AN exhibition celebrating the formidable women of the silver screen has been drawing rave reviews from patrons at Melbourne's ACMI (Australian Centre for the Moving Image) in Federation Square.

The on-screen and off-screen trailblazing of stars ranging from Marilyn Monroe and Mae West to Geena Davis and Margot Robbie is highlighted in 'Goddess: Power, Glamour, Rebellion', which opened in April and will run until October 1 before touring internationally.

Oscar winner Davis visited Melbourne in an ambassadorial role in April to launch the exhibition, which includes costumes she wore in the iconic road movie 'Thelma and Louise'.

Beyond her impact as an actor in movies such as 'A League of Their Own', 'Beetlejuice' and 'The Accidental Tourist', Davis is a leader in pushing for systemic change for gender equality through on-screen character portrayals, via the Geena Davis Institute on Gender in Media.

She was pleased to align with 'Goddess', which showcases costumes (many of which have never been seen in Australia), original sketches, interactive experiences, large-scale projections and cinematic treasures, while exploring the many stereotypes surrounding the screen goddess and honouring the ground-breaking achievements of revolutionary leading women.

ACMI executive director of experience and engagement Britt Romstad said since the exhibition's opening in April, it had been fascinating to watch the ways in which audiences engaged with 'Goddess', and the things they took away from their visits.

"The exhibition takes another look at the screen goddess, traditionally thought of as a beautiful, glamorous goddess, and looks at the ways in which she has pushed the boundaries of traditional feminine stereotypes - from the silent film era right through to contemporary works," Dr Romstad said.

"The curator (Bethan Johnson) has selected 25 stories and used them to tell the story of the screen goddess.

"When you see these stories en masse, you get the cumulative effect of seeing them across time and space. People, especially women, have said they come out feeling really empowered, knowing there's this rich history that's not always really well-known."

Dr Romstad said 'Goddess' would appeal both to those who love film, and to people who enjoy being in an exhibition space.

ACMI has offered two double passes to the exhibition, to hand on to two lucky Wangaratta Chronicle readers. Winners will need to provide their email addresses to be shared with ACMI, which will then share the tickets with them directly.

* If you would like to be in the running to win one of two double passes to see 'Goddess: Power, Glamour, Rebellion' at Melbourne's ACMI between now and October 1, simply email skerwin@nemedia.com.au and tell us why you would love to see the exhibition.