It’s no big secret that Hollywood is a man’s world. But now the status quo is being challenged as a violation of civil rights: specifically, the dearth of women in the director's chair. The A.C.L.U.

Last year, of the 250 top-grossing films at the domestic box office, only about 15 were directed by women. And only one woman has ever won an Oscar for Best Director. What’s the deal? Madeleine Brand ...