Precious: Based On The Novel Push By Sapphire

Director Lee Daniels

Producers Lee Daniels, Sarah Siegel-Magness, Gary Magness

Production companies Lee Daniels Entertainment, Smokewood Entertainment Group

USdistribution Lionsgate

International sales Elephant Eye Films

US release date November 6

Worldwide gross $38.6m to December 13

Best picture chances

It’s almost a done deal that Daniels’ electrifying film will reach the final 10 best-picture nominees, if only because it is the one film this year which provokes an emotional reaction in almost everyone who sees it. Skillfully marketed throughout the year with the help of executive producers Oprah Winfrey and Tyler Perry, Precious has gradually transformed from an underdog in to one of the favourites. The film is nominated for a Golden Globe for best picture (drama).

What Screen said

“People like Precious rarely get their own movie and, ironically, that will help break its commercial prospects beyond the ghetto for ‘urban’ films. Like Sapphire’s 1996 book, it could become a major talking point among kids and adults, and even make people think twice before passing judgment on a Precious passing them in the street.”

Mike Goodridge