I was lucky enough to go the Vogue screening of “PRECIOUS” this week. If you haven’t heard of this movie yet, you will. I first heard about it on Oprah a few months back, and I can wholeheartedly say that it’s hands down THE BEST MOVIE I'VE EVER SEEN. I’m sure it’ll sweep the Oscars – 2010 Best Picture’s definitely within reach.
Executive Producer’s Oprah Winfrey and Tyler Perry give it star power – along with fantastic performances by Mariah Carey and Lenny Kravitz. Although both are hard to recognize – Mariah in social worker garb and Lenny in scrubs as a male nurse. Director, Lee Daniel’s, is best know for Monster’s Ball and Shadowboxer. The lead, Claireece “Precious” Jones, played by Gabourey Sidibe is a fresh talent who’s circumstances have and will continue to drastically change from this movie. She's incredible. Although a tough storyline, it’s hard to watch. Without going into the graphics - Precious is a 350 lb sixteen-year-old African-American girl, born into a life no one would want. Her mom is a toxic woman who abuses her emotionally, physically and sexually to no end. Precious is raped and made pregnant by her father twice, and learns that he gave her HIV. She’s never even had a boyfriend. Sadly these aren’t even the most graphic parts… and worst of all it’s based on a true story set in Harmlem in 1987 – from the novel “Push” by Sapphire. A woman’s true struggle in overcoming tremendous odds.
PRECIOUS has already done exceptionally well at the 2009 festivals - Cannes, Sundance, and the Toronto International Film Festival (go T!!). I can only imagine the further acclaim the winter awards season will bring – but what I know for sure (thanks Oprah) is this film will change how you view others. I’ve always known that we rarely truly know and appreciate the circumstances of others – I just never realized how horrifically bad some of those people’s struggles are... this film brings it close to home. The images don't stay at the theatre.
Never judge a person until you’ve walked a mile in his or her shoes.
We are all precious.
k
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