Attention all critics of romantic comedies — the term “chick flick” should really be reserved for films about chickens, end of story. If you’ve been paying attention over the last two decades, you’ve likely encountered the label “chick flick” and, for book lovers, the term “chick lit.” While they might seem innocuous at first glance, these labels are inherently patronizing and undeniably sexist. Netflix recently highlighted just why we need to retire the phrase “chick flick” for good in a viral Twitter thread.
Essentially, unless you’re tuning into a documentary about actual baby chickens, there’s no need for this outdated term. Movies often labeled as “chick flicks” are primarily romantic comedies, as if only women enjoy tales of love! It’s ridiculous to shame anyone for appreciating romance. Eye roll.
Netflix makes a strong point here. For example, my partner’s all-time favorite film is The Princess Bride. He shares my enthusiasm for Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan classics and has watched Love and Basketball countless times. Why? Because they are simply great movies, and surprisingly, gender has nothing to do with it.
You’ll seldom hear anyone refer to a film as a “man movie.” Just like colors, films should appeal to everyone; there’s no need to pigeonhole them into gendered categories. We shouldn’t make anyone feel embarrassed about their movie preferences, especially women.
Consider the romantic comedies you’ve enjoyed. Do you think that Julia Roberts and Richard Gere weren’t brilliantly directed in Pretty Woman and Runaway Bride? Or that the timeless work of Meg Ryan and Billy Crystal in When Harry Met Sally, a film that has captivated audiences for 30 years, should be diminished because of its romantic theme? Give me a break.
As Netflix aptly points out, labeling films as “chick flicks” trivializes the experience of watching them. The same goes for the term “guilty pleasure.” Have you ever heard a man use that phrase about his favorite movie or book? Not likely. But women often use it when discussing romantic films or novels.
To amplify Netflix’s important message, let’s clarify one thing: if something brings you joy — whether it’s a movie about a girl penning letters to her past crushes or a story about a rugged carpenter sweeping a divorced woman off her feet in a quaint town — there is absolutely no reason to feel guilty about it.
In romance narratives, the main character, often a woman, is thriving. She has friendships, love, and fulfilling experiences. Referring to these stories as “chick flicks” or “chick lit” merely serves to reinforce a patriarchal narrative that encourages women to feel sorry for enjoying happiness.
Escapism can be a beautiful thing, especially when it immerses us in a world of love and laughter. That’s definitely something to celebrate, not apologize for. Just enjoy it!
This article was originally published on April 17, 2019.
For more insightful topics and discussions, check out our other blog posts on home insemination kits.
Summary: Netflix is advocating for the retirement of the term “chick flick,” arguing that it is condescending and sexist. The article highlights how labeling romantic comedies as “chick flicks” trivializes the genre, suggesting that everyone, regardless of gender, should feel free to enjoy films without shame.