Now, Voyager

"I'm not afraid. I'm not afraid, mother. I'm not afraid."

In this defining moment, Bette Davis' character, Charlotte, in Now, Voyager realizes that her independence is the most important thing she owns. She seems shocked and amazed that she really isn't afraid. Nothing can take this sense of freedom from her, certainly not her controlling mother or her threats. When Charlotte's mother dies, she feels guilt and a sense of responsibility. Her evolution into an amazing, independent woman continues when she selflessly gives her love and attention to a young girl, Tina, who happens to be the daughter of the one real love she had in her life, Jerry. Her freedom becomes even more obvious when she chooses the girl over the man, proving that she does not need a man to be happy and content. If only all of today's girls were made to watch this film.

Here's to independence and the painful but rewarding journey towards it.