The term “woke” has become increasingly prevalent in recent years, often used to describe individuals or groups who are socially conscious and engaged in issues of justice and equality. In the realm of cinema, “woke” films are those that challenge social norms, promote progressive messages, and give voice to marginalized groups.
The Matrix (1999)
The Matrix (1999) is widely considered a “woke” film. It is a science fiction action film that explores philosophical themes such as reality, consciousness, and free will. The film has been praised for its innovative special effects, its stylish action sequences, and its thought-provoking themes.
Parasite (2019)
Parasite (2019) is widely considered a “woke” film. It is a South Korean black comedy thriller film that tells the story of the members of a poor family who scheme to become employed by a wealthy family by posing as unrelated, highly qualified individuals.
Moonlight (2016)
Moonlight (2016) is considered a “woke” film. It is a groundbreaking coming-of-age story that follows a young black man growing up in Miami. The film is a powerful and moving exploration of identity, sexuality, and self-discovery.
Get Out (2017)
This psychological uses horror tropes to expose the insidious nature of racism, both individual and institutionalized. The film shows how racism can manifest itself in subtle ways, and it highlights the dangers of white privilege.
Do the Right Thing (1989)
This comedy-drama film explores racial, class, and violence themes in a Brooklyn neighborhood. It is considered one of the most influential films of the 20th century. The film does not shy away from showing the ugly realities of racism, both institutionalized and interpersonal.
The Breakfast Club (1985)
This teen comedy film explores themes of social class, peer pressure, and conformity. It is considered a classic coming-of-age story. The film’s characters are all dealing with different challenges, from peer pressure to family problems, and their struggles are portrayed in a way that is both authentic and empathetic.
Black Panther (2018)
Black Panther, a 2018 superhero film released by Marvel Studios, has been hailed by some as a “woke” film, meaning that it is socially conscious and advocates for critical societal issues. Some people have criticized the film for being too simplistic in its portrayal of race and colonialism and for not doing enough to address the complex issues that face black people in the real world.
Hidden Figures (2016)
The film shows that African-American women are intelligent, capable, and deserving of respect. It challenges the stereotype that African-American women are not interested in or capable of pursuing STEM careers. According to some people, the film’s themes mean that Hidden Figures is one of the most “woke” movies of all time.
Dances with Wolves (1990)
Amidst the backdrop of breathtaking landscapes and captivating Native American traditions, the main character, Dunbar, grapples with divided loyalty. Torn between his duty as a soldier and his newfound respect for the Sioux people, he embarks on a path of introspection.
Wall-E (2008)
Some critics find Wall-E’s message about consumerism and environmentalism too straightforward and lacks nuance. They argue that the film doesn’t provide substantial solutions to these complex issues, instead offering a simplistic commentary on human behavior and its environmental impact.
I, Daniel Blake (2016)
Daniel Blake is also a critique of austerity measures, which are policies that aim to reduce government spending by cutting back on social programs. The film argues that these measures have a devastating impact on the lives of poor people, and it calls for a more compassionate and humane approach to social welfare.
Philadelphia (1993)
To Kill a Mockingbird (1962)
The film is set in the 1930s in the American South, where racial segregation and discrimination were rampant. The story follows Atticus Finch (Gregory Peck), a white lawyer who defends Tom Robinson, a black man falsely accused of raping a white woman. The film’s exploration of racial injustice is powerful and thought-provoking, but some view the film as being “woke.”
Born on the Fourth of July (1989)
Born on the Fourth of July promotes anti-war sentiment by showing the futility and destructiveness of war. The film’s message is that war should not be celebrated but avoided at all costs.
Boys Don’t Cry (1999)
Boys Don’t Cry was one of the first major Hollywood films to deal with the issue of transgender people in a mainstream way. The film was released in 1999 when transgender people were still largely invisible in American society. By making a film about this topic, Boys Don’t Cry helped to break down barriers and make transgender people more visible to the public.
Mean Girls (2004)
Mean Girls is a comedy about the social dynamics of high school, but it also has a lot to say about female friendship and empowerment. Mean Girls is a powerful and entertaining film that shows the importance of being true to yourself and finding your voice.
Do the Right Thing (1989)
This Spike Lee classic is a powerful and timely examination of race relations in America. The film follows a group of people living in a Brooklyn neighborhood on a hot summer day, and it explores issues of racism, prejudice, and violence. Do the Right Thing is a must-see film for anyone who wants to understand the complexities of race relations in America.
Dallas Buyers Club (2013)
Dallas Buyers Club is set in the early 1980s when the AIDS epidemic was ravaging the LGBTQ+ community. The film does not shy away from showing the harsh realities of the epidemic, and it is a powerful reminder of the discrimination and prejudice that people with AIDS face.
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