Brigitte Bardot, the French actress who became a global sensation in the 1950s and 60s, is being remembered for projecting a bold new image of feminine identity and erotic power through her roles in films like "And God Created Woman" (1957) and "Contempt" (1963). Bardot's early work, particularly "And God Created Woman," directed by Roger Vadim, presented her as a "ripe object of erotic fixation," according to Owen Gleiberman, Chief Film Critic.

The film, which introduced Bardot with suggestive shots of her bare feet and naked body, branded her as a sex kitten, baby doll, and teenage temptress. While some dismissed her performance as mere objectification, Bardot's on-screen persona resonated with audiences, challenging conventional notions of female sexuality and paving the way for a more liberated portrayal of women in cinema.

"And God Created Woman" was a cultural phenomenon, catapulting Bardot to international stardom and solidifying her status as a symbol of youthful rebellion and sexual freedom. However, her influence extended beyond mere sex appeal. In Jean-Luc Godard's "Contempt," Bardot delivered a more complex and nuanced performance, exploring themes of marital disillusionment and the exploitation of art in the film industry.

Gleiberman notes that Bardot's impact lies in her ability to embody both the object of desire and the independent woman, reflecting the changing attitudes towards female identity in the mid-20th century. Her films sparked controversy and debate, but they also captured the spirit of a generation eager to break free from traditional constraints. Bardot's influence can still be seen in contemporary cinema, where female characters are often portrayed with greater agency and sexual confidence.