“The Help” is a drama film released in 2011, directed by Tate Taylor. The movie is based on the best-selling novel of the same name by Kathryn Stockett.
Set in the early 1960s during the Civil Rights Movement, the story follows aspiring writer Eugenia “Skeeter” Phelan (Emma Stone), who returns to her hometown of Jackson, Mississippi, after graduating from college. Skeeter aspires to become a journalist and decides to write a book from the perspective of African American maids, exposing the racial discrimination and injustices they face while working for white families.
Skeeter seeks the help of two African American maids, Aibileen Clark (Viola Davis) and Minny Jackson (Octavia Spencer), who share their stories of life as domestic workers in the deeply segregated and racist society.
As Skeeter delves deeper into the lives of the maids, she forms a close bond with them, leading to profound changes in her perspective on race and her understanding of the world around her.
“The Help” is a powerful and emotional drama that tackles issues of racism, inequality, and social justice. The film explores the complexities of racial dynamics during a turbulent time in American history, shining a light on the courage of those who dared to speak out and challenge the status quo.
The performances of the ensemble cast, particularly Viola Davis and Octavia Spencer, received critical acclaim and earned both actresses Academy Award nominations, with Spencer winning the Oscar for Best Supporting Actress.
The film’s touching portrayal of the relationships between Skeeter, Aibileen, and Minny, as well as its poignant exploration of the strength and resilience of African American women, has made it a touchstone for audiences seeking thought-provoking and emotionally impactful dramas.
“The Help” was well-received by critics and audiences alike, becoming a commercial success and leaving a lasting impact on discussions about race, civil rights, and the importance of raising one’s voice against injustice.
Additional Details
- Movie Studio: Touchstone Pictures
- Year Released: 2011
- Type of Movie: Live Action
- Box Office: $216.6 million
- Awards: Won British Academy Award; Won Golden Globe
- IMDB Link
Cast
- Emma Stone: Eugenia “Skeeter” Phelan
- Viola Davis: Aibileen Clark
- Octavia Spencer: Minny Jackson
- Bryce Dallas Howard: Hilly Walters Holbrook
- Jessica Chastain: Celia Rae Foote
- Allison Janney: Charlotte Phelan
- Ahna O’Reilly: Elizabeth Leefolt
- Sissy Spacek: Mrs. Walters
- Chris Lowell: Stuart Whitworth
- Mike Vogel: Johnny Foote
- Cicely Tyson: Constantine Bates
- Anna Camp: Jolene French
- Brian Kerwin: Robert Phelan
- Aunjanue Ellis: Yule May Davis
- Ted Welch: William Holbrook
- Wes Chatham: Carlton Phelan
- Shane McRae: Raleigh Leefolt
- Roslyn Ruff: Pascagoula
- Tarra Riggs: Gretchen
- LaChanze: Rachel Bates
- Mary Steenburgen: Elaine Stein
- Leslie Jordan: Mr. Blackly
- David Oyelowo: Preacher Green
- Dana Ivey: Grace Higginbotham
- Tiffany Brouwer: Rebecca
- Carol Lee: Pearly
- Carol Sutton: Cora
- Millicent Bolton: Callie
- Ashley Johnson: Mary Beth Caldwell
- Nelsan Ellis: Henry
- Emma and Eleanor Henry: Mae Mobley Leefolt
- Shane Pengelly: Himself
Crew
- Director: Tate Taylor
- Producers: Chris Columbus, Michael Branathan and Brunson Green
- Screenplay: Tate Taylor
Movie Trailer:
Related News:
- ABC, ‘The Help’ Top Nominations for the NAACP Image Awards, January 19, 2012
