Review of The Help (2011) by Nadine M — 17 Oct 2012

The Help, announced as a number one selling book by The New York Times, exposes the life struggles of two African American maids living in Jackson, Mississippi during the Civil Rights era. Through a secret novel, Skeeter and the maids of Mississippi were able to uncover the cruel treatment they received and racial tensions that existed in their town. Due to its compelling story line, meaningful dialogue and passionate characters, one is glued to the big screen. This movie described the difficult topic of racism in the south, in a way that the viewer not only receives a heavy plot but is also able to connect with its story line. The two main maid characters, Abilene and Minny, showed courage and strength throughout the film to depict their life struggles and created a stepping stone for maids to speak freely about their unfair treatment. The script allowed both characters to develop as the movie progressed by showing how the character's strengths overcame their challenges.

Director, Tate Taylor, captured the essence of the Civil Rights era through its costumes, location and setting. The location was presented in a segregated town which allowed the viewers to obtain a glimpse of the reality for that particular era. Character's homes, neighborhoods and costumes showed how segregation of races and classes were in strong effect. Both talented actresses, Emma Stone and Viola Davis, represented breaking the mold for women in that era with their convincing interpretations. Lastly, Cinematography was lightly touched through music, emphasizing moments of tension, fear and joy. Overall, the film captured one's attention from beginning to end in an inspiring and meaningful way.

The Help. Dir. Tate Taylor. Perf. Emma Stone. Dream Works Studio, 2011. DVD.