Challenging Misogyny on and off the Pitch: Analysis of Selected Sports Movies

Abstract

Purpose: The present study is an attempt to analyze selected sports movies with reference to discrimination and misogyny against sportswomen. The aim is to explore how Indian sportswomen face misogyny and discrimination in sport institutions and society at large. Approach/Methodology/Design: The study is based on thematic analysis to destabilize the notion that sports are the sole realm of men alone. Feminist film theory is also used in the analysis of the movies. Two movies were selected; Chak de! India (2007) and Dil bole Hadippa! (2009). Findings: The results of the analysis indicate that these movies despite having their own drawbacks exhort that society cannot deny women equal rights of participation and opportunity in sports. Both of the movies project their protagonists struggling to achieve success in sports. It is revealed that despite the progress that has been achieved in sports, misogyny is deep-rooted in sport institutions. Practical Implications: The paper throws light on various types of barriers, socio-cultural, biological and psychological, which women players have to cross, in addition to dealing with a bizarre and weird kind of treatment which their male counterparts do not normally confront. It depicts how family pressures and restrictions, cultural inhibitions, lack of support and biased attitude of society can ultimately thwart the ambitions of women players. Originality/value: The paper suggests that sports can be used as an effective tool for women empowerment. As part of the feminist inquiry, the attempt here is to expose the inequalities and discrimination against sportswomen.