Something happened to me this week at the movie theatre. Something that in this world of commercialism and instant gratification is seldom accomplished. I was moved, inspired and left to dry a train of tears with the sleeve of my hoody.
"Precious: Based on the Novel "Push" by Sapphire" is a gut wrenching coming of age story about personal triumph in an unimaginable set of circumstances. Set in Harlem in 1987, we meet an obese, pregnant and abused, illiterate African-American teenager named Clareece "Precious" Jones with dreams as big as your's and mine.
Gabourey "Gabby" Sidibe's portrayal of Precious is flawless. Mo'Nique poses a undeniable threat for the Oscar as Mary Jones, Precious' physically and mentally abusive mother. Lee Daniels' stunning direction seamlessly mends the harsh reality and fantasy world of these deeply complex characters. The ensemble cast members each contribute something memorable with notable performance by Sherri Shepard, Lenny Kravitz and none other than Mariah Carey.
Novelist, Sapphire, held on to her story since its publishing in 1996 out of fear that in the wrong hands, Precious would be boxed in. The right adaptation would allow one to experience the pain of Precious but not leave her shamed. After initially telling director Lee Daniels no, it was not until she saw the film "Monster's Ball" which Daniels produced that she felt she had found the right hands. I am sure co-producers Oprah Winfrey and Tyler Perry helped to ease this decision.
Be advised that this movie contains REAL language and strong imagines of physical and sexual abuse. Admittedly, there were moments I had to cover my eyes. All in all, a remarkable depiction of a journey that induces empathy and warrants a reevaluation of priorities and individual accomplishments.
Official Website:
Thank you Precious.
-SMA
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