The Bechdel Test: 38 Years Later, and We’re Still Flunking

The Bechdel Test was invented in 1985, but representation of women in movies hasn’t seen much improvement.

On Tuesday, I examined the “male gaze” in movies and TV shows and how it damages real-life relationships. Coined by Laura Mulvey in 1973, “the male gaze” refers to the fact that in movies and TV shows, women are depicted in a way that satisfies the desires and interests of the male characters; their own goals and personalities are secondary. Asked if the male gaze on TV or in film impacted how you viewed women in general, the majority of respondents noted indeed, it did.

Today, we’re talking about another feminist perspective in pop culture: the Bechdel test. 

---

Here’s what’s ahead in this email for paid subscribers:

• What is the Bechdel test?

• The Bechdel Test: Passes and Fails

• The Intersection of Feminism and Race

• A Bechdel Test Movie Challenge

• [Video] Personal Message from author of Emotional Labor, Rose Hackman, to everyone reading along in this month’s book club.

• Discussion Questions/Reflection Prompts for Book Club

• Registration link for a LIVE BOOK CLUB DISCUSSION June 26th 6:00pm pst

---