PRECIOUS: BASED ON THE NOVEL 'PUSH' BY SAPPHIRE (2009) [nom.]
dir. Lee Daniels [nom.]
writer. Geoffrey Fletcher [OSCAR]
Starring: Gabourey Sidibe [nom.], Mo'Nique [OSCAR], Paula Patton, Lenny Kravitz and Mariah Carey
ONE SENTENCE SYNOPSIS: Harlam, 1987. Sixteen year old Claireece 'Precious' Jones (Sidibe) is overweight and illiterate; having been suspended from school for being pregnant for the second time (by her father), Precious is enrolled in "Each One Teach One", an alternative school run by the kind Ms. Rain (Patton)
"The other day, I cried. But you know what? Fuck that day.
That's why God, or whoever, makes other days." ~ PRECIOUS
THOUGHTS: this is a hard film at times; very hard to watch. But I love how it doesn't have easy answers, it doesn't have simple choices or resolutions. It's very real, in that regard. Part of me doesn't love the "fantasy" elements (mainly because they stop half-way and never seem to reflect how Precious is feeling, or dreams and desires she has relevant to the script). The performances (meticulously crafted by Lee Daniels) make the movie. From newcomer Sidibe, to Mo'Nique's career defining (and Oscar winning) performance. Everyone shines. Mariah Carey should do more acting roles, she's so good (so believable, and low-key and relaxed). And Lenny Kravitz again impresses me (though again the role isn't a huge stretch, he still does it with poise and comfort). This is an important film in black cinema history. Lee Daniels becomes the second ever black director to be nominated for Best Director and Geoffrey Fletcher became the first black writer to win an Oscar for writing. The whole film is visceral and brutal BUT (surprisingly) gives you hope by the end; not a "Hollywood ending"; but honest hope for a better tomorrow.
OVERALL
A powerful film; that surprisingly brings warmth to even the darkest of places. A strong ensemble, and cliche free script make this incredibly enjoyable (though hard going at times). Strong ensemble work from everyone involved.
~ rating: 4 out of 5 [grade: A-]