizing yourself from the rest of the team and sabotaging your chance to get ahead, especially if you’re a young woman in a male-dominated field. But eventually, Pao could no longer keep quiet.
“I did not want to be somebody who just stood by,” she told us, and Pao says she has no regrets about ultimately deciding to fight her employers and losing.
“[The case] had a big impact on the conversation,” she says. “If I hadn’t [pressed charges], I would have always wondered what would have happened. Also, I didn’t think that Kleiner would change without it. I was worried that there would be somebody else who would get harassed or worse.”
Though Pao’s case didn’t end with the verdict she wanted, her courage has helped to open the floodgates on the issues of gender discrimination and harassment in tech, and has changed public perception of women who take a stand.
After Pao was eventually fired from Kleiner Perkins, she didn’t stop trying to bring about change. She was appointed as CEO of Reddit, another “boys’ club,” and began making big changes to help improve lives.
As the new top exec, Pao eliminated the practice of salary negotiations, on the basis that men generally negotiate more aggressively than women. She also instituted a strict anti-harassment policy and shut down five subreddits that violated that policy — most famously, subreddits associated with revenge porn and unauthorized nude photos.
Pao’s efforts to create a more inclusive online environment didn’t go over well with the Reddit community. After she shut down the subreddits that violated her new policy, a handful of channels dedicated to defaming Pao’s character popped up in their place. Then after the firing of one of Reddit’s most notable employees turned into public controversy, Pao stepped down as CEO, yet again facing a flurry of negative press and online hate.
These days, Pao is still fighting on the front lines of Silicon Valley. She’s an investment partner and the Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer at the Kapor Center for Social Impact. She also helped establish Project Include, a non-profit that provides guidelines and actionable items for CEOs to make their companies a truly inclusive place to work, not just for women but for everyone.
Pao remains as dedicated to her mission as the day she filed her lawsuit, but she can’t change an entire industry alone. Could 2018 be the year in which the rest of the tech world finally steps up to make the changes it desperately needs? Pao is hopeful.
“We’re far from victory in making tech inclusive,” she admits. “But understanding that we have a problem is an important first step, and I think this year we’ve gotten most people to understand that there is a problem. Now we can move to really getting as many people as possible to help fix it. Let’s figure out how we can all work together to take down those barriers that are blocking everyone from succeeding.”
This profile is part of our new project “Year in Women.” Check out all the women featured:
The first few trailers for Zendaya's Challengers hooked me with the promise of a steamy love triangle and plenty of drama on and off the tennis court. I can now confidently say this is one of the best movies of the year — if not Zendaya's entire career. The film (which just nabbed a 100 percent Rotten Tomatoes score) explores love and passion in a totally different way than I expected. And while it engages your senses, more than anything, it makes you feel.
"Challengers" Is A Fully Emotional Experience
Image via Amazon MGM Studios
Challengers (directed by Luca Guadagnino) is a full experience thanks to the visuals, sound design, and score. The first 10 minutes alone will make you want to re-enter your tennis era, and the vibrant feel of Challengers makes everything from a American college campus to a backyard feel like the Italian coast.
This backyard is where we see Mike Faist's Art, Josh O'Connor's Patrick, and Zendaya's Tashi truly mesh for the first time. Both Art and Patrick want Tashi's number, but while she's curious, she's not so sure she should offer it up. They spend time talking about tennis and college, and later that night, Tashi promises her number to the one that wins their match, rather than the one that catches her eye or moves her. It's a telling choice that has major ramifications later on in the story. Tashi just wants to watch drama unfold, especially if it makes the boys' tennis more emotional (she, as the kids say, loves mess).
Image via Amazon MGM Studios
From this point on, Tashi, Patrick, and Art move as a unit, even when their relationships end. Tashi's at the helm, and while she's definitely the mastermind, she's more like their North Star than a leader giving them direct orders. Patrick and Art follow her light over the course of the next 13 years, to a Challengers tournament that pits the estranged friends against each other.
It's very clear what both men think about her, and the smallest details reinforce they are in love. (For instance, at one of Tashi's early matches, their eyes linger on her even after she's hit the ball, while she barely moves a muscle to keep up with their match later in the movie).
"Challengers" Is More About The Characters Than Tennis
Image via Amazon MGM Studios
Even though all three leads are fully-formed, individual characters (with wildly different personalities, might I add), they switch places at any given point in the story to fill each other's emotional shoes. One moment, Art is hopeful, Tashi is calculated, and Patrick is driven. The next Tashi is entirely focused on tennis, Art is willing to bend the rules of right and wrong to get what he wants, and Patrick is left in their wake. You can never truly root for one person before the tables are turned, but despite it all, the tension between them always leaves you wanting more.
Image via Amazon MGM Studios
While the movie has a number of tennis matches (which means an endless amount of tennis grunts), the most impactful moments for me are the quiet ones. We know Art and Patrick are in love with Tashi, but we're never quite sure what Tashi thinks about herself.
The Spider-Man actress brings a nuance to the character we haven't seen from her before, and there's a cautious tenderness to the moments where Tashi's back is facing another character, or where she's standing alone. You can almost see the gears turning in her head. "Almost" is the most important word because Challengers is full of "almosts": Tashi almost apologizes, Art almost chooses himself over everyone.
Image via Amazon MGM Studios
Challengers is full of open-ended emotions that serve as an exploration of human nature in all its complicated, manipulative, dreamy glory. It's a movie about passion and love and desire — and it's one that leaves you wondering who, or what, the object of that desire is.
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Sophia Bush and Ashlyn Harris caused quite a stir at Elton John's Oscars afterparty, but for good reason! After dodging dating rumors for quite awhile, they dressed to impress and made their first public debut as a couple! Sophia even wore her best accessory — a mega-watt smile — that further confirms this blissful pair.
While some people love to know whencelebrity couples fell in love, the details about Sophia Bush and Ashlyn Harris' relationship have people wondering when this couple actually got together. Well, our wait is over because Sophia decided to open about what led to her romance with Ashlyn Harris and why certain rumors hold no merit!
Since we're clearly tuned in to this love story, here's everything you need to know about Sophia Bush and Ashlyn Harris's relationship!
Who is Sophia Bush?
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Sophia Bush has had a lengthy career as an actress, and she's most recognized for her portrayal of Brooke Davis in the hit TV series One Tree Hill. She's also appeared in Nip/Tuck, Chicago Fire, Incredibles 2, and John Tucker Must Die. When she's not showing off her acting chops, she hosts the Drama Queens podcast alongside former One Tree Hill castmates Hilarie Burton and Bethany Joy Lenz!
Who is Ashlyn Harris?
Image via Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images for W Magazine
Ashlyn Harris is a former U.S. soccer player who had a successful run — no pun intended — as a goalkeeper during the career. She also won the 2015 FIFA Women's World Cup in Canada and continued making an impressionable mark. However, she announced her retirementin 2022 and — per her Instagrampage — has gone on to become the Global Creative Advisor for Gotham FC and Adidas Football.
When did the dating rumors about Sophia Bush and Ashlyn Harris start?
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June 2023
Rumors about a possible connection between Sophia Bush and Ashlyn Harris swirled last summer when Cosmopolitanreported they were on a panel at Cannes Lion International Festival of Creativity. Sophia shared a pic of the two at the festival on Instagramand wrote, "Love you @ashlynharris24 and @sophieannkelly" towards the end of her caption.
A source told Page Six, "It’s very new...They are definitely a couple.” But, Sophia Bush and Ashlyn Harris didn't confirm or deny anything at that time.
When did Sophia Bush file for divorce from Grant Hughes?
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August 2023
A couple of months after Sophia Bush and Ashlyn Harris were seen getting cozy together, Sophia filed for divorce from her former husband Grant Hughes. Peopleshared that they were only married for a little over a year — 13 months — but didn't end on a bad terms. A source then told Entertainment Tonight, "Grant and Sophia are better off as friends and they weren’t getting enough time with each other before their breakup."
When did Ashlyn Harris and Ali Krieger file for divorce?
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October 2023
While things seemed to quiet down, Ashlyn Harris soon filed for divorce from Ali Krieger after getting married towards the end of 2019. What's interesting is that a source told Peoplethis decision wasn't surprising. "Although it’s new information to the public, Ashlyn and Ali’s divorce began months ago and they have been living apart since the summer,” the source said.
This is also around the time it was speculated Sophia Bush and Ashlyn Harris had their first official date. A rep told People, "Grant will always want the best for Sophia, and is supportive of all that makes her happy and fulfilled." We guess it helps he and Sophia had a solid friendship before getting married!
As for Ali Krieger, she basically let the world know things were business as usual with an Instagrampost. She captioned a pic of her playing soccer with, "Preparing for playoffs while in my Beyoncé lemonade era." A comment from user @lgbtlfg said, "the fact that a lot of players in these comment’s usually mind their business and stay out of drama but are supporting ali should tell everyone all they need to know."
The only thing Ashlyn said about it on Instagramis that she never intended for her and Ali's divorce to be made a public matter. A portion of her note says, "This process is never easy, but we were making our way through."
Have Sophia Bush and Ashlyn Harris publicly talked about their relationship?
Image via Vivien Killilea/Getty Images for Tequila Don Julio
March 2024
Besides showing up to Elton John's Oscars afterparty together, Sophia Bush and Ashlyn Harris were previously tight-lipped about their relationship. The only hint Sophia offered was much more of a reflective post about 2023 on Instagramat the beginning of January. She said, "This year taught me to listen to myself and no one else. To let go of expectation that wounds and grasp possibility that frees. To not care about optics and instead invest in honesty."
But, she's since chosen to own where she is in life.
Image via Lauren Dukoff/Glamour Magazine
Sophia Bush on the cover of Glamour Magazine
April 2024
Sophia Bush has now reached a point where she's publicly ready to stand in her truth regarding her life and her relationship status so much that she penned her own cover story for Glamour. The first thing she did was open up about how she really felt about her marriage and fertility struggles.
She wrote, "But after the wedding I found myself in the depths and heartbreak of the fertility process, which was the most clarifying experience of my life. It feels like society is finally making space for brutally honest conversations about how hard and painful any fertility journey is, but I kept mine private. I was trying to get through months of endless ultrasounds, hormone shots, so many blood draws that I have scar tissue in my veins, and retrieval after retrieval, while simultaneously realizing the person I had chosen to be my partner didn’t necessarily speak the same emotional language I did.”
Image via Lauren Dukoff/Glamour Magazine
As far as her relationship with Ashlyn Harris is concerned, the star is enjoying the love that exists between them. Contrary to alleged rumors, their initial relationship was a platonic one that stemmed from a place of understanding and support.
She told Glamour,“I didn’t expect to find love in this support system. I don’t know how else to say it other than: I didn’t see it until I saw it. And I think it’s very easy not to see something that’s been in front of your face for a long time when you’d never looked at it as an option and you had never been looked at as an option. What I saw was a friend with her big, happy life. And now I know she thought the same thing about me.”
She also added, "A lot of effort was made to be graceful with other people’s processing, their time and obligations, and their feelings. What felt like seconds after I started to see what was in front of me, the online rumor mill began to spit in the ugliest ways. There were blatant lies. Violent threats. There were the accusations of being a home-wrecker. The ones who said I’d left my ex because I suddenly realized I wanted to be with women—my partners have known what I’m into for as long as I have (so that’s not it, y’all, sorry!).”
Image via Lauren Dukoff/Glamour Magazine
It's safe to say that Sophia Bush is thoroughly comfortable with her love life and identity as a queer woman. She said, "I’ve experienced so much safety, respect, and love in the queer community, as an ally all of my life, that, as I came into myself, I already felt it was my home. I think I’ve always known that my sexuality exists on a spectrum. Right now I think the word that best defines it is queer. I can’t say it without smiling, actually. And that feels pretty great.”
And this is what it looks like to reclaim your narrative when so many people are looking at a brief glimpse of the lives of celebrities. We love that Sophia Bush and Ashlyn Harris are loving each other on their terms without feeling pressured to share anything before they were ready to. Our hope is that their love story continues to unfold beautifully.
Be sure to watch Sophia Bush's interview with Glamour's Editor-in-Chief Samantha Barry here!
Full Credits From Glamour Magazine:
Writer: Sophia Bush
Photographer: Lauren Dukoff
Stylist: Deborah Afshani
Hair: Matthew Collins
Makeup: Afton Williams
Manicure: Brittney Boyce
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This article has been updated.
Lead image via Frazer Harrison/Getty Images and Frazer Harrison/Getty Images