Alright, rom-com skeptics, listen up: the term “chick flick” should be strictly reserved for films about baby chickens. If you’ve been paying attention for the last couple of decades, you’re likely familiar with the term “chick flick.” You might have also heard of “chick lit.” While these phrases may seem innocuous, they carry a condescending and inherently sexist undertone. Netflix recently took to Twitter to explain why we should eliminate “chick flick” from our everyday language, and they have a point.
In essence, unless the film features actual poultry, there’s no reason to use the term “chick flick.” Movies typically labeled as such are romantic comedies, as if only those with female anatomy enjoy romance! This notion implies that we should somehow shame individuals for savoring romantic stories. Rolls eyes dramatically.
Netflix isn’t wrong. My friend’s all-time favorite movie is The Princess Bride, and he’s just as enamored with Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan films as I am. He’s watched Love and Basketball so many times that I’ve lost count. Why? Because they’re simply great films! And oddly enough, their quality has nothing to do with who enjoys them.
Have you ever heard anyone refer to a film as a “man movie”? Nope. Just like colors, films should be for everyone. They shouldn’t be pigeonholed into male or female categories, and no one should feel guilty about their cinematic preferences. Ahem—women— really shouldn’t have to feel this way.
Think back to all the romantic comedies you’ve cherished. Do you think Julia Roberts and Richard Gere weren’t expertly directed in Pretty Woman and Runaway Bride? Or should we undermine the exceptional performances of Meg Ryan and Billy Crystal in When Harry Met Sally, a film that has captivated audiences for three decades, just because it’s romantic? Give me a break.
Labeling films as “chick flicks” reinforces the idea that there’s something trivial about enjoying them. The same goes for the term “guilty pleasure.” Have you ever heard a man use that phrase regarding his favorite movie or book? Absolutely not! But women often do when discussing romantic films or novels.
To echo Netflix’s vital message, let’s clarify one thing: if something brings you joy—be it a film about a girl penning letters to all the boys she’s loved or a story of a rugged carpenter winning over a jaded divorcée—there is nothing to feel ashamed about.
In romance narratives, the protagonist (often a woman) is thriving. She enjoys friendships, love, and self-discovery. Reducing these narratives to “chick flicks” or “chick lit” is merely another tactic of the patriarchy to make us feel guilty for pursuing happiness. Escaping into a world of love and laughter is a wonderful thing; there’s no need to apologize for it. Just embrace it!
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In summary, we need to retire the term “chick flick” as it trivializes the genre and reinforces outdated stereotypes. Embracing all films, regardless of their romantic themes, is essential to move past the connotations that diminish their value.
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