Hollywood Heroines of 2012

Each year the big screens are flooded with images of women and girls as love-struck teens and dysfunctional adults. 2012 brought us something different – something refreshing. Strong women starred in many of the most successful films of the year. Let’s look back at some of 2012’s heroines who defied the stereotypes associated with women and girls.

The Hunger Games. Adapted from the young adult novel by Suzanne Collins, “The Hunger Games” stars 16-year-old Katniss Everdeen as the main protagonist. She is a skilled hunter and born survivor, escaping death multiple times and surviving until the end of the Games. The film is one of a handful of films to feature a female action star, and Jennifer Lawrence, the actress who played Katniss, was nominated for the “Favorite Face of Heroism” award at the People’s Choice Awards and “Best Hero” at the MTV Movie Awards. Look for Katniss to return in the sequel, “Catching Fire,” in theaters November 2013. 

Brave. Perhaps the most iconic redhead of the year, Merida is a young princess who covets her own independence. When three men arrive to battle for her hand in marriage, she enters herself into the contest with the hopes of winning, and choosing her own fate. By the end of the film, she rescues her family and kingdom from an evil spell. “Brave” is the first movie from Disney Pixar to feature a strong female lead.

Snow White and the Huntsman. With all of the behind-the-scenes drama aside, “Snow White and the Huntsman” is a much edgier version of the childhood tale we all know. Snow White, played by Kristin Stewart, awakens from the Queen’s spell, infiltrates her majesty’s castle, and kills her in the end. There is no singing with wholesome woodland creatures, instead the film explores the challenges Snow White must overcome challenges to regain her freedom. 

Can’t get enough girl-power? Check out some of the moments that mattered for female empowerment in 2012, as well as top leaders to watch. 

–Lindsay Putnam