Wonder Woman is just the beginning of a kickass year for women in film. If you enjoyed seeing Gal Gadot take on Diana Prince, you’ll love what’s coming next.
We’ve talked extensively about the impact Wonder Woman could potentially have on the DCEU, the superhero and action movie genre, and women in film in general. Now it’s time to look ahead at what other movies are coming up that’ll feature women in kickass roles — in 2017 and beyond.
Suki Waterhouse in ‘The Bad Batch’ — June 23, 2017
What it’s about: Arlen is abandoned in a Texas wasteland that is fenced off from civilization. While trying to navigate the unforgiving landscape, Arlen is captured by a savage band of cannibals led by the mysterious Miami Man. With her life on the line, she makes her way to The Dream. As she adjusts to life in the bad batch, Arlen discovers that being good or bad mostly depends on who’s standing next to you.
Why you’ll like it: If you like your women tough as nails, they don’t get any tougher than Arlen. She gave up an arm and a leg to get to where she is now, and there’s no way she’s going down without a fight. Just like Gal Gadot, Suki Waterhouse brings an unforgiving strength to her role.
Cara Delevingne in ‘Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets’ — July 21, 2017
What it’s about: In the 28th century, special operatives Valerian and Laureline work together to maintain order throughout the human territories. Under assignment from the minister of defense, the duo embarks on a mission to Alpha, an ever-expanding metropolis where diverse species gather to share knowledge and culture. When a dark force threatens the peaceful city, Valerian and Laureline must race against time to identify the menace that also jeopardizes the future of the universe.
Why you’ll like it: Just like Diana, Laureline knows what she wants and has no problem going after it herself. Sure, there’s a guy in the picture who’s willing to lend a hand, but both of these ladies are more than capable of taking care of themselves.
Charlize Theron in ‘Atomic Blonde’ — July 28, 2017
What it’s about: Agent Lorraine Broughton is equal parts spycraft, sensuality and savagery, willing to deploy any of her skills to stay alive on an impossible mission. Sent alone into Berlin to retrieve a priceless dossier from within the destabilized city, she partners with embedded station chief David Percival to navigate her way through a deadly game of spies.
Why you’ll like it: If you enjoyed every single fight scene in Wonder Woman, then Atomic Blonde is definitely for you. Patty Jenkins did a great job directing those scenes, but they don’t look like they’ll stand a chance next to the intense action we’re seeing from Director David Leitch.
Cate Blanchett and Tessa Thompson in ‘Thor: Ragnarok’ — November 3, 2017
What it’s about: Imprisoned on the other side of the universe, the mighty Thor finds himself in a deadly gladiatorial contest that pits him against the Hulk, his former ally and fellow Avenger. Thor’s quest for survival leads him in a race against time to prevent the all-powerful Hela from destroying his home world and the Asgardian civilization.
Why you’ll like it: If you loved Gal Gadot as the Amazonian princess of Themyscira, you’re definitely going to love Cate Blanchett (Hela) and Tess Thompson (Valkyrie) in Thor: Ragnarok. They both bear otherworldly skills, much like Diana, and you also get to choose whether you’ll root for the hero or the villain.
Daisy Ridley in ‘Star Wars: The Last Jedi’ — December 15, 2017
What it’s about: Having taken her first steps into a larger world in Star Wars: The Force Awakens (2015), Rey continues her epic journey with Finn, Poe and Luke Skywalker in the next chapter of the saga.
Why you’ll like it: We met Rey nearly two years ago now, so most of you will already know why she has a spot on this list. If you’re still wondering, however, you can chalk it up to her ability to balance a strength and vulnerability in equal measure. Just like Wonder Woman is a caring and formidable hero, Rey finds herself discovering an inner fortitude she didn’t know she possessed.
Honorable Mention
Lupita Nyong’o and Danai Gurira in ‘Black Panther’ — February 16, 2018
What it’s about: Black Panther springs into action when an old enemy threatens the fate of his nation and the world.
Why you’ll like it: This film doesn’t come out until next year, but considering the trailer just dropped, we couldn’t leave it off the list. Nyong’o and Gurira are just two of the many fearsome ladies we can look forward to seeing on screen next year, and just like Diana, they are willing to fight tooth and nail for what they believe in.