I attended a great talk today put on by Women in Film and TV (WIFTV) in Vancouver. Kim Hudson, author of “Virgins Promise” explained the way in which a women’s life journey is different from a man’s. Based in extensive research, she challenged the old myth that “all humans” go through a similar life journey called the “hero’s journey” as popularized by Joseph Campbell (and Jungian psychologists). This journey has become the major story line in most movies made today and reflects a male (not female) life line. In his narative, he faces the fear of death and conquers evil, amoung other things. A women’s journey is very different and needs to be better reflected in movies and popular culture. In other words, we need robust woman characters and more authethentic women’s stories. A female journey is about finding fulfilment, creative awakening and getting unstuck. In other words, not killing the villain, but rather enlightening him. Fantastic stuff and lots to chew on!
