Movies/Videos. For Church + Home.

The Help

Summary: The Help, a film based on the New York Times bestselling novel by Kathryn Stockett, is a story that takes us to the heart of the South, in Jackson, Miss., during the turbulent 1960s. We get a close look at the lives of several women, black and white, and the dynamics between white households and their black servants, who were looked upon as second-class citizens during these days of segregation.

Viewers are introduced to three key characters: Aibileen, a black woman who has cared for 27 white children in her career as a maid, nanny, cook and household servant; Minny, another servant, who is known as a wonderful cook but gets into trouble due to her smart mouth and temper; and Skeeter, a white, 22-year-old college grad who is not like the rest of her friends and family—she builds relationships with “the help” and treats them with respect.

Skeeter gets a job in publishing as the writer of a household advice column. However, as the volatile racial situation pushes to a breaking point and she sees how the help are treated as subhuman, Skeeter has to do something. She enlists the help of Aibileen, Minny and up to a dozen more servants to tell their stories of what it is like working for white families in the South. It is a dangerous scenario for all involved, but these ladies pull together to share their experiences, because they believe that if the world knew the truth, it could make a difference.

The story of The Help is both heartwarming and gut wrenching, and seeing it on screen has a powerful effect. No wonder it was nominated for three Academy Awards (best picture, best actress and best supporting actress), in addition to being nominated for five Golden Globe Awards, winning the Golden Globe for best supporting actress (Octavia Spencer). It is hard to believe that this was the reality for so many people at that time, but it is encouraging to see such determination and drive to make a difference played out.

Use Scenarios: Whenever a book is adapted into a film, there is a risk of losing the original message in that process. However, this movie stands on its own merit, with a wonderful cast that pulls out the personalities of each character. One caution: The movie does contain adult language. It is not suitable for children or young teens, but could be used as a resource for older teens or adults. When showing it to teens, there should be an opportunity to discuss what is portrayed and to help them process how our society operated during the years of segregation.

Discussion Topics:
In addition to the obvious conversations on U.S. history and racism, the following topics would facilitate valuable discussion times in a group setting.

• Taking a stand: speaking the truth, even when it isn’t popular or may have negative effects on you, and finding the courage to make your voice heard
• Living up to expectations: handling the pressures from society, family members, or your own self-imposed expectations of perfection
• Grieving and loss: finding healing from the loss of a child
• Fulfilling your destiny: finding the strength to follow your heart and do what God created you to do, even when it’s not popular, or doesn’t please your family or friends
• Comparing yourself to others: finding the freedom to be yourself and not trying to live up to someone else’s life or expectations
• Domestic violence: believing in yourself enough to realize you don’t have to live in fear, but can remove yourself from an abusive relationship and be free

 

Reviewed by: Leslie Arter, worship pastor at Family Worship Center in York, Pa.