In the early days of cinema, the "girl" was often depicted as a damsel in distress, a romantic interest, or a femme fatale. Classic films like The Gold Rush (1925), It Happened One Night (1934), and Roman Holiday (1953) showcased iconic female leads, often typecast in limited roles. These early representations of "girl" were often defined by their relationships with men, reinforcing patriarchal norms and stereotypes.