directoras

Directoras is the feminine plural form of the Spanish noun directora, used to refer to women who direct, especially in film, television, theatre, or other performing arts. The masculine plural directores exists as well, and in many contexts the masculine form is used as a generic default for mixed-gender groups. Directoras, therefore, signals gender and professional role within Spanish-speaking contexts.

In cinema and media, directoras have played a crucial and increasingly visible role since the early days of film. Pioneers such as Alice Guy-Blaché, Lois Weber, and Dorothy Arzner helped establish directing as a path for women in Hollywood and beyond. In contemporary cinema, notable directoras include Jane Campion, Sofia Coppola, Kathryn Bigelow, Chloé Zhao, Céline Sciamma, Isabel Coixet, and Icíar Bollaín, who have received international recognition for their work. In the Spanish-speaking world, directoras like Isabel Coixet (Spain), Icíar Bollaín (Spain), Claudia Llosa (Peru), and Lucrecia Martel (Argentina) are noted for their distinctive voices and contributions to regional and global cinema.

Beyond film, the term directoras can apply to women directing in theatre, television, and other audiovisual fields. Representation of directoras varies by country and industry, with ongoing discussions about gender parity, access to funding, and opportunities for advancement. Efforts to address disparities include targeted grants, mentorship programs, and festivals or showcases highlighting women directors, reflecting broader movements toward gender diversity in directing professions.