The Color Purple (1985)

In 1909 Celie (played by Whoopi Goldberg) is just 14 years old. She lives with her abusive father, Alphonso (played by Adolph Caesar), and her younger sister, Nettie (played by Akosua Busia). Celie becomes pregnant twice, both times fathered by her own father, and Alphonso takes away her babies immediately after they are born.

Years later, Celie, now in her early 20s, has become a subdued and submissive woman, married to a violent and cruel man named Albert, or "Mr." (played by Danny Glover). Mr. Is mostly interested in Celie as a maid, and he mistreats her regularly. Mr. Has his eyes set on Nettie, who is visiting Celie, but Nettie rejects his advances and leaves for Africa to become a missionary.

Celie befriends a saucy woman named Sofia (played by Oprah Winfrey), who is married to Mr.'s eldest son, Harpo (played by Willard E. Pugh). Sofia is strong-willed and refuses to let Harpo dominate her. Harpo seeks advice from Celie on how to control Sofia, but Celie encourages him to treat her with respect instead.

One day, Shug Avery (played by Margaret Avery), a vibrant, sultry jazz singer, arrives at their home to perform. Celie is instantly captivated by Shug's independence and beauty. Mr. Happens to be in love with Shug, who he sees as his own trophy. For a brief period, Celie and Shug develop a secret romantic relationship, finding solace and passion in each other's company.

Earl, Mr.'s father, informs him that Nettie is seeing a new man, thus sparking Mr.'s anger. He threatens to drive Nettie away and forbids Celie from seeing her sister or reading the letters Nettie sends. Celie discovers a hidden stash of Nettie's letters, confirming that Nettie is alive and well in Africa. Celie reads the letters secretly, while managing to hide her stepson Harpo and Sofia's growing marital problems.

Sofia's refusal to back down and Harpo's attempt to assert his authority within their relationship escalate into a physical altercation, leading to Sofia's arrest and eventual lengthy imprisonment. Harpo realises his mistakes and begins to change his attitude toward Sofia.

Meanwhile, Shug, who had been ill, starts to build a bond with Celie, teaching her about self-worth, personal strength, and love. Despite the love triangle between Celie, Shug, and Mr, they form a strong support network. Celie begins a journey of self-discovery and empowerment.

Years go by, and Celie finally takes a stand against Mr.'s abuse, declaring that she is leaving him. Shug, who has become terminally ill, decides to make peace with her estranged father and leaves Celie in charge of her home. Celie transforms the rundown house into a thriving business where she manufactures and sells pants, gaining economic independence. Nettie returns with Celie's two long-lost children, who were adopted by a missionary couple. Celie is overjoyed at the reunion with Nettie and her children.