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Entertainment has traditionally been a male-led industry, but now things are changing. Names like Jenna Ortega and Zendaya are emerging as new norms, capable of drawing large audiences, marking a significant shift from what we saw 10-20 years ago.
We’ve seen films likeBarbieandBlack Panther: Wakanda Forevergrossing or nearing the $1B mark with ease. Meanwhile, OTT platforms are investing in series centered on female-led storytelling.WednesdayandThe Queen’s Gambithave been embraced by fans and showcase the talent of the industry’s leading women. But how sustainable is this shift?
What’s the major problem that women are having in the industry?
Equality in the entertainment industry might not be achieved anytime soon. When it comes to the quality of acting, Meryl Streep doesn’t have a lesser legacy than Tom Hanks, but Hanks has always drawn and continues to draw a larger audience. Similarly, a top-tier actress likeMargot Robbiewill likely attract fewer viewers on her own compared to a mid-tier male actor.
Fundamentally, you’re able to’t blame the industry, as it’s the audience that determines market value. The industry is primarily here for business—charity and social services are secondary. Films likeTarwill emerge when females are the focus, but in comparison, hundreds of male-oriented films will still be made. There’s a significant imbalance.
Jenna Ortega Earns Fans’ Respect For Her James Bond Comments While Zoe Saldaña Gets Criticised For Wanting to Make Her Directorial Debut in $7.8 B Franchise
In the realm of art films and series, women do find their place. FromMare of Easttownto Tar, the list goes on. But when it comes to action films, you’ll need a microscope to find female representation, as the percentage of actresses is much lower in that genre. Even when there are female-led franchises, they sometimes feel like rip-offs of male-led brands. For example,Enola Holmesattempts to capitalize on Sherlock Holmes, whileBirds of Preyis a spin onSuicide Squad.
Did Jenna Ortega leave one of the biggest chances of her life for no reason?
Agree or not, Ortega has a point. Though women are rising in the industry, what’s lacking is raw originality.Jenna Ortega, known for her standout roles inWednesdayand the upcomingBeetlejuice Beetlejuice, recently shared her thoughts on the portrayal of women in action franchises. While she appreciates the increase in female-led films, Ortega believes Hollywood should focus on creating fresh, original stories centered around women rather than reimagining existing male roles.
She pointed out that iconic franchises shouldn’t be repurposed with gender-swapped leads, like “Jamie Bond,” but instead should give rise to new, compelling female characters.
But we should have our own — I don’t like it when it’s like a spinoff — I don’t want to see like ‘Jamie Bond.’ You know? I want to see another badass.
This perspective echoes comments from industry figures like Barbara Broccoli and Ana de Armas, who have also expressed a preference for developing unique female roles. In some cases, the usage of actresses is quite disrespectful, casting them as “bombshells” or adding “sex appeal,” which shouldn’t be the case.
And when they aren’t playing the sidekick of the hero, they are often imitating a male actor from an established franchise. Should things change? Absolutely. Ortega has a strong case, and while fans might not see her in a “Jamie Bond” role or a major action spin-off, her point could spark the flame of empowerment for female leads.
She has made a very valid point but Hollywood wouldn’t listen they would rather have spin offs or make a copy female version of a character and it will tank at the box office
I absolutely agree that the answer is more well-written female leads rather than just rewritten men’s roles. Everyone deserves better than that.pic.twitter.com/XlH3eTkv2A
In terms of business, yes, the change will be tough at first, but no shift is easy. Films likeKill Billhave always been exceptions, breaking traditional norms, and it’s now the turn of new faces like Jenna Ortega to reshape perceptions in the industry. So, don’t be disappointed that she didn’t become part of a $7.8B franchise. Be happy that she is driving real change.
Meanwhile, you can watchBeetlejuice Beetlejuicein the theatres, released on 6th September.
Rahul Bandyopadhyay
Articles Published :7
Rahul is the definition and the embodiment of being a movie nerd, from DC to sitcoms, from American cinema to Iranian masterpieces, he loves everything. Did his graduation in English Literature, has a keen interest in storytelling and with FandomWire, he is on a mission to do so.Being a movie lover, definitely has his weakness, like a well crated Nolan film to Snyder’s Slow-Mo to even Anderson’s beautiful shots. But rest is completely unbiased, though if you talk about HIMYM, he can’t bear with any negative opinions on Ted.
