Share

10 surprising movies that pass the Bechdel Test

accreditation

If you’re not familiar with the concept, the Bechdel Test asks if a work of fiction features at least two women who are named and talk about something other than a man. 

The test was a way to call out gender inequality in films and make the mainstream media more aware of women in the media. 

Unfortunately there are a lot of mainstream movies that don’t pass this test, but here we have a look at a few movies that, surprisingly, do.

Ferris Beuller’s Day Off (1986) 

The film might be all about Ferris and getting into various shenanigans with his two friends, but this movie passes the test because Jeanie and Mrs Beuller regularly talk about something else besides Ferris or any other men. 

Image: Paramount Pictures

American Pie 2 (2001)

This movie is far from being a feminist film, but it surprisingly does pass the test as two of the women talk about clothes. So not a major win, but it still qualifies. 

Image: Universal Pictures

Stepford Wives (2004)

Both this remake and the original film actually pass the test even though it’s a movie that centres around a horde of robo women who are made to serve men.

Image: Rogerebert.com

Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy (2004)

Two female characters chat about cat fashion shows – not exactly what we’re looking for when we do get two female characters engage in conversation, but it’s a start in a very male-centric movie. 

Image: Dreamworks

Remember the Titans (2000)

The two coaches’ young daughters chat about dolls and football. It's very sweet and still keeping in theme with the film while making sure not every dialogue is centered around the male characters.

Image: Allposters.com

How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days (2003)

There’s lots wrong with this film, but there’s at least a scene where Andie and her female colleagues talk about jobs and sports.

Image: paramount pictures

Guardians of the Galaxy (2014)

Nebula saying to Gamora that she hated her the least out of all their siblings might not be the best reason for this movie to pass the Bechdel test, but it does. 

Image: Walt Disney Studios

The Karate Kid (1984)

Ali and Lucille, Daniel’s mom and girlfriend, talk about “popping the clutch” to make a car start. It’s not the most meaningful of interactions, but it’s enough to pass the test. 

Image: Colombia pictures

Die Hard (1988)

When Holly says to her assistant that she should join the party because she’s starting to feel like “Ebenezer Scrooge” – that’s the moment that makes the movie past the test. 

Image: 20th Century Fox

Snakes On A Plane (2006)

The conversation between Claire and Mercedes, the two flight attendants, before they get on the plane makes this film pass the test. Claire and Mercedes talk about their hope that they have easy going passengers on this flight. Oh, but little do they know what awaits them. 

Image: New Line Cinema

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE