The Hello Girls

The Hello Girls, directed by Anne Mae Pericich, serves as a poignant tribute to the countless stories of brave women who defied societal norms and expectations to contribute to one of the most pivotal moments in world history. Set against the backdrop of the Great War, the film delves into the unsung heroism of 223 women who were employed as telephone operators by the U.S. Army Signal Corps in 1918. The story commences with these pioneering women, many of whom were college-educated and fluent in multiple languages, leaving behind the comforts of their homes and embarking on a perilous journey to the battle-scarred terrain of France. Upon their arrival, they were immersed in a harsh, masculine-dominated environment where their skills and determination were put to the test. Under the guidance of their commanding officers, these women mastered the art of operating switchboards, connecting over 26 million calls in a remarkably short span of time. Throughout the film, the protagonist, an anonymous yet spirited voice, guides us through the triumphs and tribulations of these remarkable women. Their unwavering dedication to duty earned them recognition from General John J. Pershing, the commander-in-chief of the American Expeditionary Forces, who hailed their service as indispensable to the Allied efforts. As the war gradually subsided, the Hello Girls returned home as heroes, their stories a testament to the indomitable will of women who refused to accept the limitations imposed upon them by society. The film takes a poignant turn when the women are informed by the U.S government that they were never, in fact, soldiers. This cruel blow stripped them of their military honors, leaving them without any official recognition of their extraordinary contributions to the war effort. The narrative follows the arduous and prolonged struggle of the Hello Girls as they endeavored to reclaim their rightfully earned recognition. Their battle with the government became a 60-year-long fight, marked by periods of perseverance, frustration, and heartbreak. However, their steadfast resolve ultimately bore fruit in 1977, when the valiant efforts of Senator Barry Goldwater and Congresswoman Lindy Boggs helped secure their status as soldiers. Although a mere handful of the original Hello Girls remained alive to witness this vindication, their legacies lived on as powerful symbols of women's empowerment and resistance against the entrenched biases of the time. Throughout the film, the narrative interweaves historical accounts with the personal stories of the Hello Girls, drawing a vivid portrait of their struggles and triumphs. Theirs is a tale of unwavering resilience, as these brave women defied convention and transcended the boundaries of expectation to forge a new path for themselves and generations to come. As the camera pans over the faded photographs and dusty memorabilia that line the walls of the film's backdrop, we are reminded of the countless stories that lie hidden in the shadows of history. The Hello Girls presents a powerful tribute to these unsung heroes, whose stories serve as a poignant reminder that even the most marginalized voices can effect meaningful change over time. The film's narrative pace is measured, its tone both somber and uplifting. By honoring the memories of the Hello Girls, the film underscores the significance of their contributions and serves as a poignant reminder of the power of determination and perseverance. In a era where women's rights continue to be fiercely debated, The Hello Girls stands as a testament to the unyielding spirit of women who paved the way for their sisters, daughters, and granddaughters to follow in their footsteps.