Miss Representation

Written by Jessica Congdon and Jennifer Siebel Newsom

Directed by Jennifer Siebel Newsom

rating: 🏆 most excellent

This powerful documentary examines the portrayal of women in the American media. It looks at the harmful stereotypes, lack of complex characters, blatant ageism and objectification, and their direct links to the disempowerment of women. This disempowerment manifests itself in anxiety, depression, eating disorders, body dysmorphia, and more. It’s no secret that these are all incredibly relevant and important issues and I can not recommend this documentary highly enough. It also looks at the harmful lessons that men are taught by the media including toxic masculinity, and the unrealistic pressure to succeed and be emotionally detached. In order to move forward to create a better world, creative people hold incredible power. We can tell stories and play characters that challenge toxic stereotypes and create a dialogue that pushes for equality and the wellbeing of all peoples.

Review written by Zianna Weston