Around 1980’s end, "Precious" (Gabourey Sidibe) is far from feeling fortunate. She lives under the shadow of her volatile mother, "Mary" (Mo'Nique), a woman involved in minor crimes, and faces pregnancy by her own father. At sixteen years old, larger than life, and frequently targeted by bullies, Precious seems trapped with little prospect of things getting better within a neighborhood that doesn’t want to deal with any more difficulties. Occasionally, she finds temporary relief through fantasies of a more luxurious and fanciful existence, but these are fleeting distractions from the harsh reality of her surroundings. A possible turning point arrives with her latest pregnancy; the school principal views it as an opening to place her in a different setting where she might receive support, experience belonging, and develop friendships. It's Sidibe’s portrayal of this character that stands out most powerfully, as we witness her slowly gaining confidence, discovering resilience within herself, and perhaps even glimpsing a path forward. Mo'Nique also delivers noteworthy performances, depicting a mother who, as the story unfolds, shares surprising similarities with her daughter and seems equally adrift and overwhelmed. The film ultimately emphasizes the importance of self-respect, and despite the presence of racial prejudice, considerable discouragement, and despair, there’s still an undercurrent of hope – occasionally bolstered by external assistance. It serves as a critique of inflexible educational systems, demonstrating that teaching demands more than just a job; it requires insight, tolerance, and empathy. While the film boasts a notable ensemble cast, their contributions are secondary to the powerful performances from these two women.

Source on TMDB