The Courage to Love (2000)

In the heart of 19th-century New Orleans, a new societal order is taking shape. Creoles, the promising but controversial offspring of complex relationships between wealthy Europeans and African-Americans, are coming into their own. Amidst this emerging class is Henriette Delille, a devoutly religious Creole woman who dedicates her time to the church, education, and aiding those in need. The world as Henriette knows it is thrown into turmoil when her father Jean-Baptiste deserts her mother Pouponne to wed a white woman. Adding to her distress, Henriette is introduced to Paul Cartier, her prearranged 'caretaker'. However, Henriette, a woman of strong will and conviction, defies tradition and rejects Paul, an act that sends her mother spiraling into madness. Out of this chaos, solace arrives in the form of Gerard Gaultier, a French doctor who has fallen deeply in love with Henriette. Gerard presents her with an opportunity to escape the societal confines of New Orleans and live with him in France where they can marry legally. However, this proposition leaves Henriette at a crossroads, torn between her blossoming love for Gerard and her unwavering devotion to the church. Henriette's daring ideas of breaking age-old traditions and choosing her own path face severe opposition. Her heartfelt journey, ridden with obstacles, societal constraints and personal dilemmas, forms the crux of 'The Courage to Love'. Neither choice is easy, and Henriette must summon the strength to face whatever lies ahead. This film is a poignant exploration of love, faith, and the courage it takes to defy the world for what one believes in.

The Courage to Love is a drama movie featuring Vanessa Williams.

The Courage to Love is currently streaming for free (ad-supported) on Crackle, FILMRISE, Freevee, Plex, Plex Player, The Roku Channel and Tubi TV and it's also available on Hoopla and fuboTV.

It is also possible to buy The Courage to Love on Amazon Video and Apple TV.