February 1, 2010
The film tells the story of Clareece ‘Precious’ Jones, a 16 year-old girl who is expecting her second child by her own father. She is also overweight, illiterate and mentally abused by her mother. Expelled, Precious is sent to an alternative school, where she is taught by Ms. Rain. Initially embarrassed to speak in class, Precious is eventually coaxed into participating and is set on a path to self-belief.
Undoubtedly, the themes of abuse, neglect, incest and deprivation do not make for ‘light’ viewing. Yet director Lee Daniels gives these issues a powerful treatment, such that the film is not only watchable, but captivating. The harsh reality of Precious’s situation is also interspersed with fantasy sequences, where the teenager dreams of escape and a life as a singer, a movie-star and, even, unpalatably, a white woman. In fact, race is just one of the issues represented here (along with homosexuality, gender, and disability), although these are not messages that are rammed down the audience’s throat. If the film does have a message, it’s that dependence on a welfare system is not healthy, or good for anyone.
The performances are praiseworthy revelations, particularly those of Gabourey Sidibe as the eponymous heroine, Mo'Nique as the girl’s abusive mother, and Paula Patton as the inspirational teacher. While it may be hard to imagine Sidibe in another role, she is surely a discovery in terms of the rawness she brings to the part. The performances given by Lenny Kravitz and Mariah Carey – which I am loath to call ‘cameos’, as I feel this would downplay the impact of their roles – are delivered with a subtle authenticity.
Here is a brave piece of work; heartbreaking, daring and thought-provoking. This might not be an easy film to watch, but it is one that demands to be seen.
Undoubtedly, the themes of abuse, neglect, incest and deprivation do not make for ‘light’ viewing. Yet director Lee Daniels gives these issues a powerful treatment, such that the film is not only watchable, but captivating. The harsh reality of Precious’s situation is also interspersed with fantasy sequences, where the teenager dreams of escape and a life as a singer, a movie-star and, even, unpalatably, a white woman. In fact, race is just one of the issues represented here (along with homosexuality, gender, and disability), although these are not messages that are rammed down the audience’s throat. If the film does have a message, it’s that dependence on a welfare system is not healthy, or good for anyone.
The performances are praiseworthy revelations, particularly those of Gabourey Sidibe as the eponymous heroine, Mo'Nique as the girl’s abusive mother, and Paula Patton as the inspirational teacher. While it may be hard to imagine Sidibe in another role, she is surely a discovery in terms of the rawness she brings to the part. The performances given by Lenny Kravitz and Mariah Carey – which I am loath to call ‘cameos’, as I feel this would downplay the impact of their roles – are delivered with a subtle authenticity.
Here is a brave piece of work; heartbreaking, daring and thought-provoking. This might not be an easy film to watch, but it is one that demands to be seen.