Superb performances dominate adaptation of the popular novel ‘The Help’
‘The Help’
Let’s put aside the controversy about yet another look at racism in the American South featuring a white character who facilitates the ability of the black characters to take a step toward change.
It is there, hovering above the action, but at the heart of the adaptation of Kathryn Stockett’s novel The Help are the thoughts and actions of the black women it honors. These women, housekeepers and the primary caregivers for the children of their employers, have to remain stoic in the face of the casual — and not so casual — racism that defines their working lives surrounded by people who for the most part think of them as lesser human beings. Yet they raise those children with a sense of pride and accomplishment, planting the seeds of change in the next generation.
Of course, for every child who understood and appreciated the devotion of the black women that raised them, there were the ignorant, thoughtless ones who perpetuated the racism of “separate but equal” without giving it a second thought.
Representing the thoughtful side of the equation in Jackson, Miss., in the 1960s is Skeeter (Emma Stone), a recent graduate of Ole Miss who wants to be a writer and gets a job at the local paper while trying to interest a national publication in her talent.
On the other side is Hilly (Bryce Dallas Howard), a Southern belle with a rancid soul who rules her social circle. Hilly is leading a campaign to make it a law that black maids must have a bathroom built outside the homes where they work.
Through a series of events and a budding friendship with maid Aibileen Clark (Viola Davis), Skeeter comes up with the idea of writing an article about maids from their point of view and using their stories.
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1. Rogena said... on Aug 18, 2011 at 08:34AM
“I read this with some reservation, as I didn't want any "spoilers" because I'm reading the book right now. I look forward to seeing the movie. Thanks, Lori, for the review!”