Precious - Based on the novel Push by Sapphire

Director: Lee Daniels
Cast: Gabourey Sidibe, Mo’Nique, Paula Patton, Mariah Carey and Lenny Kravitz
Releasing in cinemas:
Rated: MA 15+

Tough love

Social disadvantage is seemingly a popular subject among filmmakers, even if it often isn’t popular with audiences. It’s a topic that Australian filmmakers have embraced, with grim tales of society’s downtrodden regularly appearing on our screens. In the different culture of the US, it’s a theme that appears to have less traction; but the Americans occasionally throw up an example or two. So it is that Precious, backed by strong word-of-mouth and some awards nominations, finds its way on to Australian screens.

To say Precious is tough going is something of an understatement. This is a powerful and damning indictment on the plight of people like the title character, played by Gabourey (Gaby) Sidibe. But while it was clearly important to director Lee Daniels to expose the problems faced by Precious and those like her, the film moves beyond mere pity or anger to explore some of the root causes of disadvantage and poverty.

It’s an examination that many social scientists won’t like because Daniels keeps things very focussed on the individuals involved, rather than seeking to lay blame on external forces. I guess you could say this is the antithesis of a Ken Loach film in a way. The other defining feature of the film is that Daniels actually introduces some entertainment into the mix, in the form of fantasy sequences that reveal Precious’s inner thoughts and hopes. These are a little jarring at first, but soon emerge as welcome relief from the crushing reality of Precious’s life.

Few will be unmoved by the film’s devastating climax, in which the ultimate source of Precious’s problems is laid bare. It’s a scene that will shock, confound and hopefully get audiences thinking. In that typically American way however, the film ends with a glimmer of hope; a small hint that maybe things can change. I couldn’t help but think that, had this been an Australian film, that element would have been missing, and that the hope would have been replaced by tragedy.

At its core, Precious is a two-hander between Sidibe’s titular character, and her mother Mary, played by one-time comedienne Mo’Nique. In an acting sense, Sidibe gets a tough gig in the title role. In her “real-life” persona, Precious is withdrawn, almost sullen; and it’s only in the fantasy sequences that Sidibe gets a chance to display her range. Although it’s a subdued performance at times, by the end of the film, Sidibe will almost certainly win you over. In contrast, Mo’Nique’s role is the dominant one. Her Mary is mouthy, scheming and self-absorbed; the kind of role actors relish. Mo’Nique certainly grabs the part with both hands in a performance that has already netted her a Golden Globe and might produce more.

Between the two leads, the smaller roles have a lot to compete with. One who certainly holds her own is Paula Patton as Ms Rain, a teacher who gives Precious a chance. The other talking point in the cast is the appearance of pop diva Mariah Carey as a social worker. I have to admit she’s barely recognisable, and certainly a long way from the sequins and perfect smiles of her musical persona. Another music legend, Lenny Kravitz, also has a small role.

You couldn’t call Precious a “fun movie”, but the cinema is about more than just fun. This is an arresting film, delivering a powerful message. The performances are excellent, the subject-matter (which you’ll note I’ve avoided describing in detail) is confronting and the resolution is emotionally wrenching. If you can stand all that, then Precious is certainly worth your time.

David Edwards