Set Me Free

Hanna, a 13-year-old girl living in Montreal, circa the early '60s, has a troubled home life. Her fragile mom works in a garment factory to support the family, while dad, who aspires to be a published writer, makes a few bucks playing chess. Neither seems to understand Hanna. On the verge of womanhood, Hanna looks to the silver screen and finds a movie heroine she not only admires, but who also inspires her to take responsibility for herself. The recurring image of Hanna floating beneath a water's surface, holding her breath longer than seems possible, serves as a metaphor in this above-average coming-of-age story. A strong optional purchase. (T. Rich)