Review: Tough Old Broads
Synopsis
Kathrine Switzer, Siila Watt-Cloutier, and Sharon Farmer. These trailblazing women broke barriers in their time and continue to pursue their passions now. They’re living proof that you can follow your dreams and change the world.
Stacey Tanenbaum’s documentary Tough Old Broads celebrates three trailblazers–Katherine Switzer the first woman to run the Boston Marathon, Sharon Farmer, the first woman of colour to be the Chief Official White House Photographer, and Siila Watt-Cloutier, the first woman to take legal action against the US government for its role in climate change.
These three women’s inspiring stories are told by weaving together sit-down interviews, archival footage and beautiful, cinematic walk-along scenes. As the narrative flips through each of their unique stories you see a few patterns emerge. The overwhelming theme is that change comes slowly, and it takes small steps and perseverance to create a movement that’s larger than the efforts of individuals.
“I made this film to share the wisdom and experience of older women with a new generation and to inspire all people to remain vital and outspoken as they age,” Tanenbum states in a recent press release.
As a viewer, I was struck by the fact that change can be inspired in the least expected places, and in the smallest ways, and that you can lean on the courage of those who came before you.
Tough Old Broads is currently touring with screenings hitting Landmark 24 Kanata on Friday, March 27 at 3:30 PM (feat. a post-film Q&A with director) and on Monday, March 30 at 6:15 PM
More info & links:
- Director: Stacey Tanenbaum
- Cast: Katherine Switzer, Sharon Farmer, Siila Watt-Cloutier
- Tough Old Broads on IMDB
Jith Paul
Web Designer, Editor, Film Reviewer
Jith Paul is an independent filmmaker based in Ottawa. While pursuing a career as a software engineer, he decided to take a detour to follow his passion for film and filmmaking, establishing Treepot Media in 2010.
He is a co-founder of the Ottawa Canadian Film Festival, where he served on the board until 2024. He is currently the editor of the film613 blog.
When he is not busy fighting crime, he coordinates the efforts of an international team of software developers and service providers as the Team Lead for Digital Development at CPAC, the Cable Public Affairs Channel.
Follow Jith on letterboxd. More at jithpaul.com
He is a co-founder of the Ottawa Canadian Film Festival, where he served on the board until 2024. He is currently the editor of the film613 blog.
When he is not busy fighting crime, he coordinates the efforts of an international team of software developers and service providers as the Team Lead for Digital Development at CPAC, the Cable Public Affairs Channel.
Follow Jith on letterboxd. More at jithpaul.com
