Wonder Woman’s representation of a feminism embodies iconic defiance against gender roles. In 1941 when William Moulton Marston brought the character to life, it was widely received as a promise of feminist action in the (near) future. While basically all comics at that time consisted of men, for men, Wonder Woman broke the stigma and portrayed women as –  rightfully – equally as powerful as their counterparts: thus was born one of the most publicly famous heroines of all time. Countless examples of feminine strength are portrayed in Wonder Woman, from Diana’s role in the war to German enemies.

Focusing specifically on Patty Jenkins’ 2017 DC film production, Wonder Woman has taken a lot of hits (from both men and women) because of the pressure and high expectations that naturally follow a breakthrough against deeply-rooted stereotypes. For the first time since 1984, a female superhero has anchored a film. Worldwide, the film has been celebrated and praised for its significant steps forward; it became the biggest blockbuster ever directed by a woman, it stars a dominant, badass woman fighting a “man’s war”, and is a modern debut of a long-awaited female hero. Many consider Patty Jenkins’ Wonder Woman to be a tremendous step forward for women, and yet some still view it as three steps back.

Though many applaud Diana, some view her role as a glossed-over “damsel in distress” male-Hollywood gambit. Her ‘revealing’ clothing has been branded insensible for function or battle, and could arguably exemplify Hollywood’s sexualization of women. Many also associate Wonder Woman with ‘intersectionality’ – the ideology that identities (sex, gender, race, class, religion, etc.) can heighten women’s exposure to oppression. This can be seen through accusations of Wonder Woman encompassing unrealistic body expectations; her ‘perfect’ body, abilities, beauty, etc. sparked debate on the character conforming to the ‘ideal female aesthetic’. And, she gets the dreamy hero soldier in a sweep of gunfire and smoke (many were annoyed by the slightly sidetracked romance).

Although Diana Prince (Wonder Woman) is the main protagonist in her film, her role does not stand alone in suggesting female strength. Paradise Island, home of the Amazons, operates solely by the power of women. They govern, train, and thrive completely on their own; far from the reach of humankind. Self-sufficiency and strength allows these women to live an empowered, purposeful life with missions to defend mankind if necessary. Similar to these female icons stands Doctor Poison, an innovative chemist working with the German forces in WWI. Her inclusion in Wonder Woman suggests women’s equality among men, specifically emphasizing brainpower, in spite of the time period or ‘side’ of the war. Her mind and skills are unparalleled by any man in the German forces. Dr Poison’s character recognizes the notion that being ‘erased’ from history is as much a blow to feminism, despite which force they reside with. Upon meeting Steve’s secretary, Etta, Diana is confused and unsold on the idea of such a job position, and unapprovingly says “Where I come from, that’s called slavery,” to Etta. On a similar note, her clothing choices do not coincide with London fashion, and as the dress-up montage commences, Diana claims “I can’t fight in this,” as she repeatedly rejects different items. A separate scene shows Diana rooting herself into the all-male British military board room after Steve tells her to remain outside its doors, but Wonder Woman definitely doesn’t take orders from men. Diana firmly tells Steve “What I do is not up to you,” making this notion perfectly clear, and continues about her mission.

One of the most notable characteristics about Wonder Woman isn’t the fancy weapons or God-like skills she possesses. Diana’s empathy and love for others ends up being one of her strongest forces – she herself is the ultimate weapon that saves the world. She values love and peace over hate and destruction, and permanently sacrifices her homeland and family to venture out and save the human race. She knows no bounds to ability or gender; to Diana, everyone is equal. Wonder Woman combines force, beauty, and tenacity to demonstrate that strength can be equally found in masculinity and femininity.