Ever since the Harvey Weinstein scandal came to light, which has resulted in some progress with the likes of #TimesUp and #MeToo highlighted by many actresses and movie industry representatives, the issue of gender equality and giving a stronger voice to female creatives has never been more dominant and potent in the world.
A new documentary, PIONEERS IN SKIRTS, will attempt to gain some clarity and constructive answers when it is screened at the virtual Paris International Film Festival between 4th and 14th February 2021.
Tickets available here: https://www.parisintlfest.com/
PIONEERS IN SKIRTS reflects the perspective of a female film-maker whose own frustrations in her own creative journey lead her to decide to take action by finding out about similar concerns in other industries and society in general.
ABOVE: Director Ashley Maria
Director Ashley Maria is an LA-based film-maker and winner of the coveted Director’s Guild of America (DGA) award), as well as being featured by the DGA Women’s Steering Committee as a director who represents The Future of Women in Film and was named Best New Director at the Downtown Los Angeles Film Festival.
When she isn’t running her own production company, Maria continues to help and mentor other film-makers through her work as a Directing Instructor at UCLA and the American Film Institute’s Young Women in Film Program.
Speaking of her experience, Maria had this to say in a statement:
“What does a filmmaker do if she wants to overcome an issue she’s having in her life? Well, she makes a movie about it.
Soon after I started my directing career in Los Angeles, I knew I needed to make an honest film that investigated the shocking experiences I was having. I wasn’t prepared for what was happening and quickly realized this was a very big issue for women everywhere – not just in the film industry. It was much bigger than me.
The issue? The sexism and stereotyping that can prevent women from reaching their full potential.
Pioneers in Skirts grew into an overarching search for strategies to advance gender parity. My hope is for the film to be utilized to help create a world where ambitious women & girls won’t have to combat bias in their lives, and companies can achieve diverse and inclusive work cultures.
After 4 years of following pioneering women and gathering the facts, I am excited for the impact this film will have – not just for women or the film industry – but for cultures wanting to play a role in dramatically changing the outcome for women today, and the next generation.
I’m proud to share that, after targeted test screening results from around the country, Pioneers in Skirts has proven to motivate viewers to re-evaluate the world around them and their place in it. Viewers share that they now empathize with women and what they are confronted with on a daily basis, and they leave the film wanting to take steps toward change. They want to make a difference.
We ALL can play a role in pioneering change!”
Pioneering change is definitely something the virtual Paris International Film Festival believes in – and this year’s event promises so much opportunity for it, with Premiere screenings of exciting new films, networking opportunities, panels and forums for debate, including mental health and climate change amongst others.
Whether you are a novice film fan or a veteran of Hollywood, the Festival welcomes everyone of all backgrounds to the celebration and community.
Film And TV Now is an Official Partner – and will continue to bring you all the exciting coverage before, during and after the Festival.
