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Strong Female Character
Leading film critic of her generation offers an unflinchingly honest and humorous account of her millennial journey towards self-acceptance through a cinematic lens.
Hanna Flint speaks from the heart in Strong Female Character, a personal and incisive reflection on how cinema has been the key to understanding herself and the world we live in.
A staunch feminist of mixed-race heritage, Hanna has succeeded in an industry not designed for people like her. Interweaving anecdotes from familial and personal experiences - episodes of messy sex, introspection, and that time actor Vincent D'Onofrio tweeted that Hanna Flint sounded 'like a secret agent' - she offers a critical eye on the screen's representation of women and ethnic minorities, their impact on her life, body image and ambitions, with the humour and eloquence that has made her a leading film critic of her generation.
Divided into the sections Origin Story, Coming of Age, Adult Material, Workplace Drama and Strong Female Character, the book ponders how the creative industries could better reflect our multicultural society. Warm, funny and engaging and full of film-infused lessons, Strong Female Character will appeal to readers of all backgrounds and seeks to help us better see ourselves in our own eyes rather than letting others decide who and what we can be.
Hanna Flint speaks from the heart in Strong Female Character, a personal and incisive reflection on how cinema has been the key to understanding herself and the world we live in.
A staunch feminist of mixed-race heritage, Hanna has succeeded in an industry not designed for people like her. Interweaving anecdotes from familial and personal experiences - episodes of messy sex, introspection, and that time actor Vincent D'Onofrio tweeted that Hanna Flint sounded 'like a secret agent' - she offers a critical eye on the screen's representation of women and ethnic minorities, their impact on her life, body image and ambitions, with the humour and eloquence that has made her a leading film critic of her generation.
Divided into the sections Origin Story, Coming of Age, Adult Material, Workplace Drama and Strong Female Character, the book ponders how the creative industries could better reflect our multicultural society. Warm, funny and engaging and full of film-infused lessons, Strong Female Character will appeal to readers of all backgrounds and seeks to help us better see ourselves in our own eyes rather than letting others decide who and what we can be.
271 pages, Paperback
First published February 7, 2023
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558 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
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October 16, 2022This needs to be essential reading. For everyone.
From the very first page, I was mortified, enticed, captivated and obsessed. I couldn’t put the book down. I want to rewatch all these movies and play a drinking game every time a woman is put down. I understand why society has set so many abnormal standards on women, why women have set so many ridiculous standards for women.
On every single page, in every chapter, there was a film that either came out last week, or I grew up with or maybe my mum even showed myself and my sibling and it felt so natural to watch. Of course we need to shave our legs, of course periods are gross, these things aren’t desirable to men and I need to be perfect. How much of our lives are governed by these rules? Why do these things make us perfect?? Who decided they do?? I sincerely doubt it was women.
Please, please read this book. From cover to cover. It’s so worth it.
Thank you to the publishers for sending me a copy.
From the very first page, I was mortified, enticed, captivated and obsessed. I couldn’t put the book down. I want to rewatch all these movies and play a drinking game every time a woman is put down. I understand why society has set so many abnormal standards on women, why women have set so many ridiculous standards for women.
On every single page, in every chapter, there was a film that either came out last week, or I grew up with or maybe my mum even showed myself and my sibling and it felt so natural to watch. Of course we need to shave our legs, of course periods are gross, these things aren’t desirable to men and I need to be perfect. How much of our lives are governed by these rules? Why do these things make us perfect?? Who decided they do?? I sincerely doubt it was women.
Please, please read this book. From cover to cover. It’s so worth it.
Thank you to the publishers for sending me a copy.
January 7, 2025
Hanna Flint’s Strong Female Character is a powerful exploration of how the film industry reflects and reinforces societal values and stereotypes. From addressing sexual abuse to “picked empathy” for the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, Flint offers an inspiring and incisive analysis of why cinema matters. She doesn’t stop at the stories on screen but also examines the impact of producers, celebrities, and decision-makers within the industry, showing how their influence shapes the narratives we consume.
This book reads as a manifesto for understanding cinema’s role in both mirroring and molding society
This book reads as a manifesto for understanding cinema’s role in both mirroring and molding society
April 14, 2023
A fascinating blend of cinematic discourse and personal reflection, Flint addresses many vulnerable topics that speak to the experiences of women and marginalized communities. Filled with humor and insight, I highly recommend this read, especially if you have an interest in media.
Thank you Netgalley for providing a digital ARC.
Thank you Netgalley for providing a digital ARC.
April 22, 2023
review to come!
Read
September 4, 20242.8/5
September 14, 2025
truly seen
June 29, 2025
Nie znam większości filmów, o których była mowa, ale sama książka zawiera wiele cennych przemyśleń, spostrzeżeń i łączy wiele kropek
August 6, 2025
3.5 💫 I really enjoy it but for my personal taste this was way to long and repetitive
November 30, 2022
I was very kindly given an e-ARC of this book via Netgalley and Icon Books.
Hmm. There are aspects of this collection I loved - the film criticism, the lightning speed through which Flint examines so many aspects of so many global cinemas (it's so easy to stick to Western, I feel like I came out of this with a bunch of things to watch). There's an element of autobiography weaved into each essay, which took me a while to get used to, but did help enhance my enjoyment of the essays. My particular gripe is perhaps just a personal one - most of the essays were way too long. This book is less than 300 pages and it took me two non-consecutive attempts to finish it. I found my attention drifting as the point just kept being made and then elaborated and elaborated on, rather than turning to another idea. I don't know, I think it's my attention span. I just wish there had been a bit more editing done here. 'Forensic' is definitely the right word to use to describe the writing - I just don't know if my brain can handle that much depth for so long.
'Strong Female Character' is available now.
Hmm. There are aspects of this collection I loved - the film criticism, the lightning speed through which Flint examines so many aspects of so many global cinemas (it's so easy to stick to Western, I feel like I came out of this with a bunch of things to watch). There's an element of autobiography weaved into each essay, which took me a while to get used to, but did help enhance my enjoyment of the essays. My particular gripe is perhaps just a personal one - most of the essays were way too long. This book is less than 300 pages and it took me two non-consecutive attempts to finish it. I found my attention drifting as the point just kept being made and then elaborated and elaborated on, rather than turning to another idea. I don't know, I think it's my attention span. I just wish there had been a bit more editing done here. 'Forensic' is definitely the right word to use to describe the writing - I just don't know if my brain can handle that much depth for so long.
'Strong Female Character' is available now.
April 19, 2023
I am honestly shook. wow. i mean wow.
I’ve made it a 2023 goal to read at least 1 nonfiction book a month to widen my reading library and because of that i stumbled into this phenomenal book.
Honesty - everyone should read this. EVERYONE. NOT JUST FEMALES. 👏🏻
from page 1 i was immediately captivated. Throughout every single page you’re given movies that are recent or very popular throwbacks that support the idea that women should be perfect. and by perfect i mean - no period, no “negative aspects” to them, all the way to the idea of woman masterbation is unacceptable. WHY do we allow even movies to just put women down, look lower onto them and bring us all down to a lower level for simply being the way that we were created as women.
I feel like a lot of things that the author talked about were things i subconsciously knew - knew that i even felt the same way but wouldn’t admit to it because wouldn’t that make me imperfect or wrong? WELP NO. Hanna Flint says it alll, what needs to be said and what needs to be understood.
This is a phenomenal read. Definitely check it out if you’re wanting to expand upon your nonfiction catalog.
I’ve made it a 2023 goal to read at least 1 nonfiction book a month to widen my reading library and because of that i stumbled into this phenomenal book.
Honesty - everyone should read this. EVERYONE. NOT JUST FEMALES. 👏🏻
from page 1 i was immediately captivated. Throughout every single page you’re given movies that are recent or very popular throwbacks that support the idea that women should be perfect. and by perfect i mean - no period, no “negative aspects” to them, all the way to the idea of woman masterbation is unacceptable. WHY do we allow even movies to just put women down, look lower onto them and bring us all down to a lower level for simply being the way that we were created as women.
I feel like a lot of things that the author talked about were things i subconsciously knew - knew that i even felt the same way but wouldn’t admit to it because wouldn’t that make me imperfect or wrong? WELP NO. Hanna Flint says it alll, what needs to be said and what needs to be understood.
This is a phenomenal read. Definitely check it out if you’re wanting to expand upon your nonfiction catalog.
Read
May 18, 2023Prior to this I had never heard of Hanna Flint and I had never really taken into account all the topics she discusses in movies causing an issue in so many ways. I enjoyed her relating the topics of sex, discrimination, gender roles, hierarchy, race, rape culture, eating disorders to movies and from a film critics point of view. It was an interesting listen to recall a majority of the movies and make me pause and be like “hmm she has a point.” Not to mention the insight she brought to scenes and movies and actors I had no idea about.
The topics Flint elaborates on are discussions that need to be continued. Conversations need to be had about these things. Unfortunately, I think that the people that need to have the conversations are not the ones that are going to be picking up this book and reading it—but I hope that they are because so much needs to change.
Thank you NetGalley for the advanced readers copy of this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
The topics Flint elaborates on are discussions that need to be continued. Conversations need to be had about these things. Unfortunately, I think that the people that need to have the conversations are not the ones that are going to be picking up this book and reading it—but I hope that they are because so much needs to change.
Thank you NetGalley for the advanced readers copy of this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
March 4, 2024
I come from a different background to Flint but I connected so much to her experience, and as a lover of film, found a lot of truths in her desire for proximity and also constant disappointment in the characters and themes handed to us in widely revered films.
But there’s a lot of light in this book
But there’s a lot of light in this book
January 11, 2024
Triggered through this book so I didn't really enjoy it that much. But that's me and my own trauma lol and I so I am biased. Part memoir, part commentary, Hanna knows her stuff and I think this would be a great read for someone who is more into the film/rom-com/Disney princess movie scene!
January 23, 2023
An incredible book, a joy to read. Truthful, honest and refreshing from a unique perspective. I cried at a few points while reading it
November 22, 2023
finally finished a book!!!!!!!!
Read
April 2, 2024I am not particularly a movie person so the majority of the references she put in I did not understand. However, I felt like I learned so much about the TV and film industry through this book. The way the author weaves in perfectly chosen references to accompany her personal story is exquisite and beautifully done. And every chapter starts with a movie quote, how cool and unique!
The book has a variety of topics discussed, all chosen to represent the experience of women, especially mixed heritage women. Her descriptions of the struggles present within growing up as a woman who is half Tunisian and half White British are poignant; using commonly known beauty ideals for women, being vulnerable in admitting she compared her beauty to her White mother’s and lost. Also describing her battle with identity concerning her legal surname and the one she identified with allowed me to explore a deeper understanding of the role of our names in our selfhood.
The book’s exploration of romantic relationships was heartfelt and vulnerable, speaking to a wide relatable audience. Something I felt compelled by was when she alluded to the idea that once in a relationship, specifically a toxic one, you begin to see a discernible disconnect between the person you used to be and the person the relationship has formed you into.
Hanna speaks on subjects such as female pleasure depicted in films, the male gaze that guides it and body hair on women. She shares her opinion on representation within the movie critic and review field and how people from marginalised groups should not be seen as monoliths. The book shares explorations of how Arabs and Arab countries have continuously been used to depict dirt and poverty, while simultaneously perpetuating the ‘White-Saviour’ trope within films. Finally, in her surveying of media portrayal of women, women are seen as a spectacle, constantly adhering to the ever-shifting trends all the while learning that our bodies will never be truly our own.
I wish I could place this book in the hands of everyone, my favourite book I have read so far this year.
The book has a variety of topics discussed, all chosen to represent the experience of women, especially mixed heritage women. Her descriptions of the struggles present within growing up as a woman who is half Tunisian and half White British are poignant; using commonly known beauty ideals for women, being vulnerable in admitting she compared her beauty to her White mother’s and lost. Also describing her battle with identity concerning her legal surname and the one she identified with allowed me to explore a deeper understanding of the role of our names in our selfhood.
The book’s exploration of romantic relationships was heartfelt and vulnerable, speaking to a wide relatable audience. Something I felt compelled by was when she alluded to the idea that once in a relationship, specifically a toxic one, you begin to see a discernible disconnect between the person you used to be and the person the relationship has formed you into.
Hanna speaks on subjects such as female pleasure depicted in films, the male gaze that guides it and body hair on women. She shares her opinion on representation within the movie critic and review field and how people from marginalised groups should not be seen as monoliths. The book shares explorations of how Arabs and Arab countries have continuously been used to depict dirt and poverty, while simultaneously perpetuating the ‘White-Saviour’ trope within films. Finally, in her surveying of media portrayal of women, women are seen as a spectacle, constantly adhering to the ever-shifting trends all the while learning that our bodies will never be truly our own.
I wish I could place this book in the hands of everyone, my favourite book I have read so far this year.
August 25, 2025
I rarely read a memoir or biography, but I think the ties with film criticism caught my eye. Especially as we have culturally been getting “waves” of archetypes for Strong Female Characters but you don’t often see it discussed through literature. Flint discusses many throughout her book, from blaxploitation films to sci-fi action films to rom-coms to thrillers. She weaves her own life story and perspectives along the way.
I was not familiar with Flint’s work as a journalist, film critic, and interviews before this book, but now I am thoroughly intrigued. I did find some of the chapters overlong, and some of the film references were so quick, sometimes just a single line, that it felt both too long and too short.
The author does a great job at discussing her life and modern film history through an intersectional lens. Race, ethnicity, perceptions of race and ethnicity, mental illness, gender violence, fatphobia, Islamophobia, basically any type of Othering that we humans do gets a discussion under the perspective of women in film and many under Flint’s own life story.
Trigger warning of discussion molestation on the page, from recall. This chapter on rape that goes into portrayals in film and statistics in real life. It is very powerful, we get Flint’s strongest writing here. I was ready to ultra speed through it, but am glad to say it’s worth the read as long as you are in the right headspace.
One of my favorite quotes comes from that chapter, where Flint gives a rousing cry to the men who keep tweeting “not all men,” for the men who don’t understand the threat of gender violence and rape culture, for the men who need to actively take part in being the solution and not enabling other predators: “Off you go lads. Fill those roles. Run the campaigns. Take to the streets. Put hoes before bros. Convict some dicks. Be the superheroes you paid to see, who you see yourself in.”
This book is absolutely smashing as an audiobook, narrated by the author herself.
I don’t know if I would buy it if I hadn’t read it through an old NetGalley audiobook that I finally caught up with. I do think not paying for it may have affected my enjoyment. Not sponsored.
7/10 not objectively great, but subjectively enjoyable.
I was not familiar with Flint’s work as a journalist, film critic, and interviews before this book, but now I am thoroughly intrigued. I did find some of the chapters overlong, and some of the film references were so quick, sometimes just a single line, that it felt both too long and too short.
The author does a great job at discussing her life and modern film history through an intersectional lens. Race, ethnicity, perceptions of race and ethnicity, mental illness, gender violence, fatphobia, Islamophobia, basically any type of Othering that we humans do gets a discussion under the perspective of women in film and many under Flint’s own life story.
Trigger warning of discussion molestation on the page, from recall. This chapter on rape that goes into portrayals in film and statistics in real life. It is very powerful, we get Flint’s strongest writing here. I was ready to ultra speed through it, but am glad to say it’s worth the read as long as you are in the right headspace.
One of my favorite quotes comes from that chapter, where Flint gives a rousing cry to the men who keep tweeting “not all men,” for the men who don’t understand the threat of gender violence and rape culture, for the men who need to actively take part in being the solution and not enabling other predators: “Off you go lads. Fill those roles. Run the campaigns. Take to the streets. Put hoes before bros. Convict some dicks. Be the superheroes you paid to see, who you see yourself in.”
This book is absolutely smashing as an audiobook, narrated by the author herself.
I don’t know if I would buy it if I hadn’t read it through an old NetGalley audiobook that I finally caught up with. I do think not paying for it may have affected my enjoyment. Not sponsored.
7/10 not objectively great, but subjectively enjoyable.
May 10, 2023
In Strong Female Character, Hanna Flint takes readers on a journey through her personal experiences as a feminist of mixed-race heritage in the film industry, while also offering insightful commentary on the representation of women and ethnic minorities in cinema. The book is divided into five sections, each providing a different lens through which to view the importance of diverse representation in film.
Flint's writing style is witty and engaging, and her essays are filled with personal anecdotes that make her points resonate with the reader. While some may find the essays to be lengthy, they provide a unique perspective on the film industry and its impact on society. I appreciated how Flint provided film recommendations from around the world and challenged readers to broaden their horizons beyond the Western perspective.
Overall, Strong Female Character is an important read for those interested in feminist literature and the movie industry's disparities. It offers a critical eye on the representation of women in cinema, and how it shapes our perception of strong female characters. If you're looking for a thought-provoking discussion on the impact of cinema on our lives, body image, and ambitions, this book is definitely worth a read.
Flint's writing style is witty and engaging, and her essays are filled with personal anecdotes that make her points resonate with the reader. While some may find the essays to be lengthy, they provide a unique perspective on the film industry and its impact on society. I appreciated how Flint provided film recommendations from around the world and challenged readers to broaden their horizons beyond the Western perspective.
Overall, Strong Female Character is an important read for those interested in feminist literature and the movie industry's disparities. It offers a critical eye on the representation of women in cinema, and how it shapes our perception of strong female characters. If you're looking for a thought-provoking discussion on the impact of cinema on our lives, body image, and ambitions, this book is definitely worth a read.
April 25, 2023
I’d never heard of Hanna Flint before requesting this advance audiobook copy. I was intrigued by the blurb and interested in hearing her thoughts on the depictions of women in film. She struck a perfect balance between discussing her life & experiences, and relating them to characters in film. At the end of each chapter, I’d think that was my favorite, only to feel the same about the next. From a discussion of race and femininity in Disney films to the exploration of rape, exploitation & consent in film, the whole book was 🤌 for women who enjoy watching movies (which is likely almost all women! 😂).
*Thanks to Dreamscape Media & NetGalley for the advance audio listener copy for review
*Thanks to Dreamscape Media & NetGalley for the advance audio listener copy for review
January 30, 2023
Because of NetGalley I was given access to this title and wow! From the very first page I was captivated by Hanna’s use of language and shocked by how saturated my childhood was with white women. It’s a thought provoking book of essays which makes you want to rewatch every thing she’s mentioned! As a media student this would’ve been classed as essential reading and would’ve really helped with my own dissertation.
May 8, 2023
4.5 stars
I really enjoyed this book. The writer had an interesting way of weaving together personal anecdotes with pop-culture references, and I generally enjoyed her direct style of storytelling. While the focus of the book was definitely on movies and their treatment of female characters, I appreciated that discussions of major television shows/series were also included. This was an entertaining and engrossing read.
An ARC of this book was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I really enjoyed this book. The writer had an interesting way of weaving together personal anecdotes with pop-culture references, and I generally enjoyed her direct style of storytelling. While the focus of the book was definitely on movies and their treatment of female characters, I appreciated that discussions of major television shows/series were also included. This was an entertaining and engrossing read.
An ARC of this book was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 26, 2024
**Thanks to NetGalley for providing me with an ARC. This was in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.**
A fantastic look at film and the influence films (and popular culture on screen) can have on us, especially as women. Flint tells us the lessons she learnt from different movies as she grew up, making parallels with events and milestones of her life.
There were moments when I felt so seen and understood I wasn't alone going through weird stuff growing up. Absolutely loved it.
A fantastic look at film and the influence films (and popular culture on screen) can have on us, especially as women. Flint tells us the lessons she learnt from different movies as she grew up, making parallels with events and milestones of her life.
There were moments when I felt so seen and understood I wasn't alone going through weird stuff growing up. Absolutely loved it.
March 9, 2023
This book was made for women who can track the progression of their lives by their own personal filmography! It’s for those of us who can pinpoint a moment in our lives by the film they were obsessed with during that moment in time. Hanna Flint lays herself bare in this memoir and the vulnerability she shares with us is something to be cherished. Thank you, Hanna! I will see you at the movies.
April 18, 2023
Thanks to NetGally, publisher, and author Hanna Flint for an advanced version of this beautiful audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
Honestly, there is so much to unpack and discuss with this book I’m unsure where to start. Author Hanna Flint has created a beautiful narrative taking from her own life experiences and naming things we have seen in depicted and behind the scenes in cinema for decades.
The rawness and vulnerability shown by this author is incredible, this book tackles many topics and hard conversations, such as; intimate partner violence, mental health disorders, disordered eating, sexual assault, racism, and misogyny.
Hanna writes in a way that connects past and current films and media depiction in a way that is digestible, thought provoking, interesting, and relatable.
Honestly, there is so much to unpack and discuss with this book I’m unsure where to start. Author Hanna Flint has created a beautiful narrative taking from her own life experiences and naming things we have seen in depicted and behind the scenes in cinema for decades.
The rawness and vulnerability shown by this author is incredible, this book tackles many topics and hard conversations, such as; intimate partner violence, mental health disorders, disordered eating, sexual assault, racism, and misogyny.
Hanna writes in a way that connects past and current films and media depiction in a way that is digestible, thought provoking, interesting, and relatable.
January 25, 2023
A fantastic, and provoking book that is a must for any cinephile. Flint writes exceptionally with exciting, intimate, and witty prose.
March 13, 2023
I really want to use some chapters of this for an English class. Loved it!
August 8, 2023
Hanna Flint, Strong Female Character, Footnote Press February 2023.
Thank you NetGalley for providing me with this uncorrected proof for review.
Hanna Flint has compiled a compelling autobiography with a mixture of events from her life and their connections to a host of films – those that she admires, and those which she disparages. More than this, her story has links to other women, people from diverse backgrounds, the film industry, and social change. It is a book that cannot be read without being challenged. Sometimes that challenge is directed to the language Flint uses, which at times seems blatantly provocative. However, more importantly, her analysis of ideas that permeate society and are perpetuated by film create debates well worth having. In using examples from the films she has viewed, the autobiography projects a broader world than usual when people write their story.
Flint begins her discussion of her childhood with her search for a doll that reflects her physique – none is available, and the impact on this young girl is that there is a female ideal, and she is not it. This is not a new idea, it has been debated along with other targets impacting on childhood understandings of what is perfect, what is needed to measure up and the failings associated with not doing so. Nevertheless, this makes an excellent beginning to an autobiography that is different. It will be interesting to read any analysis Flint might make of the recently released Barbie.
Flint groups her experiences under the headings Origin Story, Coming of Age, Adult Material, Workplace Drama and Strong Female Character. Within these sections some of the subheadings provide clues to the way in which Flint comes to topics that are typical in an autobiography but demonstrate how the typical becomes atypical under her clever, formidable and provocative hand. ‘By Order of the Princess’ is, of course an introduction to Flint’s search for a princess doll that looks like her. Flint’s princess is clearly not to be about an inanimate object, her story will have movement, almost tragedy. ‘What a Hunk’ introduces the idea of the ideal male, and yes, this is so – Flint’s first crush. However, this predictable story quickly morphs from the value of being seen and the tragedy of losing that image of place and stature to the introduction of the film Little Giants and its impact on Flint. One of the most powerful and distressing chapters is ‘I can’t even remember to shave my legs’ detailing the important role of hair in a woman’s life. Under Workplace Drama an expected subheading is ‘My native habitat is the Theater’. But Flint moves from the family watching movies, dreams of becoming an actress, to details about some of the films that have impacted on her life, and her eventual start in the workplace. Whatever the topic, film and discussion of characters, ideas and plots are a mainstay of the chapters, ensuring that this autobiography weaves life, film, ideas and social commentary together in a work that begs to be read again.
Strong Female Character is a compelling read, flawed at times though I found it. The writing is accessible, the ideas interesting and the whole a relatively easy read. This is such an important aspect of this book – it needs to be read, the ideas need to permeate the film, women’s and the wider worlds, and Hanna Flint has assisted substantially in meeting this demand.
Thank you NetGalley for providing me with this uncorrected proof for review.
Hanna Flint has compiled a compelling autobiography with a mixture of events from her life and their connections to a host of films – those that she admires, and those which she disparages. More than this, her story has links to other women, people from diverse backgrounds, the film industry, and social change. It is a book that cannot be read without being challenged. Sometimes that challenge is directed to the language Flint uses, which at times seems blatantly provocative. However, more importantly, her analysis of ideas that permeate society and are perpetuated by film create debates well worth having. In using examples from the films she has viewed, the autobiography projects a broader world than usual when people write their story.
Flint begins her discussion of her childhood with her search for a doll that reflects her physique – none is available, and the impact on this young girl is that there is a female ideal, and she is not it. This is not a new idea, it has been debated along with other targets impacting on childhood understandings of what is perfect, what is needed to measure up and the failings associated with not doing so. Nevertheless, this makes an excellent beginning to an autobiography that is different. It will be interesting to read any analysis Flint might make of the recently released Barbie.
Flint groups her experiences under the headings Origin Story, Coming of Age, Adult Material, Workplace Drama and Strong Female Character. Within these sections some of the subheadings provide clues to the way in which Flint comes to topics that are typical in an autobiography but demonstrate how the typical becomes atypical under her clever, formidable and provocative hand. ‘By Order of the Princess’ is, of course an introduction to Flint’s search for a princess doll that looks like her. Flint’s princess is clearly not to be about an inanimate object, her story will have movement, almost tragedy. ‘What a Hunk’ introduces the idea of the ideal male, and yes, this is so – Flint’s first crush. However, this predictable story quickly morphs from the value of being seen and the tragedy of losing that image of place and stature to the introduction of the film Little Giants and its impact on Flint. One of the most powerful and distressing chapters is ‘I can’t even remember to shave my legs’ detailing the important role of hair in a woman’s life. Under Workplace Drama an expected subheading is ‘My native habitat is the Theater’. But Flint moves from the family watching movies, dreams of becoming an actress, to details about some of the films that have impacted on her life, and her eventual start in the workplace. Whatever the topic, film and discussion of characters, ideas and plots are a mainstay of the chapters, ensuring that this autobiography weaves life, film, ideas and social commentary together in a work that begs to be read again.
Strong Female Character is a compelling read, flawed at times though I found it. The writing is accessible, the ideas interesting and the whole a relatively easy read. This is such an important aspect of this book – it needs to be read, the ideas need to permeate the film, women’s and the wider worlds, and Hanna Flint has assisted substantially in meeting this demand.
August 20, 2024
Some chapters stronger than others, very conversational writing style and a really interesting and unique insight into the film industry.
February 25, 2025
In Strong Female Character, Hanna Flint takes readers on a journey through her personal experiences as a feminist of mixed-race heritage in the film industry, while also offering insightful commentary on the representation of women and ethnic minorities in cinema. The book is divided into five sections, each providing a different lens through which to view the importance of diverse representation in film.
Flint's writing style is witty and engaging, and her essays are filled with personal anecdotes that make her points resonate with the reader. While some may find the essays to be lengthy, they provide a unique perspective on the film industry and its impact on society. I appreciated how Flint provided film recommendations from around the world and challenged readers to broaden their horizons beyond the Western perspective.
Overall, Strong Female Character is an important read for those interested in feminist literature and the movie industry's disparities. It offers a critical eye on the representation of women in cinema, and how it shapes our perception of strong female characters. If you're looking for a thought-provoking discussion on the impact of cinema on our lives, body image, and ambitions, this book is definitely worth a read.
Flint's writing style is witty and engaging, and her essays are filled with personal anecdotes that make her points resonate with the reader. While some may find the essays to be lengthy, they provide a unique perspective on the film industry and its impact on society. I appreciated how Flint provided film recommendations from around the world and challenged readers to broaden their horizons beyond the Western perspective.
Overall, Strong Female Character is an important read for those interested in feminist literature and the movie industry's disparities. It offers a critical eye on the representation of women in cinema, and how it shapes our perception of strong female characters. If you're looking for a thought-provoking discussion on the impact of cinema on our lives, body image, and ambitions, this book is definitely worth a read.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews