It's been a celebratory few weeks after Hollywood actors and writers reached a deal to end the second-longest strike in entertainment history. It means better compensation for writers and actors and transparency and consent as AI becomes a more significant part of the Hollywood playbook. But as Tinseltown gets back to work with optimism and airtight contracts between studios, actors, and writers, there's still a long road ahead for women vying for top positions on screen and behind the camera. In 2023, only fifteen percent of women were sitting in the director's chair, and 39 percent of women were cast in leading roles.
"Now, more than ever, we need the perspective, tenacity, and creativity of women storytellers," said Tribeca co-founder and CEO Jane Rosenthal, as she addressed a small group of aspiring women and non-binary filmmakers on Thursday in downtown Manhattan. All gathered under the wing of Chanel and Tribeca's Through Her Lens program. Founded in 2015, the program shepherds women and non-binary writers, directors, and producers through a three-day workshop where they receive mentorship, artistic development, and funding for their female-led projects. The program will soon celebrate its 10th anniversary, a milestone that looks back on its commitment to changing the paradigm for women in film.
