52 Films By Women: December

As 2017 draws to a close, there are a few final films to be added to the list of #52FilmsByWomen. Thanks to everyone who got involved this year! As ever, join the discussion and tweet me at @filmvsbook.

FIRST-TIMERS

The Greatest Showman (Cinema), co-written by Jenny Bicks

Joyous and full of catchy tunes, The Greatest Showman is an absolute delight, with brilliant performances from Hugh Jackman, Zendaya and Zac Efron.

For the full review, click here.

See also: For some animated joy (and great catchy tunes) check out Frozen, co-written and co-directed by Jennifer Lee.

Carrie Pilby (Netflix UK), written by Kara Holden and directed by Susan Johnson

Carrie Pilby is a mix of feisty and funny and really heartbreaking and sweet. Carrie is a genius but one with a difficult relationship with her father and one who struggles to connect with those around her. When her shrink helps her devise a list to help her try to break out of her comfort zone and try new things, events take a surprising turn.

The film has great warmth and wit.

See also: Check out the brilliant Tallulah, written and directed by Sian Heder. It’s on Netflix and it has Ellen Page and Allison Janney at its centre. What’s not to love?

The Lifeguard (Netflix UK), written and directed by Liz W. Garcia

A brilliant story that looks at a woman approaching thirty and struggling with where her life has taken her. When she returns home to live with her parents, she finds herself regressing to her teenage self in attitude and activities. And it doesn’t go down well.

The Lifeguard offers a dramatic and poignant look at what happens when you don’t have everything figured out but everyone around you expects you to.

See also: Their Finest, from Lone Scherfig, is on Netflix and is a gorgeous mix of fun and drama.

For the full look back on all the films that made the list this year, check out my report.