Review of Precious: Based on the Novel 'Push' by Sapphire (2009) by Thomas W — 13 Nov 2011

Shocking and sensational! The fact that this is based on a true story is horrifying. I was blown away with the performances in this film -- who'd have thought some of these "actresses" had such talent? I'd have never bet on Mo'Nique or Mariah Carey giving award-worthy performances; but they sure-as-hell did here.

If Monique does NOT win the Best Supporting Actress Oscar this coming year ... something is horribly wrong (or Anna Kendrick is just better). Mariah Carey might not make the Academy shortlist ... but I'd almost guarantee she'll get a supporting nod to the Golden Globes.

As for the film's lead, Gabourey "Gabby" Sidibe is stunning -- AND she's never acted before! She is precious, stellar and heartbreaking. Color me impressed with the acting in this movie -- they should all clear a space on their mantles for the SAG Ensemble Award (also very good are The View's Sherri Shepherd and musician Lenny Kravitz who plays a male nurse who provides Precious with some much-needed hope).

I am sure the story could have been pieced together a bit more and it could have used a little more development; but this is a worthy film by a reasonably new director (even with Helen Mirren his Shadowboxer was horrid).

Lee Daniels shows some promise. The film is brutal, bleak and exasperating as it paints a true-to-life portrait of so many brow-beaten, hopeless and lost individuals that simply need to be loved by someone -- anyone.

Precious will be talked about for several months to come.