Attention all romantic comedy skeptics — the term “chick flicks” should be reserved for movies about chickens, and that’s it. If you’ve been paying attention over the past couple of decades, you’re probably familiar with the terms “chick flick” and “chick lit.” While these labels may seem innocuous, they carry a condescending and sexist undertone. Netflix recently highlighted the problematic nature of the phrase “chick flick” in a viral Twitter thread, making a compelling case for why we should retire it from our everyday language.
Essentially, unless the film you’re watching features actual baby chickens, there is no reason to use the term “chick flick” anymore. Typically, movies lumped into this category are romantic comedies. The underlying assumption? Only individuals with female anatomy enjoy romance! This notion perpetuates the idea that liking romantic films is something to be embarrassed about. Eye roll.
Netflix makes an excellent point. My partner’s all-time favorite film is The Princess Bride, and he’s just as enamored with Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan classics as I am. He has watched Love and Basketball countless times. Why? Because they’re simply great films, and oddly enough, the gender of the viewer doesn’t determine their quality.
You’ve probably never heard anyone refer to a “man movie,” right? Just like colors, films should be for everyone, not confined to blue or pink categories. No one should feel ashamed for their preferences, particularly women who often bear the brunt of this kind of judgment.
Consider the romantic comedies that have captured your heart. Do you think the performances of Julia Roberts and Richard Gere in Pretty Woman or Runaway Bride were any less skillful? Or that we should undermine the incredible chemistry between Meg Ryan and Billy Crystal in When Harry Met Sally, a film that has delighted audiences for three decades, simply because it’s romantic? Give me a break.
Referring to films as “chick flicks” implies that there’s something trivial about enjoying them. The same can be said for the phrase “guilty pleasure.” Have you ever heard a man use that term for the movies or books he loves? I haven’t. Yet women often apply it to romantic films or novels.
To reinforce Netflix’s argument, let’s clarify: if you adore something and it brings you joy—be it a film about a teenage girl writing to her crushes or a novel featuring a rugged carpenter winning over a divorced woman—there’s absolutely no reason to feel guilty.
In romance films and literature (aside from the central conflicts), the focus is typically on a woman living her best life, surrounded by friends, love, and adventure. Labeling these narratives as “chick flicks” or “chick lit” is merely another way for patriarchal norms to make us feel apologetic for seeking happiness.
Escapism is a beautiful experience, especially when it leads us to worlds filled with love and laughter. That’s something to embrace, not apologize for. So go ahead, indulge in your favorite romantic stories and relish the joy they bring.
This article was originally published on April 17, 2019.
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In summary, Netflix’s critique of the term “chick flick” offers an important call to action. We should aim to eliminate gendered labels that trivialize the enjoyment of romantic films and literature. These stories deserve recognition for their craft and the joy they bring to audiences of all genders.