Precious (2009)

Director: Lee Daniels

Starring: Gabourey Sidibe, Mo’Nique, Paula Patton

In New York City’s Harlem circa 1987, an overweight, abused, illiterate teen who is pregnant with her second child is invited to enroll in an alternative school in hopes that she can re-route her life in a better direction.

‘Precious’ is not my kind of movie. Yes, having said that, this is a very well made movie with excellent performances and such a powerful message that you should probably make an effort to see it.

Gabourey Sidibe delivers a wonderful performance as Precious. She is 16 and pregnant with her second child – from her father! Ok, I know how this sounds, but you have to watch the movie to understand how this happened, and the circumstances that lead to this.

When Precious is expelled from school (because of her second pregnancy), her Principal suggests she goes to an alternate school, which she does – without her mother’s approval. Mo’Nique stars as Mary, Precious’ unemployed, foul-mouthed mother who wants Precious to apply for welfare grant. (Mo’Nique was incredible in this performance, especially during the film’s finale).

What I didn’t understand about Precious when she started at the special school, is the fact she could not read at all. If she was in a normal school in the first place, then surely she must have been able to read. She was in junior high after all… She can’t get to junior high without being able to read. This made no sense.

With all the racial remarks and the foul language that hurt my ears, I was tempted to stop watching just a few minutes into the movie. However, I was curious to see what would become of Precious – because I really cared about this character. I sympathized with her for having such an abusive mother, and her circumstances.

Did I find the film entertaining? Honestly, no, I didn’t. As mentioned, this is not my kind of movie, so I was not entertained. I wanted it to end so that I could see Precious’ fate. That’s it. Did I find it inspirational? Yes, definitely. To see a young girl determined to break the shackles of her dire existence to follow her dreams, is inspirational and uplifting. The film also had a satisfying conclusion. The film’s highlight, by far, were the strong performances.

‘Precious’ earned $63.6 million on a $10 million budget. It received 216 award nominations, winning 113 including two Oscars (Best Supporting Actress for Mo’Nique, off course, and Best Screenplay).

Would I watch it again? No.