Being a woman has never been an easy thing. In the year of 2022, you would assume that womanhood would be made easier by time, reforms, laws, and more. But as of last week, society has once again proven that it is not interested in protecting women, especially women of color and trans women. Women (and anyone with a uterus) have a right to be angry and afraid. 

With the current state of things, it is more important than ever to be an active feminist. However, it can often be hard to navigate feminism in a society that is so heavily built on a foundation of misogyny. Unlearning internalized misogyny is a difficult task. However, you are not alone in your pursuit of knowledge and support.

Here are some video essays on the topics of feminism and feminity that offer unique perspectives and commentary on womanhood.

1. "A Monstress Comes of Age: Horror and Girlhood"

This video essay is a fascinating analysis of women within the horror genre. The essay does a wonderful job of explaining the role of women in horror films. Furthermore, the video explains how the genre both hurts women while simultaneously giving them a voice.

2. "How Hollywood Demonizes Ultra-Femininity"

This video essay offers commentary on the hyper-feminine trope that is so often seen in film and television. The video specifically calls out the use of ultra-feminine characters as a way to portray villainy or stupidity. Thus, a negative connotation is unfairly attached to the ultra-feminine woman.

3. “'Fleabag' and a New Era of Feminism"

Although "Fleabag" is known for it’s rather pessimistic portrayal of feminism, this video essay offers a more in-depth look at the positive aspects of feminism displayed in the popular television show. Furthermore, the video connects the “Fleabag era” trend as seen on TikTok to a new era of feminism.

4. "Legally Blonde: What the Girlboss Should’ve Been"

“Girlboss” was originally a term that positively depicted the ambition of self-made women. However, the definition of the word quickly warped into an internet joke and is now associated with unlikeable, manipulative, and “cringey” women. This video essay uses Legally Blonde as an example of how the term should actually be defined in relation to women and ambition.