inkblot11 Review of The Courage to Love

The Courage to Love (2000 TV Movie)

An outstanding film, based on a true story which very few have heard, which is a tragedy in itself

[28 September 2011]

Henriette Delille (Vanessa Williams) is a Creole, of European and African ancestry, living in early 19th century New Orleans. In those times, whites and blacks are not permitted to wed but, instead, live together in a common law marriage, arranged by a practice called placage. Creole young women are "placed together" with a white gentleman of her parents choosing. This occurs at a grand ball and the man takes future care of his "wife" by giving her a nice house and money for any children. Indeed, Henriette's parents (Diahann Carroll and Stacy Keach) lived happily for many years under this system and her older sister has been fortunate to meet an outstanding partner, too. But, after Mr. Deliile leaves the family to marry a white lady and live with his new spouse, Henriette doesn't know if this is what she really wants in life. Already, as a devoted Catholic, Henriette teaches slave children to read and does other good works for her local parish. Perhaps she has a future as a nun. Nevertheless, the beautiful young woman goes to the ball, where her intended mate seems kind and considerate. Henriette also meets a young French doctor, Gerard (Gil Bellows) who helped her once with a sick patient on the street. This confuses the young woman even more, for she is drawn to him decidedly. Therefore, she refuses the arranged placage and intensifies her charitable works while still meeting the doctor in formal settings from time to time. Ultimately, will Henriette accept Gerard's proposal and go to France, where they can be legally married? Or, will she stay in New Orleans, with family, friends, and parishoners who need her? Also, as a black woman, will she be allowed to take vows, if this is her decision? This outstanding and beautiful film, based on the tale of the true Henriette Delille, is a head-and-heart grabber. Few know her story but she is now the first African American saint and was a most admirable woman. As Henriette, Williams has never looked lovelier or performed more touchingly. Keach, Carroll, Bellows and all of the other fine cast members do great work, too. The re-creation of the time period, through sets and costumes, is fantastic while the script and solid direction have produced a very entertaining, enlightening, and praise-worthy movie. Film fans should look for it without delay.