Precious: Based On The Novel 'Push' by Sapphire

Another film with big hype, Oscare nomiantions, and a big reputation. This can make one rather tired of it before seeing it; don't let this stop you though, it's great.
We didn't find this quite as depressing as had been suggested. The content is, of course, beyond grim, and a few scenes are almost pornographic in their portrayal of a household and a life beyond the ken of the middle class. The tone, the dialectic, of the film is however one that lies on an upward path. Not only in the literal plot movements that, even though there are setbacks, one knows will not let despair take hold. This is Oprah-Winfrey Hollywood, after all.
It is though in that hopefulness and imagination in Precious herself that makes this film what it is. Her own dreams, and view on life, does make it aspirational. The scenes with her classmates are charming and gently humourous in their own way.
This film, we suspect (due to the lack of noticing at the time) is very well directed. Smooth, it rattles olng, scenes aren't extraneous. Without achieving visual flare the settings and shots have their own style and viewpoint that gives it an enduring image.
We should also mention that the very fact that this film ,and its subject matter, is so mainstream and has recieved such notice is a great step forward. The lack of films that portray women's lives as their lead, never mind one also obese and black, is often unnoticed. Hopefully this film will inspire more producers and directors to examine different experiences.
This is a watchable, occasionally moving (though, if we're honest, not always massively involving) and sharply directed film. It is more deserving than many of the Oscar hopefuls, and we particularly recommend Gaby Sidibe's performance in the lead role.