Metro Editors’ Picks: Favorite Female Characters from TV and Film

"I am woman, hear me roar"

Female roles in cinema and television have come a long way. There is no shortage in strong female characters onscreen with a plethora of diverse stories being portrayed, giving audiences all over the world a look into complex, complicated, intriguing, and inspiring women characters of all kinds.

As each decade passes by, stronger and fiercer female leads and characters dominate our screens—and we will never get enough of it. It is such a marvel to see, and we are so glad to witness and look to these characters for inspiration to make history, work hard, show up, and kick-ass, every single day. 

Below, the Metro editors share 11 of their favorite female characters from TV and film who have shown how amazing it truly is to be woman!

1. Buffy Summers in Buffy the Vampire Slayer

"One of my favorites growing up was Buffy Summers in Buffy the Vampire Slayer, played by Sarah Michelle Gellar. I remember being in awe of how feisty she was; she slayed even before that even became a slang. She's part of the reason why I'm such a horror/action genre fan now." — Grace Libero-Cruz, People Editor

2. Elle Woods in Legally Blonde

"I still love Elle Woods of the Legally Blonde movies. It tells me that I can be who I am authentically, pursue a passion, and be excellent at it without having to take myself too seriously. Elle Woods excelled when she got comfortable in her own skin, not pretending to be someone she wasn't!" — Kate Paras-Santiago, Beauty and Wellness Editor

3. Tess McGill in Working Girl

"Tess McGill (played by Melanie Griffith) in Working Girl is a classic female character breaking the glass ceiling in a male-dominated industry.  I was very young when I saw this film, but it made such a huge impact on the difference between how a woman would lead in the work place.  She struggled to be seen beyond a blonde bimbo, and at the end, when she gets her own office with a view, I just love how she told Alice, her assistant, that she doesn't expect coffee to be made for her unless Alice is making one for herself.  The scene shows how collaborative women really are, a trait that takes one far not just at work, but in all aspects of life." — Anna Rosete, Living Editor

4. Beth Harmon in The Queen’s Gambit

"Being a woman in a man’s world of chess is not easy to maneuver. For Beth Harmon (Anya Taylor Joy), a focused mind, not distracted by a love affair or a man, is a refreshing take on a female lead. As she traverses the industry, winning and losing chess matches, all against men, it’s an inspiring narrative on how to be at the top of your game not because of your gender but just because of pure skill." — Randz Manucom, Fashion Editor

5. Beatrix “The Bride” Kiddo - Kill Bill Vol. 1 and 2

"Who hasn’t seen the Kill Bill movies yet? Because you’d honestly be missing out big time. The cult classic Tarantino action flick sees (actual goddess) Uma Thurman bring to life the fearless, powerful, and very deadly character of The Bride in the most unforgettable way. Referred as “the deadliest woman in the world,” Kiddo has been leaving bodies piling in her wake as she seeks revenge on the very squad she used to be part of, the Deadly Vipers, who tried to kill her (and her unborn child!) in a wedding chapel. It’s not all epic martial arts scenes and mega-gory fashion—though that’s plenty of the fun—because it’s when Thurman’s character taps into a softer, maternal instinct that she shines as a woman, proving that there's strength in that, too." — Justin Convento, Culture Editor

6. Jo March in Little Women

"Highly independent, intelligent, but also kind and caring to her family. She’s practical and self-aware, but is also dreamy and hopeful." — Geolette Esguerra, Editor-in-chief

7. Elizabeth Bennet of Pride and Prejudice

"Who doesn’t love Elizabeth Bennet? She’s smart, witty, sassy, and true to herself. She shows her strength through really amazing dialogues." — Geolette Esguerra, Editor-in-chief

8. Annalise Keating in How to Get Away With Murder

"Strategic, intelligent, and brilliant despite being a flawed individual with a lot of secrets. She’s fiercely protective of those she loves and is willing to do everything—even to the point of getting away with murder." — Geolette Esguerra, Editor-in-chief

 9. Fox in Wanted

"Kick-ass female not afraid to show a man the ropes. Adhering to her own code of conduct and sticking to it until the end." — Geolette Esguerra, Editor-in-chief

10. Chu Qiao of Princess Agents

"She’s a kick-ass warrior with a sense of justice. She’s been on the receiving end of slavery and abuse, so throughout the series, she reclaims her narrative and comes into her own as a warrior." — Geolette Esguerra, Editor-in-chief

11. Fuyao of Legend of Fuyao

"This fighter starts her journey across different sects and kingdoms and finds herself gaining power through her own means. She also comes into her own as a leader and political figure." — Geolette Esguerra, Editor-in-chief