Feminists: What Were They Thinking?

Feminists: What Were They Thinking? is a thought-provoking documentary that seamlessly encapsulates the vibrant kaleidoscope of feminism in the late 20th century. It brilliantly dissects the various shades and strands of the feminist movement, with enriching insights from some of the most significant torchbearers of the time. Featuring renowned figures like Bella Abzug, Laurie Anderson, Phyllis Chesler, among many others, the film unreels the relentless resilience, zest, and valor these women imbued as they fought avidly for gender equality.

Directed by Johanna Demetrakas in 2018, Feminists: What Were They Thinking? takes root from a collection of photographs from 1977's groundbreaking feminist book, "Emergence" by Cynthia MacAdams. This movie unfurls those iconic black and white pictures and compels the world to listen to the personalities within them. Through these powerful photographs, the film recounts the audacious women who spearheaded groundbreaking changes in society and made the feminist movement a global catalyst for change.

Bella Abzug, a congresswoman famous for her tireless social activism, and Laurie Anderson, an eccentric, avant-garde artist, recount their different lived experiences through the era. While Bella lays bare the challenges faced by women in political arenas, Anderson delves into the significant role arts played in the feminist movement.

Dr. Phyllis Chesler is another notable voice in the film, whose, academic insights greatly deepen the discourse. As an established psychologist, Chesler shares wisdom and understanding about the psychological strains society imposes on women, and how confronting such constructs was an integral part of the feminist battle.

The women featured in the film not only emanate the personal struggles they underwent but also mirror the historic struggle women across the globe fought. Their stories are not limited to their personal battles but span across social, political and cultural sectors of society, highlighting the shared experience of misogyny and discrimination. This encouraging tapestry of passionate voices provides an immersive and multi-faceted perspective on the feminist revolution.

The filmmakers must be lauded for their ability to penetrate the surface and delve into the complexities which defined the feminist era and continue to resonate today. The movie emerges as an honest, empathetic, and appealing insight into women's lives, putting hardship, resilience, anger, joy, and laughter on full display. It disperses the misconception that feminism is a monolithic or binary concept, showcasing it as an eclectic, encompassing movement that champions not only gender equality but also touches upon intersectionality and diversity.

Feminists: What Were They Thinking? is not just a trip down memory lane but a vibrant dedication to women who dared to change the world, an ode to their courage, and a celebration of their spirit. As a documentary, it manages to retain its relevance in today's cultural context by drawing connections between the past and present, firmly asserting that the fight against gender inequality continues.

This film combines the power of photographs, personal narratives, social commentary, and historical anecdotes to present an enthralling portrait of the feminist era and its undying legacy. Beyond merely informing, it inspires and incites thought on how far we have come and how far we still need to go. It is a candid retrospection and a bold assertion of the feminist essence.

The film consistently relies on a consistently engaging storytelling approach, making it accessible even to those unfamiliar with the depths of the feminist movement. Through laughter, tears, triumphs, and struggles, the viewers are led to empathize and relate to the women behind the movement's success, simultaneously encouraging them to carry forward this essential dialogue into the future.

In conclusion, Feminists: What Were They Thinking? is a dynamic and enlightened exploration of the multifaceted feminist movement in the 20th century. This film tells the tale of a generation of courageous women who boldly dismantled patriarchal structures and reshaped societal norms. It is an empowering call to action that appeal viewers to reflect, question and continue the fight towards a gender-equal world.