Suffragette – Taten statt Worte

1903 gründete Emmeline Pankhurst in Großbritannien die „Women’s Social and Political Union“, eine bürgerliche Frauenbewegung, die in den folgenden Jahren sowohl durch passiven Widerstand, als auch durch öffentliche Proteste bis hin zu Hungerstreiks auf sich aufmerksam machte. Neben dem Wahlrecht kämpften sie für die allgemeine Gleichstellung der Frau und für heute so selbstverständliche Dinge wie das Rauchen in der Öffentlichkeit. Die sogenannten „Suffragetten“ waren teilweise gezwungen in den Untergrund zu gehen und ein gefährliches Katz und Maus-Spiel mit dem immer brutaler zugreifenden Staat zu führen. Es waren größtenteils Arbeiterfrauen, die festgestellt hatten, dass friedliche Proteste keinen Erfolg brachten. In ihrer Radikalisierung riskierten sie alles zu verlieren – ihre Jobs, ihr Heim, ihre Kinder und ihr Leben.

Gesamte Besetzung von Suffragette – Taten statt Worte

Carey Mulligan delivers a powerful and nuanced performance as Maud Watts in 'Suffragette,' portraying the journey of a working-class woman propelled into the militant fight for women's suffrage in early 20th-century Britain. Her portrayal captures Maud's transformation from a subdued laundress to a determined activist, bringing emotional depth and authenticity to the character. Compared to her earlier roles, such as the reserved and introspective Daisy Buchanan in 'The Great Gatsby,' Mulligan's Maud is more overtly driven by social justice and collective struggle, showcasing her versatility as an actress. A trivia fact: Carey Mulligan worked closely with historians and suffrage activists to accurately depict the physical and emotional toll of the movement on women like Maud.

In the movie 'Suffragette' (2015), Helena Bonham Carter portrays Emmeline Pankhurst, a pioneering leader of the British women's suffrage movement. This role is notable in her career as it represents a departure from her often eccentric or gothic characters, allowing her to embody a real historical figure with gravitas and political passion. Unlike her earlier and more fantastical roles, such as Bellatrix Lestrange in the 'Harry Potter' series or Mrs. Lovett in 'Sweeney Todd,' this performance highlights her ability to convey strong, determined leadership in a grounded, dramatic context. It stands out by showcasing her range and commitment to portraying characters who have significantly impacted social change.

Fans of Meryl Streep might enjoy her role in 'Suffragette' because it showcases her powerful presence and commitment to portraying strong, complex women fighting for justice—qualities that have defined many of her most iconic performances, such as her role as Miranda Priestly in 'The Devil Wears Prada.' However, unlike the sophisticated and commanding Priestly, Streep's character in 'Suffragette' is deeply rooted in historical activism and social change, offering a raw and emotional portrayal of the women's suffrage movement. An interesting detail about her casting is that Streep actually met with real-life suffragettes' descendants to prepare for the role, adding a personal and authentic touch to her performance.