Personal ties bind filmmakers to movie 'Precious'

The film "Precious" stars newcomer Gabourey Sidebe, who plays an illiterate teenage girl from Harlem, New York, whose story of repeated sexual abuse at the hands of her father and mother will send viewers on an emotional journey. Based on the novel "Push," the story is one that captured readers and the film's creators more than a decade ago.

"Both Lee and I read the book," executive producer Lisa Cortes told TheGrio. "We weren't making films at that time, but both of us loved it and talked about it incessantly."

Cortes and director Lee Daniels convinced "Push" author Sapphire that only they could tell this story of abuse, survival and hope.

"I'm still pinching myself when I think of the places around the world where this film has been received so warmly," Cortes said.

"Sapphire was comfortable with Lee," screenplay writer Geoffrey Fletcher said. "Once he gained her trust and confidence, then it was off to the races."

Precious' story comes alive with an all-star cast, including Lenny Kravitz and Paula Patton. They are stars that shine because of their ability to lose themselves in dark, disturbing roles.

Grammy award-winning artist Mariah Carey is Precious' social worker.

"With Mariah," Fletcher said. "I really think that when you see this performance here, I think it's a clear window into the reason why she has the following she does. It is her humanity that we see here. She's very sensitive, very alert and very humble."

Most frightening is Mo'nique, as the mother.

"What's surprising about Mo'nique in 'Precious,' is that you don't see Mo'nique," Cortes said. "You don't for a moment see 'The Parkers.' You don't see the comedian that we know and love. You see Mary, a woman who is as much a victim as she is a perpetrator."

Oprah Winfrey and Tyler Perry partnered to executive produce the film with hopes of giving this tale the Hollywood success story it deserves.

Recounting his own history of abuse, Perry said 'Precious' is a story that needs to be heard.

"I realized how close the story was to my childhood and I had to get involved," executive producer Tyler Perry said. "Monique's character was my father. And I wanted people to understand, see and know that this is a movie that will change lives."

"So for every voiceless person that we all do not recognize, this film gives them a voice," Cortes said. "It sheds light on their humanity and it sheds light on the tremendous possibility that the precious boys and girls have."

Edited by Jessica Shim.