PRECIOUS — NYFF 2009

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Lee Daniels unleashes an urban drama pressure-cooker steeped in verite realism.

"Precious: Based on the Novel 'Push' by Sapphire" follows 16-year-old Claireece "Precious Jones" (well played by newcomer Gabourey "Gabby" Sidibe).

Jones is a 300-pound high school student, pregnant with her second baby by her own father. Precious's cruel mother Mary (Mo'Nique) humiliates and physically attacks her daughter — when she isn't giving orders from her permanent place in front of the television.

Daytime reveries of red carpet fame and the adulation of her imaginary fans allows Precious to block out her stressful reality.

lighthearted vignettes also allow the audience a chance to breathe in the midst of an unbelievably devastating story of traumatic family abuse. Precious finds hope and support when she gets into an alternative school.

Paula Patton adds some much-needed optimism as Blu Rain, an altruistic teacher whose dedication to her students enables their intellectual growth.

Significant too is Mariah Carey's disarming performance as Ms. Weiss, a no-nonsense welfare counselor who listens to Mary's explanation of her treatment of her daughter.

"Precious" is an unforgettable drama whose intrinsic truth outweighs any exploitation or politics that might attend such material. If you're looking for a gritty socially-conscious movie, this is it.

Rated R. 109 mins.