10 Female movie leads that dominated the entire runtime

It is very common to see females on screen as supporting characters and rarely as lead roles, that too as strong lead characters. The supporting character roles usually revolve around the male protagonist's universe. However, with time, the surge of women-centric movies has become a breath of fresh air in the film industry.

These women are not just characters but forces of nature. They drive the plot and shape the world around them. This list celebrates such characters who have carried their movies on the soldiers and did not break a sweat. From historical figures to futuristic warriors, these performances of female movie leads are an indelible part of cinematic history.

Let's explore their characters that have fought for justice with unwavering determination and set an example. These stories are authentic and resonate with the viewers because of their intellectual prowess and emotional depth.

So, let's dive into the 10 Female movie leads that dominated the entire runtime.

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1)Legally Blonde

Elle Woods is one of the best female leads among movies with strong female characters. She has transcended from screens and become an example of reclaiming power and subverting expectations. From the beginning of the movie, we see Elle as a character that everyone underestimates.

From her ex-boyfriend to her parents. When her boyfriend breaks up with her, she becomes determined to win him back. In the process, she studies hard to pass the difficult exam to get an admission into Harvard Law School where his boyfriend went. She refused to conform to the serious lawyer stereotype after becoming a lawyer and maintained her individuality even while excelling academically.

Elle's success is a feel-good moment and inspires everyone around her. She has created an environment where women thrive and flourish. She has undoubtedly dominated throughout the movie and resonated with the viewers.

2)Barbie

Margot Robbie’s portrayal of Barbie in the movie Barbie is iconic, especially because there has not been a single moment when she has not dominated the screen. Barbie’s existential crisis as she suddenly finds herself while confronting the realities of the world resonated with the viewers. Though every character in the movie has played a significant role in bringing out the essence of it, Barbie’s contribution is undeniable.

Barbie has become a symbol of femininity, reflecting the challenges and the complex expectations from women in society. Making a character iconic requires the actor’s capabilities, and Margot Robbie has done a commendable job. The focus on personal evolution has made her the central figure in the movie.

3)The Devil Wears Prada

Yet another iconic movie with a lead that has not only dominated the entire screentime but has also left a lasting impact on the viewers. Miranda Priestly is an iconic female movie lead. She is not just the editor-in-chief of Runway Magazine but so much more.

Her personality has an absolute control on the screen. Her ways, her gestures, and her way of talking, everything about her dictates the surroundings. Miranda Priestly is not someone to be trifled with, she commands respect, demands it. Her understanding of the fashion world and ability to shape trends masterfully make her the primary focus.

The Devil Wears Prada is incomplete without her. The combination of professional power and physiological manipulation has left an indelible mark on the viewers.

4)Hidden Figures

Hidden Figures is not just about one lead but three iconic leads in one single movie. These female leads have stolen the show throughout the movie. Kathrine Jackson’s exceptional mathematical capabilities were the central plot of the film. Her capability for precise calculations was a crucial part of NASA’s space mission, especially for astronaut John Glenn.

She became an indispensable part of the space program, overcoming the discrimination and racism that she had felt throughout. Dorothy Vaughan’s story is all about leadership. Yet another female movie lead with leadership and strategic thinking that saved the day. Mary Jackson’s challenges as the first female African American engineer resonate with perseverance and fighting for equal opportunity.

5) Wonder Woman

Diana’s journey in Wonder Woman truly has been an iconic one. From her departure from Themyscira to her introduction to the horrors of World War I, she has truly dominated the screen. Superhero movies are often dominated by men. To carry a film single-handedly takes enough talent, and Gal Gadot has done it in Wonder Woman easily.

Diana’s presence in Wonder Woman is like a breath of fresh air that has resonated with the audiences worldwide. Diana’s actions have been the driving factor in the movie, and her unique perspective inspires those around her. The themes of compassion heightened by justice and the human spirit have left an indelible mark on the viewers.

6)Brave

Unlike other princess stories we are accustomed to, Merida is different. She is defiant and refuses to conform to society’s expectations. She directly challenges the patriarchal society by doing everything the society deems wrong for a woman.

She impulsively seeks a spell that transforms her mother into a bear; however, she also does not back down from rectifying her mistakes and taking accountability for her actions. Merida’s journey of self-discovery makes her one of the strongest female movie leads. Her story is a testament to her strength, determination, and the power of individual choice.

7)Mad Max: Fury Road

Imperator Furiosa, the undeniably strong female lead of Mad Max: Fury Road, has brought a powerful narrative to the movie. Her moral compass is commendable, considering her primary drive was to save the wives of Immortan Joe from his captivity.

Her quest to return ot her homeland has added a layer of personal touch, revealing her longing for a lost world and a desire for redemption. She is a formidable warrior; throughout the movie, she shows incredible skills that leave a lasting impact on the viewers.

Despite having a prosthetic, she has the determination and unwavering spirit that has resonated with the viewers. In a world where tyrannical men dominate, Furiosa is a symbol of women’s strength.

8)The Hunger Games

Katniss Everdeen’s presence in The Hunger Games is fundamental to the story. She is an iconic symbol of resistance and survival. She is capable physically but has a complex character that drives the narrative. She can impact the world around her.

Katniss grew up in a place of scarcity, she had to develop her survival skills. Her expertise in hunting and archery gave her a significant advantage in the games. Her skills are undoubtedly an extension of her character, making her one of the strongest female movie leads. Her rebellious nature demonstrates the power of individual resistance against oppressive systems. She embodies strength and authority in a world designed to break these qualities.

9)The Help

Aibileen is the central character in the movie The Help. Her contribution has been the driving factor in the film. She has served as the crucial anchor in the narrative. Abileen's voice guided the audience while providing critical information and insight into the lives of the black domestic workers in the 1960s. Her story sets the entire movie in motion.

Her strong portrayal as the movie's female lead imbued with a quiet dignity and strength that has set an example. She represents the everyday heroes that have faced the oppressive nature of the world but still find the strength to try and change things.

10)Suffragette

Yet another thought-provoking movie with a strong female lead, Maude Watts, portrayed by Carey Mulligan, dominating the screen throughout the film. Though the movie has an ensemble cast, Mayd Watts serves as the primary narrative thread. She begins as an ordinary working class woman with very limited awareness of the political struggle.

This helps the viewers to view the Suffragette movement from an evolving point of view. Maud’s awakening in the movie is a turning point that resonates with the viewers. She highlights the experience of the working class, adding depth in complexity. Carey Mulligan’s performance is truly iconic in this movie, making the historical events feel immediate and relevant.

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