Precious Review - TIFF 2009

Lee Daniel, an academy award winning producer of Monster’s Ball brings his 5th movie to TIFF. Precious is an accomplishment in confronting common preconception and prejudices. The film deals with the conflicts of teenage life in Harlem. Like so many, overlooked as an apathetic teenager more interested in partying and boys than math. She is expelled from public school and enrolled in an alternative school program, the layers behind her 300lbs facade are pealed back to reveal the realities that hide behind our suppositions and prejudices.

This is Daniels second film as a director. Shadowboxer (2005) was his first feature; his credits as a producer include Oscar winner, Monsters Ball (2001) as well as The Woodsman (2004). It is with no surprise that Daniels navigates his emotional subject mater adeptly. This film, Daniels showcases his skill at delicately balancing crushing tragedy with moments of enlightened humour. Though heavy handed with the violence in parts; it is the balance and contrast between these moments of horror and the flashes of lighthearted, jesting that make the film such a successful work and the characters so empathetic. It is no wonder that major stars like Mariah Carey (Precious’social worker) and Lenny Kravitz (as a male nurse) have got behind this work. 

In her debut as Precious, Gabourey Sidibe delivers a jaw dropping performance. The realism is uncanny, and one truly forgets that you’re watching a fictional film. Her rendition of an introverted teen is spot on, as she plays perfectly in to the stereotype at first, then, gradually wins over the sympathies of her viewer. Also of note is Paula Patton’s performance as the teacher of the alternate school, Ms. Rain. 

A poignant and moving, with excellent performances, I would strongly recommend this film and it would be no surprise to hear Precious making noise at Oscar time.

Astrid Handling