One of the most touching characters in literature and film is Celie Johnson, from The Color Purple. Celie is torn from her children and her sister (the only person that has ever loved her) and forced to marry a man who treats her like a slave. While enduring a lifetime of

abuse, she makes strong connections with women friends who build her confidence. Celie finally finds her voice when those she loves are silenced, and transforms into a strong and

independent woman who leaves her abusive husband in the middle of the Great Depression. Celie isn’t the only strong, female character breaking away from their circumstances.

Prepare yourself for tears, but also for an overwhelming urge to get off the sofa and conquer your world! Photos courtesy: Warner Bros. Pictures

Under the Tuscan Sun is a colorful movie with a positive message for anyone woman who has ever been made to less than fabulous. After a divorce and a

gentle shove from a friend, Francis finds herself on a tour of Italy and impulse-buys a villa in Tuscany. As the villa is broken down and rebuilt, so is Francis. And after some mis-adventures, she finds the inner woman that can

love again…love life, love Italian food and, most importantly, love herself.

Photos courtesy: Touchstone Pictures

Most gals got a little bad-ass residing within. Lady, the high society Cocker Spaniel of Lady and the Tramp, was once a pampered pup. Escaping the horrid babysitter, she learns how to survive the mean streets and eats

spaghetti with a sexy, intriguing stranger. It’s fun to watch the lovely Lady transform into a savvy canine. At first she thinks she needs the help of her

new boyfriend Tramp, but soon realizes she’s a tough b**** that will stop at nothing to protect those she loves. After finding her inner diva, Lady settles

down into happier ever after. Photos courtesy: Walt Disney Productions

Lee Holloway from Secretary may not be the common person’s hero, but she quickly evolves from a psychologically disturbed “cutter” into a woman that knows what she wants…even if it is a sadomasochistic relationship with her boss. She is convinced that there is someone for everyone and sets out to prove that she’s capable of loving Edward however she wants to, opinions

from her community be damned.

Photos courtesy: Lionsgate Entertainment

Amelie’s title character starts out on a mission to transform the lives of people around her. In the midst of her deeds, she unknowingly transforms herself, a quirky loner, into a woman capable of loving a quirky misfit. This

sweet, imaginative film shows that love is the most transformative power of all.

Photos courtesy: Miramax Films