This is the trailer for the movie version of Sex and the City (2008). It follows fashionista and writer Carrie Bradshaw, along with her three female best friends, as they deal with romance, dating and commitment in modern-day New York City. The film was a spin-off of a popular television show that ran on HBO from 1998-2004.

discussion

Based on this trailer, does the film reinforce or challenge traditional gender roles? Is this a progressive portrayal of women? Why/why not?

What can you infer about the protagonists’ financial situation? How is class communicated on screen?

Sex and the City has been described as a modern-day fairy-tale. Do you agree with this view? Specifically in regards to gender and romance, what fairy-tale elements can you identify here, and what strikes you as different?