20 Jan Precious (Film Review)

Dir: Lee Daniels Starring: Mo’Nique, Mariah Carey, Paula Patton, Lenny Kravitz and Gabourey Sidibe. Based on the book Push by Sapphire, Precious’ story is one of harrowing sadness, unwavering strength and ultimately, triumph.  She is physically and sexually abused by both of her parents and after being expelled from school for being pregnant, she finds herself at an ‘alternative school’.  Here, guidance comes in the form of a new teacher by the name of Miss Rain (Paula Patton) and she finds friendship with her classmates.  Soon, an illiterate Precious (Gabourey Sidibe) learns to read and starts to raise her baby alone. Her life seems to be finding direction until misfortune rears it’s ugly head once again with the re-appearance of her mother, Mary (Mo’Nique). Precious’ life is harrowing and although few people have gone through what she did in the movie, her story isn’t unique.  You can see yourself in aspects of Precious and the glimmer of hope and strength running as an undercurrent throughout the movie unites everyone.  In short, the movie was intense, immense and ultimately exhilarating.  One of those films that leave you with a swelled feeling in your chest, a lump in your throat and a deep desire to leave the theatre and do something amazing with your life.