Mariah Carey Connection

From 4 February
Rated: MA

Precious is one of those films that comes along all too rarely.   It is confronting and sad and shocking and funny and challenging - and for all these reasons, and a few more, it is worth seeing.

Precious Jones (Gabourey Sidibe) has seen more harsh treatment at sixteen than most people face in a lifetime.  Her home life is a horror story: she’s about to have her second child by her father and is virtually enslaved by her physically and emotionally abusive mother (Mo’Nique).  At school she’s teased for being overweight and harbors a secret shame—she doesn’t know how to read or write.

As challenging as her predicament is, Precious is endowed with a formidable inner strength that is waiting for an opportunity to be put to use.   She is transferred to an alternative school where she finds a mentor in Ms Rain (Paula Patton). 

Through Ms Rain’s caring, but relentless prodding, Precious learns to read and write, but more importantly, her newfound ability allows her to express herself in a way she has never done before. Through writing, Precious learns how to understand and examine her life.  Precious is the story of Precious’ strength, resilience, growth, and ultimate triumph.

Every performance in Precious is outstanding.   It’s almost impossible to be too kind to this group of actors.  Even Mariah Carey (who, let’s face it, is not renowned for her acting skill) delivers a believable performance as the counsellor, Mrs Weiss.  There are two stand-out performances though.   Mo’Nique delivers a sensational performance as Precious’ grotesque mother that is in turn chilling and heartbreaking.  Gabourey (Gaby) Sidibe makes a remarkable cinematic debut in the title role.   Prior to this movie, Sidibe’s acting experience had been limited to some college productions.  The depth of her performance belies her experience.   

This is the kind of story that is rarely told, about a character who society usually writes off, judges as a statistic, or simply ignores. It is a story of sometimes shocking truth that nonetheless touches on universal emotions and aspirations. You might not pay attention to Precious if she passed you on the street, but her story will sear your heart.

Really, do yourself a favour.  Go and see it.

Source: eBroadcast Australia