“Wonder Woman” was named Best Action Movie of the year at the Critics Choice Awards, something we’ve been saying since June

Although we had to wait 75 years for the world’s most famous and celebrated female superhero to grace the big screen, we’re glad we didn’t have to wait that long for her movie to receive all the recognition it rightfully deserves. Oh, if we could just give Wonder Woman all the awards, we totally would, because how often do we encounter a movie heroine who smashes the patriarchy and saves the world all at the same time?

At the 2018 Critics’ Choice Awards, the DC Extended Universe film brought home the award for Best Action Movie, beating strong contenders like Baby Driver, Logan, Thor: Ragnarok, and War for the Planet of the Apes. But this recognition is only second to perhaps the most important distinction the film clinched that night. Gal Gadot was also awarded the #SeeHer Award for her noteworthy performance as Wonder Woman.

To put things into perspective, the #SeeHer Award is presented to a woman whose work encompasses the #SeeHer initiative, which is “to push boundaries on changing stereotypes and recognize the importance of accurately portraying women across the entertainment landscape.” Presenting the award to Gadot was no other than Wonder Woman director Patty Jenkins, who gave the actress a heartfelt introduction:

"She excelled at every aspect of the universal hero's struggle in real life on and off the screen. But the really special thing is, she didn't do it for the glory. She didn't do it for the fame. She's not here for the money. She did it for us. She knew the great importance of this character and what she could mean to the world if well done."

We couldn’t agree more.

In turn, Gadot moved the audience with a passionate speech about what it meant for her to play such a strong female character, and emphasized that although Hollywood seems to be taking steps forward in its fight towards equality, the industry still has a long way to go.

"As artists, and as filmmakers, I believe it’s not only our job to entertain, but our duty to inspire and educate for love and respect. In the past weeks and months, we’ve been witnessing a movement in our industry and society, and I want to share this award with all the women and men who stand for what’s right: Standing for those who can’t stand or speak for themselves. My promise and commitment to all of you is that I will never be silenced, and we will continue to band together to make strides, uniting for equality."

Watch her full speech below:

That was so beautiful that it’s taking everything in us not to cry.

Gal Gadot really is Diana Prince/Wonder Woman personified. Although at this point, we’re already starting to think that they’re one and the same.

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