Now, Voyager (1942)

"Oh Jerry, don't let's ask for the moon. We have the stars"

I absolutely adore this romantic film! I selected it as the Flicks & Forks Valentine's Day pick because Bette Davis and Paul Henreid's electric on-screen chemistry is simply captivating. Their passionate yet forbidden love practically radiates off the screen, leaving me misty-eyed just thinking about it. As a true romantic at heart, I find Paul Henreid's performance particularly swoon-worthy - he has a remarkable talent for tugging at the heartstrings, much like in his iconic role in Casablanca. But in
Now, Voyager his romantic gestures, like the way he so tenderly lights a cigarette, are even more swoony and impactful. Whether you watch it solo or with a special someone, if you have even the slightest romantic inclination, I guarantee you'll fall head over heels for this film. You've just got to see it for yourself - it's an absolute gem!

In the Boston mansion of her domineering, aristocratic mother (Gladys Cooper), the frumpy, thirty-something Charlotte Vale (Bette Davis) leads a life utterly under her mother's control. Fearing a nervous breakdown, Charlotte's sister-in-law Lisa (Ilka Chase) discreetly brings in psychiatrist Dr. Jaquith (Claude Rains) to evaluate her. Dr. Jaquith's assessment convinces him that Charlotte needs help, and he strongly recommends that she visit his Cascade sanitarium to recover.

Dr. Jaquith, Lisa, Mrs. Vale; Charlotte's domineering mother, Mrs. Vale; Charlotte, Lisa, Mrs. Vale

Away from her mother's influence, Charlotte rapidly regains her exuberance. However, she is not yet prepared to go back home. Instead, she accepts Lisa's offer to get away and have time to herself on an extended cruise. On the ship, Charlotte meets the married Jerry Durrance (Paul Henreid), and the two develop an unforeseen bond. After they become stranded together in Rio, their love blossoms, but because Jerry is married, they vow never to see each other again.

Charlotte and Jerry

Charlotte's transformation and return to Boston shocks her family. Her mother attempts to regain authority over her, but a timely gift of camellias from Jerry only reinforces Charlotte's determination. Trying to move on with her life, she becomes engaged to Elliot Livingston (John Loder), but a chance meeting with Jerry makes Charlotte realize her heart belongs with him. Charlotte’s broken engagement to Elliot infuriates Mrs. Vale so intensely that it leads to her untimely death.

Charlotte with flowers from Jerry & telling her mother she won't marry Elliot is off; Charlotte saying goodbye to Elliot

Distraught over her mother’s death, Charlotte returns to Cascade, where she takes charge of Tina (Janis Wilson), Jerry's troubled daughter. Through her unwavering care and guidance, Tina's condition steadily improves. Charlotte brings Tina to her home in Boston, but only on the condition that she and Jerry end their affair. Though Charlotte had to sacrifice her own chance at love, she finds solace in the role of mentor and protector to Tina - a role that Jerry has, in a sense, "gifted" to her.

Charlotte on a day out with Jerry’s daughter, Tina

This film is an exceptionally romantic story, captivating audiences with its poignant story of falling in love with a man one cannot have, and the tender care shown for his daughter. It also subtly transformed the way people viewed the simple act of smoking a cigarette - a nuanced detail that lingers in the memory of those who have seen it. Ultimately, it is the film's profoundly romantic ending that leaves the deepest impression, summarized in Charlotte's beautiful final words to Jerry: "Jerry, don't let's ask for the moon; we have the stars." This poetic line perfectly captures the bittersweet nature of their love.

This film is a MUST WATCH movie on Valentine’s Day, whether you’re alone or sharing the evening with someone. Settle in and get ready to be swept away. Just be sure to have a box of tissues handy - this movie ends with loving tears! Trust me, you won't want to miss it.

Happy Valentine’s Day,
…Jill

(See my special Valentine’s Day Gift offer below the recipe)

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Flicks & Forks Valentine’s Day Dinner Choice…

Stuffed Shells

This Stuffed Shells recipe is the epitome of eloquent, creamy indulgence - a comforting, romantic meal perfect for a Valentine’s Day dinner with your special someone. Large pasta shells filled with a luscious blend of ricotta, ground beef, and mozzarella, then baked in a richly flavored marinara sauce until bubbly and golden is sure to make Valentine’s Day dinner special. This dish embodies the romantic essence of Italian cuisine, delivering a homemade romantic touch that elevates it to the height of culinary delight.

Serve with a glass of wine and follow up with a slice of strawberry or raspberry cheesecake! Yummy to be sure! After dinner, curl up on the sofa with your special someone and watch the Flicks & Forks suggested Valentine’s Day film!

What You Need:

Stuffed Shells

• 20–25 jumbo pasta shells

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef

• 1 cup ricotta cheese

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 large egg

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

• 1/2 tsp onion powder

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Sauce:

• 3 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or make your own)

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Garnish:

• Fresh basil leaves, chopped

• Additional Parmesan cheese

What to do:

Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

2. Cook the jumbo pasta shells until al dente, following the package instructions (usually 10–12 minutes). Don’t overcook since the shells will also bake in the oven.

3. Drain the shells and rinse them with cold water to prevent sticking. Set aside.

Prepare the Beef Filling

1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking into small pieces using a wooden spoon. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

3. Remove the skillet from heat and let the beef cool slightly.

4. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix until well combined.

5. Fold the cooked ground beef into the cheese mixture, stirring gently until evenly incorporated.

Prepare the Sauce

1. In the same skillet used for the beef, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat.

2. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

3. Stir in the marinara sauce and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer for 5 minutes.

Stuff the Shells

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.

3. Using a spoon, fill each cooked pasta shell with the ricotta beef mixture. Arrange the stuffed shells in the baking dish, open side up.

4. Pour the remaining marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells.

Now bake in the oven

1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.

2. Remove the foil, sprinkle additional mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top, and bake uncovered for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Garnish and Serve

1. Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes.

2. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and additional Parmesan cheese before serving.

Alright, you're all set! Now go ahead and take a seat at your cozy, candlelit dinner table and savor this wonderfully romantic meal. I hope you have a truly magical evening!

You can also see this recipe and others over at my Retro Recipe Box site!

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