6 Movies That Celebrate Singledom

Waiting To Exhale (1995)

An uplifting ensemble piece, Waiting To Exhale is the feature-length directorial debut of Forest Whitaker, and is based upon the book of the same name – written by Terry McMillan. The author also adapted the book for the screen, along with Ronald Bass, to create a film that tells the story of four female friends leading very different lives – but each ultimately finding that independence and singledom is the better option.

One ends her liaison with a married man, one divorces her philandering husband and consequently makes a large financial gain, one ends her relationship with the married father of her unborn baby – choosing to raise the child alone – and one finally accepts the inevitable and allows her teenage son to participate in a long-distance trip for the first time.

With the friends played by Angela Bassett, Whitney Houston, Lela Rochon and Loretta Devine, respectively, Waiting To Exhale depicts the clarity achieved by adults who opt for their own company – relinquishing their grip on relationships that are stalling the lives of all involved, and embracing their singledom. The strength of the movie comes from the range of relationships on display. Though each has its specific problems, whether romantic or parental, the change in relationship status is always key to the satisfying resolution.