Mimi Polk

Thirteen high school students who have elected to spend the 1960-61 academic year on board the American schoolship Albatross learn about sailing and unity from their captain. When they encounter a white squall, a sudden, violent, wind-and-lightning storm, it turns into a test of courage and their will to survive.

Thelma is an abused and neglected wife, while her friend Louise is a bitter, hard-edged waitress. The two decide to take a brief vacation to escape the drudgery of their everyday lives. Immediately, they run into trouble, as Louise shoots and kills a man who tries to rape Thelma in the parking lot of a country bar.