Precious (2009) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
Discover our review of Precious (2009), the critically acclaimed drama directed by Lee Daniels. Find out where to watch online, including streaming, rental, and purchase options in the U.S.
Precious (2009) Review: A Powerful Tale of Resilience and Hope
Precious, directed by Lee Daniels and released in 2009, is a searing drama that offers a profound and emotional exploration of hardship, resilience, and self-discovery. Based on the novel Push by Sapphire, the film features a standout performance by Gabourey Sidibe and a gripping narrative that has garnered widespread acclaim. With its raw portrayal of adversity and triumph, Precious stands as a significant and impactful work in modern cinema.
Plot Overview
Precious follows the story of Claireece “Precious” Jones (Gabourey Sidibe), a young African-American woman living in Harlem in the 1980s. Precious is an illiterate, overweight teenager who faces immense challenges, including an abusive mother (Mo’Nique) and a series of personal traumas. Despite these overwhelming obstacles, Precious’s life takes a turn when she enrolls in an alternative school run by Ms. Rain (Paula Patton), a compassionate teacher who recognizes her potential.
The film delves into Precious’s struggles as she begins to confront her past and her own sense of self-worth. With the support of Ms. Rain and the encouragement of her new friends, Precious embarks on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. Her path to self-acceptance and hope is fraught with challenges, but her determination to create a better future for herself and her children shines through.
Cinematic Excellence
Lee Daniels’ direction in Precious is both raw and compelling, capturing the harsh realities of Precious’s life while also highlighting moments of hope and resilience. The film’s screenplay, adapted by Geoffrey Fletcher, is powerful and impactful, weaving together themes of abuse, poverty, and redemption with emotional depth.
Gabourey Sidibe’s performance as Precious is extraordinary and deeply affecting. Her portrayal of a young woman enduring unimaginable hardship with strength and vulnerability earned her critical acclaim and numerous award nominations. Sidibe’s ability to convey the complexity of Precious’s emotions and struggles makes her performance one of the film’s standout elements.
Mo’Nique delivers a chilling and memorable performance as Mary, Precious’s abusive mother. Her portrayal of a character driven by anger and manipulation adds a layer of intensity to the film. Mo’Nique’s performance was widely praised and earned her the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress.
Paula Patton’s role as Ms. Rain provides a contrasting force of support and compassion, offering Precious a glimmer of hope and a path to self-improvement. The film’s supporting cast, including Lenny Kravitz and Mariah Carey, contributes to the film’s emotional resonance and overall impact.
The film’s cinematography, by Andrew Dunn, captures the gritty reality of Harlem with a raw and unfiltered lens. The use of color and lighting enhances the film’s emotional tone, creating a visual representation of Precious’s internal and external struggles. The soundtrack, featuring a mix of poignant and powerful music, complements the film’s narrative and adds to its emotional depth.
The Legacy of Precious (2009)
Precious has been widely recognized for its powerful storytelling and remarkable performances. The film’s success at various film festivals and its multiple Academy Award nominations highlight its impact and significance. The movie’s exploration of difficult themes and its portrayal of a young woman’s journey to self-empowerment resonate strongly with audiences and critics alike.
The film’s legacy extends beyond its immediate success, contributing to conversations about social issues, including abuse, poverty, and education. Precious remains an important work for its honest depiction of these challenges and its celebration of the human spirit.
Where to Watch Precious (2009) Online
For those interested in watching Precious (2009) online, several streaming and rental options are available in the United States:
- Streaming Services:
- Hulu: Precious is available for streaming on Hulu, where subscribers can watch the film as part of their membership. Hulu offers high-definition streaming, providing a great viewing experience.
- Amazon Prime Video: The film may also be available on Amazon Prime Video, which frequently features a range of critically acclaimed movies.
- Rental/Purchase Options:
- iTunes: Apple users can rent or purchase Precious on iTunes. The platform provides the film in various formats, ensuring a seamless viewing experience on Apple devices.
- Google Play: For Android users, Precious is available on Google Play for rental or purchase. The platform supports viewing across multiple devices, making it a convenient option.
- Vudu: The film may also be available for rent or purchase on Vudu, which offers a broad selection of movies for streaming.
Conclusion
Precious (2009) is a powerful and emotionally resonant film that explores themes of adversity, resilience, and hope with sensitivity and depth. Gabourey Sidibe’s unforgettable performance and Lee Daniels’ direction create a compelling and impactful cinematic experience.
For those eager to watch Precious online, options are available on Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, iTunes, Google Play, and Vudu. Don’t miss the chance to experience this critically acclaimed film that continues to touch and inspire audiences through its profound storytelling and remarkable performances.
