I know EXACTLY WHAT YOU MEAN. Exactly. In fact, you've just described what I want from my birth. The thing I think I've feared most is losing control - thrashing, screaming, uncontrolled wasting of energy - I just want it to be peaceful, calm, and controlled. I know it may be work! But why does it have to be like it is in the movies?
Hugs to you, I am believing for a calm birth for both of us! I have been doing a hypnobirthing thingy for months now, to prepare my subconscious, and surrounding myself by birthing stories that are positiv, uplifting, and triumphant. I'm not unaware that things could possibly go awry, but I'm not counting on it! You know?
And I'm homebirthing as well! Due today actually... he he he...

So be encouraged. We have within us the possibility of calm and empowering birth. I just checked out the video that Kelly posted in this forum, the Mind Movie Birth Visualisation - definitely worth checking out!!