IWD 2017: The most powerful female superheroes on screen

When you think of films with empowering female characters you might focus on the likes of ‘Erin Brockovich’, ‘Wild’ or ‘The Blind Side’ but in reality the role of women on screen was revolutionised, far before any of these pictures existed, with what started on the pages of a comic book.

In a genre dominated by men (particularly ones in tight pants and capes) these inspiring women shine through and show that women can save the world too and break a barrage of stereotypes in the process.

The Ancient One – ‘Doctor Strange’

The Ancient One is a master of the magical arts. She taught many new sorcerers in the hidden compound of Kamar-Taj, and can manipulate both space and time by tapping into extra-dimensional energy. The Ancient One begins training Dr Steven Strange so that he can aid in stopping Kaecilius (a former student and traitor) who plans to open the dark dimension where time does not exist.

IWD: It’s getting better for female filmmakers
Wonder Woman set visit
IMDB adopts F-rating for female-friendly films

Although he learns quickly, Doctor Strange’s abilities pale in comparison to those of the Sorcerer Supreme. Despite being portrayed as a man in the comic books for over 50 years, Hollywood broke gender stereotypes casting the brilliant Tilda Swinton as a female version of the character.

Storm – ‘X-Men’

Storm has become one of the most identifiable faces of the X-Men with her flowing white hair and incredible weather-controlling abilities. We’ve seen Halle Berry bring the role to life throughout the X-men franchise with the younger version being portrayed by Alexandra Shipp in the latest saga.

From tribal beginnings in Kenya, to petty criminal in Cairo and on to being a teacher at Xavier’s School for Gifted Youngsters, Storm quickly developed into key member of the X-Men team and is as caring as she is formidable. Storm was one of the first major black superheroes and the first black female superhero.

She truly is a trailblazer: mess with Ororo Munroe and you could be at the mercy of a hurricane.

Black Widow – ‘The Avengers’

Natalia Alianovna Romanova, also known as Natasha Romanoff and by her alias ‘Black Widow’, was a deadly Russian spy who defected to the United States and became a member of The Avengers.

Scarlett Johansson stars as the biotechnologically-engineered, flame-haired Avenger who can take down a room full of assailants single handedly without the use of a mechanised suit, godly hammer or indestructible shield. Black Widow is one of the more level headed Avengers but that doesn’t make her any less deadly.

Scarlet Witch – ‘Avengers: Age of Ultron’

Wanda Maximoff was once a normal girl from the fictional nation of Sokovia, but soon became an extremely powerful advanced human after experimentation with Loki’s Scepter. The alias of Scarlet Witch arose once her energy manipulating abilities manifested, which appear as glowing red waves, blasts and bolts.

Despite originally siding against The Avengers, Scarlet Witch has since become a valued ally and saved countless lives. One of the characters key motives has been to alleviate strife, first siding with Ultron to save Sokovia before realising his true, dastardly intentions and siding with The Avengers.

Have your very own Movie Weekender this weekend in honour of International Women’s Day with the commanding queens of the superhero universe.

Keep up to date with the latest Blu-ray, DVD and Digital Download releases you can buy, watch, own and keep for the perfect Movie Weekender. Like MOVIE WEEKENDER on Facebook and follow @MovieWeekender on Twitter. Join the conversation via the hashtag #MovieWeekender

Read more
IWD: Women who challenged sexism on the red carpet
IWD: 25 women who changed history
IWD: Challenges faced by solo female travellers