Films made by women belong to the history of cinema; it's just that we get erased pretty quickly.

In this quote, Celine Sciamma, a renowned French filmmaker, addresses the marginalization of women directors in the history of cinema. She acknowledges that films made by women are an integral part of the cinematic history, but points out that women’s contributions are often overlooked or erased by mainstream narratives. Sciamma’s words highlight how gender bias has historically shaped the recognition of filmmakers, where female directors have had to fight for visibility and acknowledgment in a male-dominated industry.

Sciamma’s statement draws attention to the systemic issues within the film industry, where even though women have been creating powerful and innovative films, their work is frequently sidelined or not celebrated in the same way as that of their male counterparts. This erasure can occur both at the critical level—where their films receive less analysis or acclaim—and at the institutional level, where awards and recognition are often withheld. Sciamma’s comment reflects the broader conversation about representation and the need for greater visibility and equity in the arts.

The origin of this quote can be traced to Sciamma’s experiences as a filmmaker working in an industry where women directors are often underrepresented. Sciamma herself has become a trailblazer in pushing for diverse voices in cinema, particularly in telling stories about women and gender identity. Her films, like Portrait of a Lady on Fire and Tomboy, explore themes of self-discovery, love, and identity, often placing women’s experiences at the center of the narrative.

Ultimately, Sciamma’s words challenge the dominant historical narrative of cinema and call for a reevaluation of the contributions of women filmmakers. By acknowledging the erasure that often happens, she advocates for a more inclusive and recognitive approach to the history of film, where the work of women is properly celebrated and their influence on the medium is fully acknowledged.