The movie “Precious” debuts in limited release Nov. 6 and here in Baltimore Nov. 20 {Thanks, AP}

Most filmmakers will tell you they make movies to elicit a response. Some intend to make you laugh, some to make you cry, others to make you think. If you see “Precious,” you’ll probably be moved to tears and possibly laugh at points, but you’re certain to walk away thinking about the injustices suffered by Claireece “Precious” Jones.

You’ll also walk away reminded of the resiliency of the human spirit.

“Precious,” an adaptation of the book “Push” by Sapphire, is the story of a 16-year-old overweight girl who suffers sexual, physical and emotional abuse. The title character, Precious, played by newcomer Gabourey “Gabbie” Sidibe has two children by her own father, while her mother abuses her and does nothing to stop the father from raping her. While Precious’ spirit could have understandably been broken by this and by the fact she’s illiterate, Precious ultimately sees education and her friendships at an alternative school as key to her turnaround.

Baltimorean Mo’Nique shows that she’s more than a comedienne with this acting role {Thanks, AP}

The film’s actors, including Baltimore-native Mo’Nique, make this story real. Mo’Nique plays Precious’ mother as a cruel woman that constantly demeans her daughter and forces her to wait on her hand and foot. Their relationship represents many of the relationships between the people and the institutions who are supposed to protect Precious, and they all let her down. The story of despair is one many can relate to because there are challenges that push people to the brink of ruin far too often.

Precious’ teacher (Paula Patton), her social worker (pop star Mariah Carey) and a hospital nurse (singer Lenny Kravitz) all seek to inspire and uplift Precious, who suffers from low self-esteem and depression. They help to renew our faith there are good people out there, who know when and how to help others.

In the end, Precious learns to depend on her self, has a renewed sense of self and comes to understand that she is, after all, precious.

“Precious” opens today and can be viewed at Landmark’s Harbor East Cinema or AMC’s White Marsh theater.

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