: In the last decade of film, only about 4% of leading women were over the age of 40.
Despite historical barriers, recent years have seen a surge in complex, leading roles for mature women, driven in part by the "post-#MeToo" landscape and the demands of an aging global population for representative media.
While visibility has improved, a subtle form of ageism often persists through what scholars call a "rejuvenatory regime".
: Mature actresses are increasingly dominating major awards. Recent years have seen Meryl Streep, Viola Davis, Nicole Kidman, and Frances McDormand take home top honors for roles that explore the intricate nuances of aging.
: Sandra Bullock in Gravity and Amy Adams in Arrival . Lingering Challenges: The Rejuvenation Regime