Hollywood’s new “it girl” may be more collective than individual. From “The Danish Girl” on opening night to “Suffragette” as its close, women’s themes stand front and center at the upcoming Mill Valley Film Festival. “The topic of gender is definitely on the agenda this year,” says director of programming Zoe Elton. Among works from 200 filmmakers representing more than 50 countries, the 38th Mill Valley Film Festival (Oct. 8-18) not only opens and closes with female-driven films, but it also honors actors Brie Larson, Carey Mulligan and Sarah Silverman for landmark performances, and director Catherine Hardwicke for lifetime achievement. What’s more, MVFF received a $15,000 NEA grant to support a multifaceted women’s initiative.

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