Women directors who changed everything for these male stars

fuerza943fm October 25, 2025

Shah Rukh Khan & Farah Khan / Gauri Shinde — Main Hoon Na & Dear Zindagi

SRK’s collaboration with female directors brought out new dimensions in his acting. Main Hoon Na showcased his charm, action, and emotional depth, while Dear Zindagi highlighted his quiet, introspective side, proving his versatility under women’s direction.

Hrithik Roshan & Zoya Akhtar — Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara

Under Zoya Akhtar, Hrithik delivered one of his most relatable performances as Arjun. The film explored vulnerability, introspection, and the joy of rediscovery, making it both a cultural milestone and box-office success.

Christian Bale & Greta Gerwig — Little Women

Gerwig’s sensitive storytelling brought out Christian Bale’s grounded, charming, and emotionally honest side. Little Women was a global critical and commercial anthem, showing how nuanced direction can unlock unexpected facets in even intense actors.

Ryan Gosling & Greta Gerwig — Barbie

Ryan Gosling’s Ken could have been purely comedic, but Gerwig’s sharp and layered direction turned it into a multi-dimensional, meme-worthy, and heartfelt performance. Barbie became a global blockbuster and a career-defining moment.

Bradley Cooper & Susanne Bier — Serena

Oscar-winning Susanne Bier guided Cooper into morally complex, emotionally intense territory. Serena showcased a darker, layered side of his craft, highlighting how women directors can elevate performances through character-driven storytelling.

Yash & Geetu Mohandas — Toxic

Yash joins forces with Geetu Mohandas for Toxic, promising emotional depth and sensitivity alongside scale. After redefining mass cinema with KGF, this collaboration signals a creative shift into nuanced, layered storytelling for the superstar.