It's rare that you find a movie that is so close to the book, to the point where the book could literally become the script. I knew from the day it made its appearance at the 2009 Sundance Film Festival it was going to be something special. The power from the movie, as well as the book, can be a bit overwhelming but that just means it has touched your soul. But if you are familar with any of Lee Daniels', the director, work (
Monster's Ball, Shadowboxer, and
Tennessee). Off first glance Precious may be seen as a dark and depressing film, but trust me it is much more than that. It is not an easy film to sit through, but despite all of that it is filled with an ulifting spirit of hope.
The cast from
Precious is outstanding and is the perfect chemistry of actors and actresses. No one really outshines the other, and each has a contributing role that creates the strong foundation. All the characters from Monique to Mariah Carey to Paula Patton to newbies Lenny Kravitz and Gabourey Sidibe bring a balance that definitely with put a couple of postive notches on their belts. And considering Gabourey Sidibe (who plays Precious) has no prior acting experience nails this role effortlessly. I am truly blown away how everyone immersed themselves into their roles truly making it believable to the viewer. The screenplay is brilliant, never feeling slow or rushed. The pacing of this film is steady enough that we're engrossed the entire time.
Now I don't normally do this, but as I watched this film I could not help but magnify the role of Mary played by Monique. Many might interpret Monique as playing the "villain" in this movie; however the film gives her more character than what you'd expect from a villain. She plays with such conviction and performs so well, that you can't help but sympathize with her for just a brief moment over Precious. I would truly surprised if she is not nominated for this role, because she literally killed it and brought it back to life. The fact that Daniels used several singers as well as comedians can be seen as a disaster but in this is did just the opposite, and quite well I might add!
Daniels conveys a Harlem existence that is profane, hard-edged and brutal, but with rays of humanity and compassion that leave room for hope. It is at once both a message to the poor in spirit not to despair, and to the rest of us make the time and effort to reach out where we can. Push is an inspiring message that will fill you with optimism and joy.
Precious is that type of movie that takes you into a world of true existing life stories. Now I do realize that there is a bit of deviation from the book (written by Sapphire), but to me it still flows to where it still works. One can help but feel, smell, and visualize the impact of this movie. So far, Precious is sweeping the festivals and is looking like it's on a road to Oscar glory, and well deserved.
Now when you leave this film if there is nothing else that you take from the film....take the will and desire to "PUSH" through any and everything.
Grade: A
