Precious (film)

Precious2009poster

Precious is a 2009 American drama film directed by Lee Daniels and based on the novel "Push" by Sapphire. The film stars Gabourey Sidibe in her debut role as the titular character, Precious, a young African-American woman living in Harlem in the late 1980s. The story follows Precious as she struggles to overcome a traumatic upbringing marked by abuse and poverty.

Plot

The film centers on Precious, an overweight and illiterate teenager who is pregnant with her second child by her own father. She is enrolled in an alternative school where she begins to learn to read and write. With the help of her teacher, Ms. Rain, and a social worker, Precious starts to confront her past and envision a better future for herself and her children.

Cast

The cast of Precious includes Gabourey Sidibe as Precious, Mo'Nique as her abusive mother Mary, Paula Patton as Ms. Rain, and Mariah Carey as a social worker. The performances in the film were widely acclaimed, particularly Mo'Nique's portrayal of Mary, which earned her an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress.

Production

Director Lee Daniels brought together a talented cast and crew to bring the story of Precious to life on screen. The film's gritty realism and emotional depth were achieved through careful direction and powerful performances. Precious premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in 2009 and went on to receive critical acclaim and several awards.

Reception

Precious received widespread praise for its raw and unflinching portrayal of difficult subject matter. Critics lauded the performances, direction, and storytelling, with many noting the film's impact and importance. The film was nominated for six Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director, and won two Oscars for Best Supporting Actress and Best Adapted Screenplay.

Legacy

Precious remains a significant film in the realm of independent cinema and is often cited as a powerful exploration of resilience and survival in the face of adversity. The movie's impact on audiences and the industry has solidified its place as a landmark work in contemporary cinema.