If ever there were a modern-day version of Alice Walker's "The Color Purple," the new movie “Precious” may be it.

Based on the novel “Push” by Sapphire, “Precious” is based in 1987 Harlem and tells the fictional story of Claireece "Precious" Jones, an overweight and unloved 16-year-old illiterate girl who is raped by her father and sexually and verbally abused by her mother. (It opens in Qcity theaters on Friday.)

If you haven't read the book -- and even if you have -- the movie may seem a bit brutal as it brings to life the hardship and the heartache that define the main character’s life.
 As soon as actress Gabourey Sidibe (Precious) opens her mouth, she owns the role, giving life to her character’s miserable existence.

This movie was difficult to watch at times, because it’s hard to imagine that a story like this could exist. Abuse is not something that’s easily owned or discussed in most African American families.

The author has said in interviews that “Precious” is not based on a single character but represents the lives of several girls she met while teaching.

Director Lee Daniels doesn't paint a pretty picture.

Actress Mo'Nique does an excellent job portraying Mary, the ignorant mother who does everything she can to belittle and make life hellish for her daughter.

Every time the mother appeared on screen, I felt repulsed by her presence. She represents everything a mother should not be.

Are there women who beat and curse their children at every turn because they, themselves, are miserable? Yes.

Are there mothers who sexually abuse their children? Yes.

The reality of this movie left me feeling dispirited as I watched Precious, who is pregnant with her second child by her father, struggle.

How do you save a child who has known only poverty and despair?

Schoolteacher Ms. Rain (Paula Patton) becomes the bright light in Precious' dark world. She teaches the child to read and to understand that she is worthy of being loved.

This film is no fairy tale. The ending won’t send you home feeling good. In fact, you may need a drink.

Still, “Precious” is a must-see. The acting is superb -- just be prepared to deal with the realness of what happens when families live in a cycle of poverty, betrayal, abuse, illiteracy and self-worthlessness.

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