The Help

Several months ago I saw what I consider to be a top contender for best picture of 2011. "The Help" is the story of a black maid during the 60's in Mississippi. The Civil Rights movement was well on it's way, but not nearly as far along as it could have, should have been. The intertwining of her life and the lives of the people she provides maid service for is astonishing to anyone who's never seen prejudice up close and personal. You have to ask yourself if you would have acted any differently being a part of the small-minded society during this time of social climbing G.R.I.T.S. (Girls Raised In The South). Top notch performances abound, most notably Viola Davis, Octavia Spencer, Emma Stone, Bryce Dallas Howard, Allison Janney, Sissy Spacek, Jessica Chastain, and Emma and Eleanor Henry (twins who portray Mae Mobley). It cuts to the heart of so many issues and I wholeheartedly recommend you see the film and read the book by Kathryn Sockett, especially if you're a child of the 80's or 90's and have never lived through this. Remember, you is kind, you is smart, and you is important. Rating: 4 stars and big slice of chocolate cream pie.