A few weeks ago, I attended a special screening of Dreamworks Pictures’ The Help.  I went to the screening without reading the book and having very little knowledge of the story and characters.  I left the movie, 2 1/2 hours later, madly in love with the characters, story and couldn’t wait to get home and read the book that had been sitting on my dresser for a month!

Without giving away too much, I’ll tell you that I laughed and I cried throughout the entire movie.  It was emotionally draining for me, so much so, that I had to come home and let it all set in.  Don’t get me wrong, this movie has many funny parts to it, but the overall story – it’s courageous, heartwarming and empowering. Based on the best-selling novel written but Kathryn Stockett, The Help, is a timeless movie and I can’t wait to see it again.

Actresses Octavia Spencer (Minny) and Viola Davis (Aibileen) are fantastic in their roles as maids in 1960s in Jackson, Mississippi.  I think their roles in this movie are worthy of many award nominations.  Emma Stone (Skeeter) is a strong, young woman determined to break the barriers and live her own life, all while accomplishing success.  These women are portrayed as great role models and I felt a connection with each of them in their own way. Also, a little known fact, Bryce Dallas Howard (Hilly) is actually Ron Howard’s daughter (aka Opie from Andy Griffith Show) in real life – she’s a fantastic actress.   I was also surprised to see Allison Janney, Sissy Spacek and Cicely Tison with roles in this movie – a truly remarkable cast!

Rated PG-13, this movie doesn’t shy away from the truths of life in the 1960’s in the South.  In theaters today, this movie should be required viewing for everyone.  It’s inspiring, honest and life changing.  And while, I’m still making my way through the book (it is 500+ pages, you know!), I’m so happy to see the similarities between the book and movie.

If you had doubts about wanting to see this movie, I urge you to see it. …and bring your tissues.  You will not be disappointed.

Do you plan to see the movie?  Have you read the book?!  What did you think about it?

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**I received complimentary admission to an advanced screening of this movie.  The thoughts and opinions here are 100% my own and not influenced by others. **