Movies That Defy Gender Stereotypes

Last updated: May 19, 2026

Princesses and superheroes are great, and kids—no matter their gender!—love them. But child development experts agree that kids need to see a wide range of characters, displaying a range of traits, behaviors, and beliefs, in the media they consume. Why? When kids see stereotyped gender roles portrayed over and over in movies and on television, it can affect the way they think about themselves and what they can grow up to be. Our own research shows that these messages are aligned to periods in kids' development when kids are most receptive to their influence—which makes it even more important to look for positive gender portrayals in our kids' media. These are some of our favorite movies that do just that. For even more great ideas, check out TV Shows That Defy Gender Stereotypes and Movies with Positive Role Models for Boys.