Under The Radar

The 2018 Golden Globes had no female nominees for Best Director, despite the plethora of big-name, acclaimed films led by women in the last year like Wonder Women, Lady Bird and First They Killed My Father. These films are praised for showcasing stories about women and for women without stereotyping or downplaying female strengths.

But these three films were also produced or directed by women and are among a crop of other films released within the last year helmed by women but seemingly missed. Below is our Culture staff’s list of lesser-known but equally powerful and creative films from 2017, directed by women.

Mudbound Directed by Dee Rees

Mudbound is about two World War II veterans, one white and one a man of color, who return to their respective Mississippi homes and confront individualized PTSD. The film showcases violent scenes of racism and trauma set against the postwar farmland of the Mississippi. Standout cast members include Carey Mulligan, Mary J. Blige and Jason Mitchell.

Their Finest Directed by Lone Sherfig

Their Finest is a film about making a film— more specifically, making a film about the Battle of Dunkirk. Three months before the acclaimed Dunkirk released to theaters, Their Finest released statewide in April. The film tracks a group of filmmakers seeking to make a documentary about the Battle of Dunkirk into a story to boost morale.

Step Directed by Amanda Lipitz

Step is a documentary about the Lethal Ladies step dance team at the Baltimore Leadership School for Young Women. Lipitz focuses on the talents of the performers as well as their hopes and fears for the future. Step, to director and subject alike, showcases the importance of the arts in school. Dance, theater and other artistic programs provide self-esteem boosts to discouraged students, encouraging them to literally “step up” to their challenges.

Loving Vincent Directed by Dorota Kobiela

Loving Vincent is an animated feature, of sorts. The film is nominated for a Best Animated Feature Oscar, but the style, detail and art directing go beyond an “animated” feature. Kobiela, inspired by Van Gogh’s correspondence with friends and family, created the film to showcase the intersection of Van Gogh’s artistic style and personal struggles. Every character, movement and scene is hand-painted, following Van Gogh’s trademark “flowing” Impressionist style.

by Culture staff illustration by Samantha West design by Nina Miller