Very few films touch me so deeply, that I want to go out and change the world (or at least attempt to). Most films amuse or entertain, keeping their audience somewhat detached so that they walk away feeling content with their life and the world they live in. The Help, which currently holds the number 1 spot at the box office, does just the opposite. I didn’t walk away feeling warm and fuzzy, content to sit here in my Orange County home raising my children with my husband. I walked away discontent with the fact that racism is still a very real and present issue in our world today. I walked away deep in thought about what I could do to make a difference. I walked away determined to love and cherish my children and ensure that they grow up knowing that they are unique…special…important.
In order for The Help to resonate with audiences, it had to be executed perfectly. The film’s success is the result of amazing actors like Octavia Spencer (who is absolutely brilliant in the film). Octavia portrays Minny Jackson, a sassy 33 year old housemaid who is strong, loyal, and bold. Because of Minny’s courage, the stories of African-American women in the 60’s were brought to light.
On Friday, I had the rare opportunity to participate in a group roundtable with Octavia Spencer and a few other bloggers. We were each allowed just one question, so I thought about the film and what I’d ask her if we were to meet in person. The film, though at times extremely heart-wrenching, is about change…about courage…about standing up for what is right…for humanity. So I asked her what inspires her…what she’s passionate about…
Like so many of us, she’s passionate about having a strong family unit and being close to her own siblings. Beyond that, she’s passionate about civil rights…human rights….and the rights of children. As a mother, I loved what she said about how sacred children are…and how helpless they are without us.
What many may not realize is the fact that Minny’s character was based loosely on Octavia…from her personality to her physicalities. And while she embraced the opportunity to play this role, she felt like it was a challenge to be confined to the specific time period the film is set in. Octavia also wanted to ensure that she did the role justice for the people Minny’s character represents.
As someone who did not read the book, I was curious to know how authentic the storyline and execution were. Scenes were cut or adapted (as is common when translating a book to the big screen) but Octavia noted that she loved the way the director maintained the integrity of the overall story.
So what does she hope audiences will take away from the film?
“I hope people will take away the sense of humanity and the strength of the bond of these women…that these women from culturally different backgrounds were able to come together and basically change their community.”
The Help is in theaters now.
No compensation was received for this post. A huge thank you to Octavia Spencer and Walt Disney Studios for the opportunity.
Image Credit: DreamWorks
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She is just an amazing actress. She truly brought Minny to life. Love the last pic!
Kas
Hi Kas! I miss you!!!! And yes….her/Minny….amazing!
Hi,
I came by here today because I saw your post mentioned on Twitter. You are so fortunate to be able to have been part of the roundtable. I love learning about what the actors think about the film and more importantly what they feel about the history. Yesterday, after having read so many “reviews” I decided to write down my own thoughts.
The Help – Why Not Be Part Of The Living Proof?
I will come by again,
Judy
Hi Judy
I am so thankful that Octavia spent some time with us, talking about her role in the film….it was neat to hear her perspective. I too want to go over and check out your post…. : )
I came across this blog while surfin’ for anything and everything about the motion picture “The Help”. I just saw the movie (and now intend to read the book!), and like Caryn’s comments above, seldom does a movie resonate so strongly with me as this one did. It’s certainly not just a “chick flick” – and don’t get me wrong, I often enjoy movies that might fit into that genre. The principles showcased in this story can and should apply to everyone – male and female, notably courage, conviction, love, compassion, hope and vision. Octavia Spencer as well as all the other actors brilliantly conveyed this on film.
If you, like me, have been reading various blogs and comments on the writing of the book and making of the movie, be prepared to come across some negative reactions – I’m both amazed and saddened at some of them, but thankfully, they are few and are buried amongst all the kudos.
Well, before I write a book here (LOL), let me express my gratitude to Kathryn Stockett for persevering in getting her book published, to Tate Taylor for bringing it all together to make the movie, and to the many talented actors that brought this story to life on the screen. Let’s hope LOTS of people see it and that it has the impact on them that it did on me (and many others).
HI Brad
Thank you so much for your comment. You are right that not everyone will feel the same way about the film but am so fortunate to have seen the passion that went into the film and the desire to bring the book to life on the screen. I too hope that many people see the film…
As someone that has read the book, I was astounded at how well they did the screenplay. It is the first time I’ve ever watched a movie after reading the book and loved the movie. And I too walked away feeling like there was so much I should do.