‘The Help’ is one of my favorite movies. It is one of those movies where no matter how many times I watch it I can always count on it to bring me to tears (multiple times).

The plot of this film is based on a true story and is an adaptation of a novel. The story is obviously very progressive for something that takes place in the 50’s. In “The Case of the Missing Mother,” Kaplan pointed out an aspect of the film that I love, but had never thought of before. Kaplan discussed how strong female relationships are things that disturb and intimidate the patriarchy. However, if these strong bonds persevere they can lead to great successes.

The female relationships in the movie are so powerful because they are completely mutual. Although the black, female characters appear inferior, they give the white women just as much as the white women give them. For example, in one of the final scenes we see how far both Celia and Minny have come: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8j0c-W-xVlE They are both supportive of each other and make the other more confident.

The same is true for Skeeter’s relationship with Aibleen and Minny. Both give the other courage. Skeeter follows her dreams of “writing about something she cares about” and not succumbing to the “role” her patriarchal society expects of her.  Aibleen and Minny find the courage and power to speak out against the discrimination and unreasonable lifestyle they lead.

Men play little to no role in the film (in my opinion). The story and characters demonstrate the power female relationships have as long as they are not battered down by societal fears and expectations.