There is also the problem of typology. Are we simply swapping one stereotype for another? Instead of the "wise grandma," we now have the "fierce, rich, unbothered goddess." Real aging includes fragility, financial insecurity, loneliness, and decay. Strictly Ballroom’s "perfect older woman" is just as limiting as the femme fatale. The next frontier is ugly realism—showing women who are sick, tired, broke, and still worthy of a narrative.
For too long, Hollywood tried to freeze time. Mature actresses were encouraged to erase every line and tighten every jawline to maintain the illusion of youth.