🎙️🎬Full Movie Recap
“Precious,” directed by Lee Daniels and based on the novel “Push” by Sapphire, is a harrowing yet poignant exploration of resilience amidst overwhelming adversity. Set in 1987 Harlem, the film chronicles the life of Claireece “Precious” Jones, an illiterate and obese 16-year-old African American girl portrayed by Gabourey Sidibe. Precious lives in a cycle of abuse and poverty, with a mother, Mary, played by Mo’Nique, whose cruelty knows no bounds. Despite the oppressive environment, Precious harbors dreams of a better life, fantasizing about being a celebrity with a loving family. These daydreams serve as her emotional refuge, offering a stark contrast to her grim reality.
The film delves into the heartbreaking layers of Precious’s life, revealing the sexual and physical abuse she endures from both her father and mother. She is pregnant with her second child, both fathered by her own father, and is subsequently expelled from school for her condition. However, Precious’s life begins to take a turn when she is offered the chance to attend an alternative school called Each One Teach One. Here, under the guidance of Ms. Rain, played by Paula Patton, Precious begins to learn to read and write, finding both solace and empowerment in education. Ms. Rain provides a nurturing presence that starts to break through Precious’s defenses, encouraging her to express herself through writing.
As Precious’s confidence grows, the film also introduces a support network that begins to form around her. This includes her classmates at Each One Teach One, who, despite their own struggles, offer camaraderie and understanding. The school becomes a sanctuary where Precious can express herself freely and envision a future beyond the confines of her previous life. The narratives of her classmates also serve to highlight the broader issues facing marginalized communities, painting a vivid picture of the systemic challenges they face. Through these interactions, the film underscores the importance of community and the ways in which personal connections can catalyze healing and change.
Mo’Nique’s performance as Mary, Precious’s abusive mother, is both riveting and deeply unsettling. The film reaches a critical emotional peak during a confrontation between Precious and her mother, where Mary’s own vulnerabilities and history of abuse are laid bare. This moment adds complexity to her character, illustrating the cyclical nature of abuse and the ways in which unresolved trauma manifests in destructive behavior. Despite this insight, the film does not excuse Mary’s actions, instead highlighting the strength it takes for Precious to break free from her mother’s toxic grip and strive for her own independence.
“Precious” culminates in a bittersweet but hopeful conclusion, with Precious finally taking control of her own narrative. As she walks away from her old life with her two children, she embodies the resilience and determination needed to forge a new path. The film’s raw portrayal of abuse, poverty, and redemption is both unsettling and inspiring, offering no easy resolutions but rather acknowledging the complexity of healing. Gabourey Sidibe’s performance as Precious anchors the film with authenticity and depth, capturing the character’s journey from silence to self-expression. “Precious” leaves a lasting impact, challenging viewers to confront uncomfortable truths while celebrating the indomitable spirit of its protagonist.
🎥🔥Best Dialogues and Quotes
Certainly! Here are some quotes from the movie “Precious” (2009) along with a breakdown of each:
“The other day, I cried. But you know what? Fuck that day. That’s why God, or whoever, makes other days.”
This quote reflects resilience and the belief in the possibility of a fresh start. It emphasizes the idea that no matter how difficult a day might be, there is always a chance for renewal and change.
“Sometimes I wish I was dead. But then I think about the baby.”
Here, Precious expresses her struggle with despair, yet she finds a reason to keep going through the thought of her unborn child. It highlights the power of hope and responsibility as motivators for survival.
“I ain’t dumb. Most folks with regular jobs is dumb. You don’t have to be smart to work, you just have to do what they tell you.”
This quote challenges societal perceptions of intelligence and competence, underscoring a critical view of what is often valued in the workforce versus true intellect and potential.
“I feel like I’m gonna break, like I’m gonna die. I wish I could go outside and talk to somebody.”
Precious’s yearning for connection and support is evident here. It speaks to the human need for community and the pain of isolation.
“Love ain’t done nothing for me, but take away things.”
This reflects Precious’s experiences with love as something that has been more harmful than nurturing, a poignant commentary on her life and relationships.
“I can’t read, but I can cook, clean, and fight. I can learn too.”
This statement embodies Precious’s determination and belief in her potential to grow and overcome her limitations, emphasizing a proactive approach to life.
“My favorite color is purple. I like red but I ain’t no red person.”
This simple expression of preference reveals Precious’s individuality and her understanding of personal identity, even in small matters.
“I want to be on the cover of a magazine. But if not, that’s okay, ’cause I’ve got other dreams.”
Here, Precious shows ambition and adaptability, illustrating the importance of having multiple aspirations and the ability to adjust expectations.
“I’m gonna break through or somebody gonna break through to me.”
This speaks to Precious’s desire for change and growth, highlighting her openness to transformation, whether it comes from within or through external influence.
“When I look into the mirror, I see someone who’s strong.”
This quote reflects self-empowerment and the journey to self-acceptance, emphasizing the importance of recognizing one’s own strength and value.
“Nobody loves me. People do love me. I love myself.”
This reflects the internal conflict between self-doubt and self-love, ultimately pointing to the necessity of self-acceptance and inner validation.
“I never knew what high school was. I thought it was something in the TV.”
This highlights the gap between Precious’s reality and mainstream experiences, pointing to themes of poverty, education, and awareness.
“You ain’t gotta tell me, I know who I am.”
Precious asserts her self-awareness and individuality, rejecting external definitions and affirming self-identity.
“I scream, but it’s just me. Nobody hears. Nobody sees. Just me.”
This captures the sense of isolation and invisibility that Precious feels, a powerful commentary on neglect and the silent struggles many face.
“I wish I could just float away.”
This reveals a desire for escape and freedom from her circumstances, reflecting the human tendency to dream of liberation from suffering.
“I feel like I can fly. Really, I feel like I am somebody.”
This moment of empowerment and self-recognition signifies Precious’s growth and the realization of her own worth and potential.
“I can’t count on nobody but me.”
Precious underscores self-reliance and the reality that she has often had to depend on herself, highlighting themes of independence and survival.
“I hope you find something that make you happy. But not too happy, ’cause then you might forget about me.”
This reveals a complex mix of love, fear, and dependency, illustrating the intricacies of human relationships and the fear of being forgotten.
“I am here. You see me. Do you see me?”
Precious’s plea for recognition and acknowledgment speaks to a universal desire for visibility and validation in a world where she often feels overlooked.
“I am precious.”
This simple yet powerful assertion marks a turning point in self-acceptance and identity, encapsulating the movie’s core message of recognizing one’s intrinsic value.
🎬🔍 Behind-the-Scenes Facts
Adaptation from a Novel
The film “Precious” is based on the 1996 novel “Push” by Sapphire. The author chose the name “Push” to symbolize the protagonist’s determination to push through her struggles.
Lee Daniels’ Directorial Vision
Director Lee Daniels, known for his bold storytelling, personally financed parts of “Precious” to ensure his vision remained intact, even when faced with budget constraints.
Gabourey Sidibe’s Audition
Gabourey Sidibe, who played the lead role of Precious, was discovered at an open casting call. She had no prior professional acting experience before landing this role.
Critical Acclaim for Mo’Nique
Mo’Nique’s performance as Mary, Precious’ abusive mother, earned her an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress, demonstrating her incredible range and depth as an actress.
Mariah Carey’s Transformation
Mariah Carey, known for her glamorous persona, underwent a significant transformation to play the role of Ms. Weiss, Precious’ social worker. She appeared without makeup, showcasing her versatility as an actress.
Oprah Winfrey and Tyler Perry’s Influence
The film gained significant attention when Oprah Winfrey and Tyler Perry signed on as executive producers, using their platforms to promote the film to a wider audience.
Impactful Film Locations
“Precious” was primarily shot in Harlem, New York, which added authenticity to the film’s depiction of urban life and the challenges faced by its characters.
Theme of Education
Education plays a pivotal role in the film, serving as Precious’ lifeline. Her journey highlights the transformative power of learning and personal growth.
Soundtrack and Musical Elements
The film’s soundtrack features a mix of original scores and existing songs that enhance its emotional depth, with music playing a crucial role in conveying Precious’ inner world.
Emotional and Social Impact
“Precious” sparked conversations about issues such as abuse, poverty, and literacy, drawing attention to the struggles of marginalized individuals and inspiring social change.
🎭🍿 Hidden Easter Eggs & Trivia
“Precious,” directed by Lee Daniels and based on the novel “Push” by Sapphire, is a film that delves deeply into the human spirit’s resilience amidst adversity. One lesser-known fact about the film’s production is that it was initially considered an unlikely candidate for mainstream success due to its raw and challenging subject matter. Despite this, it garnered significant attention at the Sundance Film Festival, where it won both the Grand Jury Prize and the Audience Award. The film’s journey to the big screen was a testament to its compelling narrative and the dedication of its cast and crew to bring an authentic, unflinching story to life.
Behind the scenes, the casting of Mo’Nique as Mary, Precious’s abusive mother, was a bold choice that ultimately paid off. Mo’Nique, known primarily for her comedic roles, delivered a chilling performance that earned her an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress. Interestingly, the role required her to tap into a dark and intense emotional place, which she later described as both challenging and cathartic. Lee Daniels pushed for a raw authenticity in the performances, often foregoing traditional rehearsals to capture genuine reactions and emotions, creating an atmosphere where the actors could fully immerse themselves in their characters.
Adding depth to the film, “Precious” is filled with subtle cinematic choices that enhance its narrative. For example, the use of color and light often reflects Precious’s emotional state and her journey from darkness into moments of hope. The dream sequences, which are a stark contrast to her grim reality, utilize vibrant colors and exaggerated settings to highlight her inner life and aspirations. These artistic decisions are not mere visual flourishes but serve as a psychological window into Precious’s mind, offering viewers a deeper understanding of her character beyond her external circumstances.
The film also cleverly incorporates easter eggs and subtleties that enrich its storytelling. One notable example is the inclusion of music that reflects Precious’s inner world and the era’s cultural backdrop. The soundtrack, featuring artists like Mary J. Blige, aligns with Precious’s dreams of a better life and her ultimate quest for self-worth. Additionally, Lee Daniels included personal touches, such as photographs and objects in the background, which were drawn from his own life experiences, adding layers of authenticity and connection to the narrative.
The psychological impact of “Precious” is profound, as it delves into themes of self-worth, trauma, and redemption. The film portrays the cycles of abuse and neglect with unflinching honesty, prompting viewers to confront uncomfortable truths about societal and familial dysfunction. It highlights the importance of education and community support in breaking these cycles, as seen through Precious’s transformative relationship with her teacher, Ms. Rain. This psychological exploration invites audiences to empathize with those who have endured similar struggles, fostering a broader understanding of resilience and healing.
Since its release, “Precious” has left a lasting legacy on the film industry and beyond. It challenged Hollywood’s conventions by showcasing a story centered on an African-American female protagonist facing systemic obstacles. The film’s critical and commercial success paved the way for more diverse narratives and highlighted the need for representation in cinema. Its impact extends beyond the screen, inspiring conversations about race, class, and the power of storytelling in fostering social change. “Precious” remains a powerful testament to the human capacity for survival and the transformative power of empathy and understanding.
🍿⭐ Reception & Reviews
## Precious (2009): Reception and Reviews
**Summary:** “Precious” is a harrowing drama directed by Lee Daniels, adapted from the novel “Push” by Sapphire. It tells the story of Claireece “Precious” Jones, a severely abused and neglected African-American teenager in 1980s Harlem, who finds hope and empowerment through an alternative education program.
**Critical Reception:**
* **Overwhelmingly Positive:** Critics lauded “Precious” for its powerful performances, unflinching depiction of poverty and abuse, and ultimately hopeful message. The film was particularly praised for its ability to elicit empathy and understanding for Precious’s plight.
* **Notable Themes Discussed:** Reviews frequently addressed the film’s handling of:
* **Poverty and Systemic Issues:** The film’s portrayal of the social and economic forces that contribute to cycles of abuse and neglect.
* **Resilience and Hope:** Precious’s determination to overcome her circumstances and build a better future.
* **Performance Acclaim:** The transformative performances of Gabourey Sidibe (Precious), Mo’Nique (Mary, Precious’s mother), and Paula Patton (Ms. Rain, Precious’s teacher) were almost universally celebrated.
* **Criticisms:** Some criticisms focused on:
* **Melodrama:** A small contingent felt the film occasionally leaned too heavily into melodrama, potentially exploiting Precious’s suffering.
* **Stereotyping:** Concerns were raised about whether the film perpetuated harmful stereotypes about African-American communities, particularly regarding single motherhood and welfare dependency. However, this was a minority viewpoint.
**Audience Response:**
* **Polarizing but Ultimately Positive:** “Precious” generated strong emotional reactions. Some found it too difficult to watch due to its graphic and disturbing content. However, many viewers were deeply moved and inspired by Precious’s story of survival.
* **Word-of-Mouth:** Strong word-of-mouth contributed to the film’s success, particularly within the African-American community, who saw the film as a raw and honest portrayal of a difficult reality.
* **Emotional Impact:** Audience reviews often highlighted the film’s ability to evoke empathy and spark conversations about important social issues.
**Notable Reviews:**
* **Roger Ebert (Chicago Sun-Times):** 4/4 stars. He called it “a film of great compassion and profound emotional impact,” praising Sidibe’s performance as “astonishing.”
* **A.O. Scott (The New York Times):** “A raw, intense and frequently overpowering experience…Gabourey Sidibe is a revelation.”
* **Peter Travers (Rolling Stone):** 3.5/4 stars. He praised Mo’Nique’s performance as “a devastating portrait of unspeakable abuse.” He also noted the film’s ultimate message of hope.
**Awards and Recognition:**
“Precious” received widespread critical acclaim and numerous awards, including:
* **Academy Awards:**
* Won: Best Supporting Actress (Mo’Nique)
* Won: Best Adapted Screenplay (Geoffrey Fletcher)
* Nominated: Best Picture
* Nominated: Best Director (Lee Daniels)
* Nominated: Best Actress (Gabourey Sidibe)
* Nominated: Best Film Editing
* **Golden Globe Awards:**
* Won: Best Supporting Actress (Mo’Nique)
* Nominated: Best Motion Picture – Drama
* Nominated: Best Actress – Motion Picture Drama (Gabourey Sidibe)
* **Screen Actors Guild Awards:**
* Won: Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Supporting Role (Mo’Nique)
* **Sundance Film Festival:**
* Won: Grand Jury Prize (Drama)
* Won: Audience Award (Drama)
* Won: Special Jury Prize for Acting (Mo’Nique)
* **Independent Spirit Awards:**
* Won: Best Feature
* Won: Best Director (Lee Daniels)
* Won: Best Actress (Gabourey Sidibe)
* Won: Best Supporting Actress (Mo’Nique)
* Won: Best First Screenplay (Geoffrey Fletcher)
**Conclusion:**
“Precious” was a critically acclaimed and commercially successful film that sparked important conversations about poverty, abuse, and resilience. While its graphic content proved challenging for some viewers, its powerful performances and ultimately hopeful message resonated with many, earning it numerous awards and solidifying its place in cinematic history. The film’s success also brought significant attention to the issues faced by marginalized communities and the power of education in breaking cycles of poverty and abuse.