63 I Feel Pretty
In This Chapter
Background on I Feel Pretty
I Feel Pretty, written and directed by Abby Cohn and Mark Silverstein, opened in April 2018 and received mixed reviews based on the way it handled its feminist content. The film brings up important issues regarding body image and self-esteem and subtly highlights problems in Hollywood regarding these particular issues. It does a lot of things right in how it questions beauty standards and promotes self-worth, but it also has flaws in the way it represents women.
The film tackles societal beauty standards and the pressure women often feel to conform to those standards. Renee’s character grapples with low self-esteem due to her perceived lack of physical attractiveness. Through a comedic twist, she gains a newfound confidence after a head injury, believing she has transformed into a conventionally attractive woman. This storyline opens up discussions about body image, self-acceptance, and challenging societal ideals of beauty.
I Feel Pretty can be seen as attempting to subvert traditional beauty norms by suggesting that confidence and self-worth should not be solely dependent on external appearance. It explores the idea that true empowerment comes from within, and that self-perception and self-confidence can have a significant impact on one’s life and relationships.
The film also touches upon workplace dynamics, where Renee’s newfound confidence helps her navigate a corporate environment and take risks professionally. This aspect can be discussed in terms of feminism and the challenges women face in male-dominated industries, as well as the importance of self-assurance and assertiveness.
It is worth noting that I Feel Pretty primarily focuses on the experiences of a white, able-bodied, and conventionally attractive protagonist. Some critics have pointed out that the film does not adequately address intersectional feminist perspectives or the experiences of women who face multiple forms of marginalization. The film has also faced criticism for potentially reinforcing harmful ideas, such as the notion that self-worth is solely tied to physical appearance or perpetuating the idea that confidence can only be achieved through conforming to societal beauty standards. Some argue that the film missed an opportunity to explore deeper feminist themes and instead relied on comedic tropes and shallow messaging.
When discussing how I Feel Pretty addresses feminism, it is essential to consider diverse perspectives and acknowledge that interpretations of the film may vary. Some viewers appreciate its attempt to challenge beauty norms and promote self-acceptance, while others have raised concerns about its overall messaging and its potential reinforcement of harmful ideals.
- Does I Feel Pretty pass the Bechdel test?
- How might feminists like Roxane Gay respond to the film?
- How do you personally feel about the messages presented in the film?
View the 2018 film I Feel Pretty (at the time of publication, it is available to stream on Hulu and available to rent via YouTube and Redbox) and then read a selection of the film reviews (below under “Sources”) written upon the release as you prepare to discuss the film.
Also view this interview with Amy Schumer as she discusses the message of the film on Sister Circle Live.
Video: “Sister Circle Live – Syleena & Amy Schumer.” YouTube, uploaded by Sister Circle TV, 17 Apr. 2018, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=evmv2btL2GY, CCB
- How does the film I Feel Pretty explore the concept of body image and self-perception? Does it challenge any societal norms or expectations related to beauty?
- The film portrays a character who gains confidence and self-esteem after perceiving herself as “beautiful.” What commentary does the film make about the relationship between appearance and self-worth? Do you agree with its message?
- How does the film address issues of self-acceptance and the influence of societal beauty standards? Does it effectively convey the message of embracing oneself regardless of external validation?
- The film employs comedy to tackle serious topics such as body image and self-confidence. Did the use of humor enhance or undermine the film’s messaging? Why?
- The protagonist’s transformation affects not only her perception of herself but also her behavior and interactions with others. How does the film explore the impact of self-confidence on personal relationships and professional success?
- The film touches on the idea of personal growth and empowerment. How does the main character’s journey of self-discovery and self-acceptance resonate with you? Did you find her transformation believable?
- I Feel Pretty received mixed reviews and generated discussions about its portrayal of body positivity and inclusivity. Do you think the film effectively addressed these issues? Were there any missed opportunities or problematic elements in its approach?
- Reflecting on the film’s message, how can society better promote positive body image and self-esteem? What changes, if any, would you like to see in media and advertising to foster a healthier perception of beauty?
- The film raises the question of whether confidence and self-assurance can be genuine if they are based on a distorted perception of oneself. What are your thoughts on this? Can confidence derived from a flawed self-perception be considered valid?
- How does I Feel Pretty compare to other films that explore similar themes of body image, self-esteem, and societal expectations? Do you think it offers a unique perspective or adds to the broader conversation surrounding these issues in media and popular culture?
Sources
Callahan, Maureen. “Amy Shumer Deals Another Blow to Feminism with I Feel Pretty.” New York Post, 18 Apr. 2018, https://nypost.com/2018/04/18/amy-schumer-deals-another-blow-to-feminism-with-i-feel-pretty/
Edelstein, David. “Amy Schumer Deftly Challenges Beauty Standards in I Feel Pretty.” NPR, 20 Apr. 2018, https://www.npr.org/2018/04/20/604315522/amy-schumer-deftly-challenges-beauty-standards-in-i-feel-pretty
Factor, Danielle. “I Feel Pretty Misses Mark on Body Positivity.” Sonoma State Star, 1 May 2018, http://www.sonomastatestar.com/opinion/2018/5/1/i-feel-pretty-misses-mark-on-body-positivity
Harris, Aisha. “I Feel Pretty Has Good Intentions, But It Doesn’t Have Brains.” Slate, 19 Apr. 2018, https://slate.com/culture/2018/04/i-feel-pretty-amy-schumers-body-positive-comedy-reviewed.html
I Feel Pretty. Directed by Mark Silverstein and Abby Cohn, performances by Amy Schumer, et al., STX Entertainment, 2018.
Orr, Christopher. “I Feel Pretty Is a Message Movie that Can’t Stay on Message.” The Atlantic, 20 Apr. 2018, https://www.theatlantic.com/entertainment/archive/2018/04/i-feel-pretty-is-a-message-movie-that-cant-stay-on-message/558404/
Read, Bridget. “In I Feel Pretty, Self-Acceptance Comes with a Pricetag.” Vogue, 18 Apr. 2018, https://www.vogue.com/article/i-feel-pretty-review-amy-schumer-feminism
“Sister Circle Live – Syleena & Amy Schumer.” YouTube, uploaded by Sister Circle TV, 17 Apr. 2018, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=evmv2btL2GY, CCBY
Intersectional feminism acknowledges that there is an inseparability of race, gender, sexuality, and disability (as well as other aspects of identity). It shows that different kinds of prejudice can be amplified in different ways when put together. This means that not all women face the same amounts of prejudice or discrimination.
