The WODC’s Favorite Action Femmes (Global Edition)
Our love of females in action knows no bounds, so when we find an action-packed female character, foreign or domestic, it’s hard for us not to love her. Here’s a shortlist of action femmes that captured our Write or Die hearts:
Queen Sono (2020) – Netflix
Queen Sono
Kick-ass females reign supreme, so let’s begin with a queen. Queen Sono.
“I think Queen Sono is a badass for many reasons, but what makes her my favorite femme action character has to do with the fact that she’s a Black female action icon from South Africa. Most are familiar with the turbulent history between people of color and South Africa, but one of the modern hidden horrors of the country as a whole is gender-based violence against women and femicide. This is a problem that gained an international spotlight during the pandemic, but it is one that is far from conquered. Queen Sono’s character acts as a symbol of feminine strength in a section of the world where women need it most. She’s a true Queen, in every sense of the word.”
- Mercedes K. Milner, The WODC
Resident Evil (2002) - Screen Gems
Alice
This made-for-film action character didn’t originally exist in the video games the Resident Evil movie franchise is based on, but that didn’t stop this new kick-ass character from owning the screen. Watching Alice’s growth and realization of her power was a welcome surprise, as this blank slate character, hinted initially in the movie as weak, came to exemplify strength. No matter what you feel about the film or games, watching the evolution of an action female that spans over a decade is a treat and entertaining journey, in our opinion.
Underworld (2003) - Subterranean Productions LLC.
Selene
We already love action females, but when you add some spooky/supernatural frosting on the cake, like say: vampiric-tendencies, you know we’re on board.
“Selene is by far my favorite femme action hero. Do I love every film in the franchise? No, but I stay for Selene every time. As the Juliet of this supernatural spin of Shakespeare’s tale of star-crossed lovers, Selene is a badass with a mind of her own who knows to take what those in authority say with a grain of salt. Furthermore, her evolution from vampire father pleasing daughter to independent vamp queen is incredibly satisfying. Some will argue that she is too reliant on Michael. However, I view her as a badass evolved enough for love. She takes down her entire corrupt vampire family in full leather and heels. A goth style icon for the ages.”
- Deanna M. Gomez, The WODC
Nikita (2011) - CW Network
Nikita
Since the Luc Besson film, La Femme Nikita, Nikita has graced screens big and small with four iterations of the titular character, starring in two movies and two television series.
“Nikita is one of my favorite action femmes because she isn’t perfect. After being manipulated and molded into an assassin, Nikita uses her new skills to take charge of her life, help others, get what she wants, and stop the same manipulations from happening again. The character is very human, as she makes the best of a bad situation, and though she may not technically be a heroine, she finds a way to fight for what she believes in and protect her fellow victims. She’s not always on the “right side,” and her motivations aren’t always pure and innocent, but she’s doing her own best to right wrongs and do what’s better for her present self.”
– Angela M. Thomas, The WODC
Mulan (1998) - Walt Disney Pictures
Hua Mulan
This cross-dressing damsel isn't in distress. She's leading the charge. Depending on the story version you subscribe to, Hua Mulan is a soldier, a reluctant heroine, or a commanding general. Either way, she's a fighter with qualities that inspire others to follow her. With a story dating back to the 4th Century A.D., Hua Mulan's character has positively impacted impressionable youths for countless generations. Hua Mulan found her way in a world that tried to limit her. By making her own rules and fighting her own battles, this character proves gender doesn't designate your willingness to fight or your strength.
About the Writer
Angela M. Thomas is a Co-Founder & Administrator of the WODC where she serves as the Write or Die Chicks Social Media & Branding Specialist. She captains the international media column Lost in Translation.