The Best Written Female Roles in Hollywood: A Timeless Tribute

Throughout the history of cinema, Hollywood has showcased a plethora of iconic female characters who have left an indelible mark on our cultural consciousness. These characters have not only revolutionized the roles available to women but have also set a benchmark for actresses and filmmakers to follow. From the classic films of the 1940s to the modern blockbusters of today, we take a look at some of the most written and iconic female roles in Hollywood.

The Golden Age: Margaret Sullavan and Sigourney Weaver

In the golden age of Hollywood, the roles available to women were still quite limited, but actresses like Margaret Sullavan and Sigourney Weaver managed to break away from the typical damsel in distress trope and showcase their range as subjects of depth and complexity. Sullavan's role as Klara Novak in The Shop Around the Corner (1940) and Sigourney Weaver's portrayal of Ellen Ripley in the Alien franchise are prime examples of strong female characters who are both relatable and formidable.

The Shop Around the Corner is a delightful romantic comedy that features Klara Novak, a young woman who falls for her co-worker Alfred. However, the twist is that they do not actually know each other; the entire narrative is built around love letters that are mistakenly exchanged. The 1940s were a time when romantic comedies were often criticized for being shallow and superficial, but Sullavan's performance brought depth and nuance to her character, making it a standout in the genre.

Sigourney Weaver's Ellen Ripley in Alien (1979) is a far cry from the traditional damsel. Ripley is a seasoned space commander who must protect her crew from an extraterrestrial threat. Her role set the tone for powerful, intelligent female protagonists in action films, paving the way for other action heroes like

The New Wave: Emily Blunt and Elizabeth Taylor

The 21st century has seen a resurgence in the role of women in Hollywood, and actresses like Emily Blunt and Elizabeth Taylor have played pivotal roles in showcasing the full spectrum of female experiences. Emily Blunt's role in The Girl on the Train is a prime example of a character who is both complex and elusive. Her pregnant character, Rachel Gibson, struggles with alcoholism and memory loss, making her a deeply sympathetic but morally ambiguous figure. Blunt's performance captures the essence of this multifaceted character, highlighting the challenges of modern motherhood and mental health.

Elizabeth Taylor's portrayal of the eponymous Elizabeth in Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf? is another cornerstone of feminist cinema. Taylor's character is a former star of a TV series who now has to confront her crumbling marriage and the bracketing of her identity by her husband. Her performance is a powerful mix of intelligence, vulnerability, and defiance, making it one of the most memorable and impactful roles in feminist film history.

Modern Icons: Bette Davis and Shohreh Aghdashloo

Bette Davis is a name synonymous with iconic female roles. Her performance in All About Eve introduced audiences to a female character who was not just a silent victim but an active, manipulative, and ultimately diabolical force. Eve Harrington is a cafe waitress with a talent for ingratiating herself with a famous actress, Margo Channing, and eventually becoming her heir. Davis's portrayal is a brilliant mix of seduction and ruthlessness, making her one of the most complex and compelling characters of her era.

Shohreh Aghdashloo's role as Chrisjen Avasarala in the television series The Expanse is a modern equivalent of these classic roles. Avasarala is the responsible and moral leader of the United Nations Straits Office, and her character is a beacon of hope and strength in a dystopian universe where deception and betrayal are the order of the day. Aghdashloo's performance brings a sense of gravitas and purpose to her character, making her a standout among the galaxy's movers and shakers.

Conclusion

The best written female roles in Hollywood span decades and genres, from the classic romance of The Shop Around the Corner to the gritty realism of The Girl on the Train. These roles have not only entertained but also educated and inspired viewers, paving the way for a more inclusive and diverse future in film. As we look to the future, it's clear that the legacy of these incredible characters will continue to influence and inspire generations to come.