This video, produced by “Feminist Frequency,” explains the concept of the “Bechdel Test.” The Bechdel test, created by Alison Bechdel, is a way to evaluate films with respect to their treatment of women. A film must meet the following criteria to pass the Bechdel test: (1) it has to have at least two women in it, who (2) who talk to each other, about (3) something besides a man. The video from Feminist Frequency describes how countless blockbusters films, as well as some of the industry’s most noted products, do not pass this simple test. It speaks to the dominance of male writers and producers in the entertainment industry.

discussion

Are you surprised by how many films do not pass the Bechdel Test? What does this fact say about the nature of the entertainment industry, specifically, and of our society, more generally?

Think about the most recent film that you watched. Does it pass the Bechdel Test?