Women in Sci-Fi: Futuristic film leading ladies.
One of many playgrounds of imagination, science fiction or sci-fi has always transported us to far off planets, future societies and epic adventures. This is a genre of movies where women have cracked the whip and swept the way for so many iconic and inspirational roles in futuristic worlds. So we’re celebrating these fabulous leading ladies of sci-fi films who yet keep inspiring and enthralling audiences.
1. Sigourney Weaver – ” Alien ” Series (Ellen Ripley)
Sigourney Weaver as Ellen Ripley is an iconic character in sci fi. In the “Alien” series Ripley is a tough, resourceful officer fighting scary aliens. In this case she is strong, smart, and fearless, and proves women can be as heroic as men. Ripley’s character had inspired so many many women to be brave and stand up to the challenges.
2. Linda Hamilton – “Terminator” Series (Sarah Connor)
Linda Hamilton plays Sarah Connor, the tough (not to mention the loud and angry) mother to the future savior in the “Terminator” series. Originally, an ordinary woman, she becomes a mighty fighter to save her son from evil robots. Sarah’s story is testament to resilience and determination and a journey out of vulnerability to strength. The character brings us back to the point that inner strength can be found at some places we would have considered least likely.
3. Daisy Ridley – ‘Star Wars’ Sequel Trilogy (Rey)
Daisy Ridley plays Rey in the “Star Wars” sequel trilogy. She starts out as a scavenger on a desert planet, until she discovers her connection to the Force and her role as a Jedi. The literal meaning of the phrase is its touch of self discovery, courage and power of believing who one really is. With both international profiles and the diversity of ideas, her character has become a symbol of hope and empowerment for a lot of young girls.
4. Carrie-Anne Moss – “The Matrix” Series (Trinity)
Carrie-Anne Moss also plays Trinity, one of the key figures of “The Matrix” movie series. She is a hacker, a warrior, fighting against a dystopian system. No one ever really knows how she abandoned team after they had fought so hard for so long, but Trinity is known for her incredible fighting skills and her unwavering loyalty to her cause (or companions). Throwing around the word ‘smart’ we see the power of intelligence, strength, and team-work to overcome the obstacles.
5. Jennifer Lawrence – “The Hunger Games” Series (Katniss Everdeen)
The main character of the book “The Hunger Games” is Katniss Everdeen, played by Jennifer Lawrence. She not only volunteers to take her sister’s place in a deadly competition, she becomes a symbol of rebellion against an oppressive regime. Katniss is resourceful, compassionate, and for sure determined. The story shows why it is important to speak up for what is right, as well as protect those people you love.
6. Nichelle Nichols – The “Star Trek” Series – (Lieutenant Uhura)
Nichelle Nichols (as Lieutenant Uhura) is a trailblazing character in the ‘Star Trek’ series. As a communications officer on the Starship Enterprise she was one of the first African American women to play a key role in a major TV series and film. It’s a good thing since Uhura is intelligent, responds well under pressure and skilled, which led to more diversity in sci-fi and television.
7. Milla Jovovich – “The Fifth Element” – (Leeloo)
“The Fifth Element” centers around the enigmatic and powerful protagonist, Leeloo, played by Milla Jovovich. She is a Supreme Being with all the Grace and Asperities of the world, on a mission to save the World. Leeloo is a young, innocent, and powerful character. She proves that every person has a meaningful contribution to the greater good.
Conclusion
The Sci-fi films genre lore has seen it’s leading ladies leave an eternal imprint in the genre and its audiences. Some are courage, some are intelligence, some are resilience and they prove that women can be heroes in any world, fictional or non fictional. As we remember these iconic characters, we also focus on to what the future will lead us, with even stronger, even more inspiring women to lead us into the lands of science fiction. These heroes and role models exist in the pages of thrillers to inspire us all to be the boldest, bravest, unstoppable people we can be.