Top 50 movies of the decade, part one

45. “Precious: Based on the Novel ‘Push’ by Sapphire”

Release date: Nov. 6, 2009; Director: Lee Daniels; Cast: Gabourey Sidibe, Mo’Nique, Paula Patton

Claireece “Precious” Jones (Sidibe) might be the decade’s most unlikely movie heroine—a poor, overweight, illiterate, African-American teenager who is pregnant for the second time by her own father. Thanks to this careful, compassionate character study she’s also one of the most essential. We don’t know yet if her story will be a game-changer or an anomaly—the film’s just starting to make its mark in theaters—but Daniels’ tough little movie is sturdy enough to support a big following. From the unexpectedly powerful performances (Mo’Nique! Who knew?) to a startling emotional potency, “Precious” is one of those movies made from the heart and for the soul. —GB

Related items:

• Top 50 movies of the decade, complete list
• Top 50 movies of the decade, part two
• Top 50 movies of the decade, part three
• Top 50 movies of the decade, part four
• Top 50 movies of the decade, part five