The Help, based on the New York Times bestselling novel of the same name by Kathryn Stockett makes its big screen debut this week. Even if you did not read the book (which you should) I recommend that you run, not walk to see this film. The subject of this film is not far removed from our Country’s collective conscience. And depending on your age; you may find a very real and personal connection to this film.
The Help tells the story of Black maids and the White women they work for during the turblant 1960’s in Jackson Mississippi. The movie centers on Aibileen, played by Viola Davis. Aibileen has all but given up on life due to a personal tragedy and only finds joy in the love she has for the white babies she cares for. Aibileen and her best friend Minnie played by the unforgettable Octavia Spencer take care of two white families in Jackson, cook for them, clean, care for the children but are not given basic respect and dignity in return.
When Skeeter (Emma Stone) returns from Ole Miss she is ready to take on the world and finds herself unsettled by the reality of her old home. As Skeeter develops an unlikely (and illegal) friendship with Aibileen, she convinces Aibileen to tell her side of the story. Aibileen is resistant at first but once she makes the decision to share her stories she finds passion and purpose. Aibileen finds herself as an unlikely heroine within her community and soon maids across Jackson find the courage to share their stories also.
The Help follows the book well and gives humanity to the characters. When I read the book, I was not crazy about the character Celia Foote but Jessica Chastain plays her so well in the movie, she was one of my favorite characters in the movie. Celia relates to the struggle of the maids, so she is seen as unrefined, unworthy and is rejected by the white women in her community. Celia and Minnie develop a unique bond and Minnie learns as much from Celia as Celia learns from her.
Top 5 things you should know about The Help Movie
1. First time director Tate Taylor and author Kathryn Stockettt grew up together in Jackson (as well as Nate Berkus who is also involved in the movie)
2. Director Tate Taylor included the maid who raised him in the film
3. The film was shot entirely on location in Greenwood Mississippi
4. Stories of real maids as well as the maids from the book are featured in the movie
5. This is not a chick flick! Men will enjoy the movie as much as women so make it a date night
The Help is poignant and touching. In the screening I attended, you heard the audience laugh out loud, clap and cry. It is one of those movies you feel ends too soon. The personal connection you will feel with the characters will leave you wanting to know more about how their lives turn out. I for one am hoping for a sequal!
