Movie Review and Summary: Precious

Author:
Holle Abee
Updated:
Sep 7, 2013

Precious Movie

I just finished watching the movie Precious, and I just had to come into the office and write a review! It affected me more than any movie has in a long, long time. You must see this film. It’s based on the novel Push, by Sapphire. It’s one of the most powerful movies I’ve ever seen. The plot is painfully raw, and the acting is so real that it’s almost like watching a documentary instead of a Hollywood creation.

Untrained actress Gabourey Sidibe shines in the title role of Claireece Precious Jones, a morbidly obese black teen from a Welfare home. Precious has been abused her entire life, by both her father and her mother. He father’s abuse was sexual. Because of his rapes, Precious has two children by him.

Precious’ mother constantly abuses her, also – verbally, emotionally, and physically. She uses the girl as a servant and as a meal ticket for her Welfare checks. The only stability in Precious’ life at this point is the grandmother, whose fear of her daughter prevents her from aiding her granddaughter.

Because of all the abuse, poor Precious has absolutely no self esteem. The two people in her life who should have been her protectors, her parents, served as her tormentors, instead. She describes herself as “ugly black grease to be washed from the street.” That's just so sad to me - that anyone could describe herself in those words.

Precious’ mother, Mary, is played by Mo’Nique. Who knew she was such an amazing actress? The scene with Mary and the social worker is truly unforgettable. In fact, it’s some of the best acting I’ve ever witnessed. As I was watching the scene, spellbound, I was wondering where Mo’Nique found all the razor-sharp emotion. There really are no words to describe it. You’ll just have to see it for yourself.

And speaking of the social worker, Mrs. Weiss – that part is played by Mariah Carey, whom I didn’t even recognize without all her glitter and makeup. She does an admirable job, also. I think it playing the part was a big step out of Ms. Carey's "comfort zone," if you know what I mean.

Precious is practically illiterate, yet in her inner city Harlem school, she’s considered a good student because she’s quiet and rarely causes any trouble. Obviously, her teachers don't care about learning - they seem to care only about classroom behavior. Because she doesn't cause the teachers problems, she receives little attention from the educators. Her life changes, however, when school officials discover that she’s pregnant and is subsequently kicked out of school. Her only option is to attend an alternative school.

The alternative class is taught by Ms. Rain, played by Paula Patton. Rain is a truly dedicated teacher who cares deeply about her students. Once Precious learns to trust and believe in Ms. Rain, she begins to believe in herself and starts to turn her life around. This really hit home with me and with many other viewers: It's amazing how one person can have such a profound impact on someone else's life.

This movie touched me on several levels, probably because of my years teaching at the high school level. Precious reminded me of several students I’ve known – lost souls searching for a way to assuage the pain in their lives. And I taught in a small town, so I can’t imagine how many teens in the crime-ridden public schools of the inner cities are suffering a similar fate to Precious. Unfortunately, far too many of these youth simply fall through the cracks. They don’t all have a Ms. Rain to catch them.

The only parts of the movie that didn’t completely work for me were Precious’ fantasies. She often daydreams about being a movie star or some other celebrity, where crowds of fans adore her. I suppose they fit in a way, however, since Precious’ ultimate goal was finding love and acceptance. I suppose one reason this was hard for me to relate to is because I had a very happy childhood, with two wonderful parents.

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Precious is an inspirational story of an improbable heroine overcoming almost insurmountable obstacles. The film will shock and anger you, but in the end, you’re sure to find it uplifting.

Comments

guest on May 02, 2012:

It was not a good film, based on the agenda and promotion.

silentwolf on June 21, 2011:

Great job on the summary and review. I myself blog on here too, so I was wondering do you mind looking at my page. and letting me know what you think? and if you dont mind leaving comments.thankyou for your time.

Holle Abee (author) from Georgia on May 17, 2011:

Lovely, I haven't been here much, either. Good to see ya!

Renee S from Virginia on April 20, 2011:

It sounds like a very touching movie. I love tear-jerkers. Hope you're doing well, Habee. It's been a while since I've been active on here.

Holle Abee (author) from Georgia on March 11, 2011:

Nicky, get out the tissues, girl!

Nicky Smart from United Kingdom on March 06, 2011:

sounds like one I need to watch at home so I can blubber without anyone watching me. Thanks for the review

Holle Abee (author) from Georgia on February 08, 2011:

cheryl, Precious was an awesome movie. I think I'm ready to watch it again!

Cheryl J. from Houston, TX on February 08, 2011:

Habee,

A great review and summary. I was amazed. I learned so much from watching the movie. Great hub.

Holle Abee (author) from Georgia on November 14, 2010:

Thanks, Sarah!

Sarah from Melbourne, Australia on November 11, 2010:

I understand what you mean about the fantasies, I didn't really like that either. Great Review :)

Holle Abee (author) from Georgia on April 25, 2010:

Genny, hope you enjoy it!

genny2000 on April 25, 2010:

good review i think i might watch the movie i was thinkin of seeing it and now i will !!!!!!!!

Holle Abee (author) from Georgia on March 18, 2010:

Don, how old is your daughter? The language is rough.

Holle Abee (author) from Georgia on March 17, 2010:

Sneak, I didn't cry - I was inspired!

Don Simkovich from Pasadena, CA on March 17, 2010:

My daughter is wanting to go see Precious . . . sounds like it's worthwhile and thought provoking.

sneakorocksolid on March 15, 2010:

Is it a crying movie? I hate to cry at the movies! Great Hub!

Holle Abee (author) from Georgia on March 15, 2010:

Joe, isn't it awesome?? Thanks for reading!

JOE BARNETT on March 15, 2010:

whew! i just saw it and. . . whew! it's really raw;a must see! great hub!

Holle Abee (author) from Georgia on March 14, 2010:

Okie dokey, Laurel!

Laurel Rogers from Bishop, Ca on March 14, 2010:

I thought it was only in theaters now...duh!

Bye!

Holle Abee (author) from Georgia on March 14, 2010:

Great, Idunn!

I'm tellin' ya, Msannec, Mo'Nique blew me away! She was unbelievable!

msannec from Mississippi (The Delta) on March 14, 2010:

Awesome review! I just saw the movie, and it is spectacular. Monique gave an interview, and in it she revealed that she was able to play that part and put so much into it because she was sexually abused by her brother when she was younger. She was incredible! So were Gabby and Mariah. I loved this movie, although it made me want to cry. Thanks for sharing your view!

Iðunn on March 14, 2010:

Yeah I just caught the ad for selling them yesterday. I am going to get. :)

Holle Abee (author) from Georgia on March 14, 2010:

Thanks, Sis! LEt me know how you like the movie!

Holle Abee (author) from Georgia on March 14, 2010:

Idunn, it's already out on video here, so maybe you can get it soon!

Angela Blair from Central Texas on March 13, 2010:

Superb review, Habee. I had planned on seeing the movie and after your review I'm definitely gonna see it. Thanks so much. Best, Sis

Iðunn on March 13, 2010:

great review, I so want to see this movie. Mo'Nique got the Oscar for it, I think the movie ended up with 4 Oscars actually.

It's not out for rent yet, so I haven't had a chance, but it's on my list.

You sound like me. I cry at everything. Sad movies, scary movies, happy movies, even boring movies. :p