By female protagonist, I mean a lead or co-lead in the film. Some films without a clear lead were also chosen because there were mostly female parts. Additionally, I am going with the gender the character identifies as so Ma Vie en Rose and Hedwig and the Angry Inch are included (though this one is more genderfluid).

Additionally, I only chose films which I rate as 4 stars or higher as a film. These are not at all based on my feelings about individual performances (if it were, there would be a lot more films on this list because some of the best female roles are not in my favorite movies).

I am, in no way, suggesting these are positive female characters (though many are), but as they are in great films, they tend to be better written, performed, and considered.

Sadly, even for someone who strives to see complicated women in film, 398 is still only 30% of all the films I rank 4 stars or higher. Nevertheless, I hope this list inspires you to check out these films and see a lot more female-led cinema. Clearly, we need more of them!*

These are in order based on my ratings 5 stars to 4.5 to 4 (otherwise quite randomly).

I did this by hand on my phone so I am sure to have missed some. Anyway, feel free to share films you rate 4+ with female leads. I hope I have a lot more to see.

*Take note aspiring filmmakers.