When it comes to cinema, it’s easy to conflate the issue of on-screen representation with off-screen representation. As we continue to challenge discriminatory hiring practices in the industry, and demand greater opportunities for female writers and directors, the negative impact of the lack of those opportunities seems incredibly obvious. In reality, the issue is far more complex, and narrowing our equality demands to such specific criteria essentially lets male filmmakers off the hook.

Yes, representation on-screen would undoubtedly be improved if a wider variety of voices were included in the filmmaking process, but such progress is not the sole responsibility of female filmmakers. Male filmmakers need to be inclusive, too. It’s difficult to imagine, I know – especially since there are so few examples...

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