one more tiff thought

Precious: Based on the Novel "Push" by Sapphire, Director: Lee Daniels, Principal Cast: Mo'Nique, Paula Patton, Mariah Carey, Sherri Shepherd, Gabourey Sidibe

So thanks to my friend Heather, I managed to see the 2009 Toronto International Film Festival People's Choice Winner "Precious: Based on the Novel "Push" by Sapphire." This time around since I'd heard bits and pieces, I couldn't help but take a glimpse of the trailer before tonight. It still did not completely prepare me for the intensity of this film.

Yet a more appropriate adjective is powerful. This movie most definitely let me thinking. At times difficult to watch, especially with its strong realism. The first paragraph of the tiff description sums it up perfectly...

"Raw, vibrant and resoundingly hopeful, Precious: Based on the Novel “Push” by Sapphire will stand in years to come as one of the strongest American films of 2009. Although the details of its plot may shock, it is at heart the story of a young woman determined to better herself despite overwhelming obstacles set against her."

Newcomer Gabourey Sidibe's performance absolutely awing. There is no doubt as to why Oprah backed this film as a co-executive producer to Tyler Perry.

I look forward to seeing the response to this film as it opens to a mainstream audience in the near future. Apparently Director Lee Daniels is already in Spain showcasing it at the San Sebastian Film Festival.

Daniels' technique of juxtaposing certain elements of Precious' story, such as her dreams and "rich inner world full of colourful fantasies of celebrity and adoration" made the way the story was told that much more impressive. I now most definitely want to read the book!

I am honoured to have had a chance to see this film tonight at tiff. Totally made me excited for tiff 2010.

More thoughts on films soon... Especially with one with Ecojot having a cameo in one that just opened yesterday!

xo,

ej