when we are used to something, it goes unnoticed. There are exceptions, of course, but should they really be 'exceptions' in today's society? How can a more advantageous portrayal not be used as frequently as the reverse? Take Lisbeth Salander, the feisty, intelligent protagonist of "The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo" series, for example. Not only does she share the limelight with the main male character, but she knows what she wants, sees injustice or a mystery unsolved, and does something about it. She has to work to get what she wants. In a fight against Miss 'I-need-some-new-Moschinos-now' Rebecca Bloomwood, Lisbeth would tear her hair extensions and Gucci handbag to shreds. Whilst most of us do have to raise our hands in the air and admit to a materialistic, shallower side at times, I can safely say that most of us would agree that the reverse is rather more inspiring. Perhaps the industry is afraid to show women's stronger side? Strength through uniqueness is all that is required. Something individual about a character that ensures they aren't just labelled as being fresh from the generic cookie cutter character maker. The attractive, successful, toned, tanned Jennifer Aniston who gains an extra spoonful of each factor through a man. Not new, not interesting. Nobody really cares. Women no longer depend on men for money or power -- so why make this the focus? I'm not cynical of a good love story, but women do not deserve such a punishment as to be