Raising readers, dreamers, and doers
Stories can shape young minds, especially when featuring strong, intelligent, and fearless female leads. Watching movies together is a wonderful way to bond with your daughter while introducing her to inspiring role models from literature and history.
These films celebrate curiosity, resilience, and creativity—important qualities to nurture in women. Here are three that bring books to life and remind us why stories matter.
‘Miss Potter’
Before J.K. Rowling, there was Beatrix Potter. “Miss Potter” is a heartwarming and inspiring biopic of Beatrix Potter, popular author and illustrator of best-selling children’s books like “The Tale of Peter Rabbit.” Set in the 1900s, Beatrix’s struggle for love, happiness, and independence is still relevant today.
Renée Zellweger dons her British accent once more as Beatrix and reunites with her “Down with Love” costar Ewan McGregor, who plays her publisher and star-crossed lover, Norman Warne. Emily Watson ably supports the cast and plays his spinster sister Millie.
Sensitively directed by Chris Noonan, the movie appeals to children (despite the minimal use of animation). However, its interesting take on single, headstrong women and sweeping panoramas of the English countryside will also appeal to adult moviegoers looking for a change of pace. The melodrama is tastefully downplayed and the acting is perfectly restrained in line with the times.
Beatrix is every bit the curious, lovable, and sometimes silly heroine that she often uses as a base for her books’ characters. Beyond its charming visuals, “Miss Potter” teaches young viewers about perseverance, creative passion, and the importance of believing in oneself, even when society underestimates you. It will help encourage your daughter to chase her dreams.
Rating: 8/10
Parenting talk point: Discuss with your daughter how Beatrix defied expectations in a time when women were expected to marry rather than pursue careers. Ask her: What dreams do you want to follow, no matter the obstacles?
‘Nancy Drew’
If your daughter loves mysteries, “Nancy Drew” is a fun introduction to the world of fearless girl detectives. Emma Roberts plays the iconic teenage sleuth who brings a fresh spin on the classic book series.
Nancy tags along with her father Carson (Tate Donovan) on a business trip to Los Angeles, and sneakily chooses the house they would stay in, one with a mystery, of course! She quickly uncovers a long-buried Hollywood mystery: the unsolved murder of actress Dehlia Draycott, played by the hauntingly beautiful Laura Harring. Nancy later tracks someone who could be Dehlia’s daughter (Rachael Leigh Cook).
With the help of her quirky sidekick Corky (Josh Flitter) and hints of romance from her small-town boyfriend Ned Nickerson (Max Thieriot), Nancy takes on a case that adults have long ignored.
Unlike other general patronage movies that cleverly cater to adults by throwing in grown-up humor that goes over children’s heads, “Nancy Drew” focuses on its target tween audience. The costume crew must have had a field day with all the updated versions of Nancy’s 1950s-inspired outfits.
While the film stays lighthearted and family-friendly, it reinforces valuable lessons about curiosity, bravery, and the power of deduction. Although Roberts’ portrayal of Nancy feels a bit rehearsed, the film still captures the essence of a smart and determined heroine who doesn’t shy away from a challenge.
Rating: 6/10
Parenting talk point: Encourage your daughter to embrace problem-solving and critical thinking. Ask her: How would you approach solving a mystery in real life?
‘The Secret Life of Bees’
Written for the screen and directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood, “The Secret Life of Bees” is a deeply emotional and empowering film about sisterhood, resilience, and finding family where you least expect it.
The film is set in 1964 South Carolina, where the Civil Rights Act is being enforced and racism is at an all-time high. Against this backdrop unfolds a heartwarming drama based on Sue Monk Kidd’s bestselling novel about 14-year-old Lily Owens (Dakota Fanning) who accidentally killed her mother when she was little. Lily runs away from her abusive father T. Ray (Paul Bettany), with their housekeeper Rosaleen Daise (Jennifer Hudson). They find solace in the Pepto Bismol-hued home of the Boatwright sisters August (Queen Latifah), June (Alicia Keys), and May (Sophie Okonedo).
Fanning is riveting with her amazingly controlled emotional range; she seems to be one of those actors who can do no wrong. Bettany is a surprise, playing a vicious redneck that can still manage to elicit some twisted form of pity from the audience for his lot in life. I was hoping his story could have been fleshed out further. Latifah has come a long way from comedy and veritably anchors her scenes as the wise and nurturing August. Keys transitions easily from musician to movie star playing the haughty and fiercely independent June. Okonedo plays the gentle, mentally challenged May with great depth and sensitivity.
“The Secret Life of Bees” is a warm and toasty pause from the usual Hollywood fare. The film addresses themes of racism, loss, and healing, making it a powerful choice for older children and teens. While the film’s tone leans toward sentimental, it provides valuable lessons about self-worth, kindness, and the strength of female bonds.
Rating: 7/10
Parenting talk point: Discuss with your daughter the importance of kindness and standing up for what is right, even in difficult circumstances. Ask her: Who inspires you to be strong and compassionate?
More than entertainment, movies can spark meaningful conversations and shape how young girls see themselves and their potential. Whether through Beatrix Potter’s creative spirit, Nancy Drew’s sharp intellect, or Lily Owens’ resilience, these films offer role models who break barriers and chase their dreams. Happy Women’s Month!
