Stark, unforgiving, brutally honest, and yet … precious. The film brings fifteen-year-old "Precious" to a turning point in her life of abuse. Raped by her father, verbally and physically mistreated by her mother, Precious teeters along her first unbalanced steps on the mercilessly tough road of self-empowerment.

This is a powerful film, beautifully realized on film. Every scene, every moment is gripping. Gabourey "Gabbie" Sidibe as Precious endears. The direction pulls audiences into her world. We're more than observers, we're moved by this ruthlessly intimate presentation. But strong screen presence is not limited to the main character, Mo'Nique as the story's self-centered, unstable, volatile antagonist (her mother), ignites on screen. She rocking-back-and-forth crazy nails the role. Further, classroom student banter often feels stiff in cinema, not so here. Each kid feels as real as their interaction.

Of course, as you may have heard, Mariah Carey lends her name to the cast. She's the social worker. She's also very good. Hard, un-glamorous, likeable.

The topics presented in this picture are hard ugly realities. It saddens my heart to know that folks are forced to endure such abuse. But, perhaps in bringing them to light, abusers might rein themselves, witnesses might step up, and victims might find some encouragement and inspiration.

This is a great film, see it.

-- Books by Author/Illustrator Ross Anthony --