Movie Review: The Help

Every year there are one or two films that demand your attention.

The Help is one such film.

This is compelling viewing for anyone who expects a strong plot and a talented team of actors.

The Help challenges your morals as it explores life as a black maid in the Deep South of the United States in the 1960s.

Based on the best-selling book of the same name, we are introduced to three compelling characters - Eugenia "Skeeter" Phelan (Emma Stone), Aibileen Clark (Viola Davis), and Minny Jackson (Octavia Spencer).

Skeeter grew up in Jackson, Mississippi, but when she returns home after university she is disturbed by how her old friends treat their black maids, or the help.

Raised herself by a black maid, Skeeter has a real affection for and affinity with these warm-hearted women. But America has yet to embrace civil rights for blacks and the help are segregated in society and treated as second-class citizens.

As an emerging journalist, Skeeter has seen enough and wants to tell their story.

But she knows exposing the reality of their situation poses real dangers for the maids involved.

Understandably, there is a real reluctance to be part of Skeeter's book project.

That is until Aibileen decides the time has come to speak her mind and expose the small-minded, bigoted women of the Deep South. Minny soon joins the story and ultimately many more maids take the opportunity to speak out about their lives.

When the book comes out, Jackson is shaken to the core as the society madams realise they are the subject of the story.

Although The Help is based on a true story and delivers some uncomfortable realities, the movie also shows the spirit and humour of these brave women. The three lead actors, led by emerging star Stone, deliver sublime performances.

When you get a brilliant, thought-provoking story that is delivered so well, you know you have experienced something special.

The Help (M)

160 minutes

Stars: 5/5