What is Susan Seidelman's view on the current state of women in music?

Seidelman says there has been an "explosion of strong, powerful women in music in the last five years," with many female singer-songwriters confidently telling personal stories through their music.

How did Seidelman's film "Desperately Seeking Susan" perform?

Seidelman notes that the 1985 film, which had a feminist focus, was also a commercial success, surprising the studio.

What challenges did Seidelman face as a female director in Hollywood?

Seidelman says she was placed in "movie jail" after some of her later films were criticized as "men-hating," and she believes this happens more often to women directors than their male counterparts.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Acclaimed Director Celebrates Empowered Women in Music and Film

Acclaimed Director Celebrates Empowered Women in Music and Film

6 Nov, 2025

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Summary

Director Susan Seidelman praises "explosion of strong, powerful women in music" in last 5 years
Her 1985 film "Desperately Seeking Susan" was a feminist hit that also made money for the studio
Seidelman faced "movie jail" after some of her later films were criticized as "men-hating"

Acclaimed Director Celebrates Empowered Women in Music and Film

In a recent interview, acclaimed director Susan Seidelman, known for the 1985 hit "Desperately Seeking Susan," praised the "explosion of strong, powerful women in music" over the past five years. Seidelman, who is set to receive the Indie Star Award at Poland's Tauron American Film Festival, believes that female singer-songwriters are now confidently telling their personal stories through their music.

Seidelman's own career has been marked by a focus on female empowerment. She notes that "Desperately Seeking Susan" was not only a feminist film, but it also made money for the studio, surprising them. However, Seidelman faced challenges later in her career, with some of her films being criticized as "men-hating" and landing her in "movie jail."