Journalists, documentary makers, and filmmakers seek support and collaboration to create more authentic and compelling works reflecting Maria Montessori’s influence. One example in 2024 was the release of the film Maria Montessori, A New Woman by director Léa Todorov, who focused on a brief period in Montessori’s life around 1900 that was to prove foundational for all future work. It showcased the prepared environment and the history of the developmental materials while portraying Montessori in the contemporary male-dominated academic environment where women scholars and scientists were largely excluded. This served to illustrate the importance of Montessori’s agenda on women’s rights and, by association, children’s rights.

The film has enjoyed worldwide showings in cinemas in 18 countries, with Japan following in 2025. The interest in the film brought a valuable opportunity for committed Montessorians to be invited by podcast makers, radio and television producers, to give background on Maria Montessori and her philosophy of human development.

The US film premiere will take place on 6 April at 12:30 PM at The Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan (MMJCCM) as part of the 17th edition of ReelAbilities' Flagship Festival in New York, 3–9 April 2025.