‘Push’ finally comes to shove
By Jeffrey Jolson

Gabourey Sidibe does not look like Angelique or Lindsay but has talent to spare

HOLLYWOOD, CA (Hollywood Today) 2/2/09 — “Push” which ran the rails with both the Sundance Grand Jury Award and Audience Award, is still the little train that could, this time going out national with some serious marketing might behind it.
No less a pull for “Push” than Oprah, who can even make books and perhaps a President more appealing, is going to back the indie film with her Harpo Films (backwards for Oprah, though the Marx Bros. movie legend came first).
Not only that, but Lionsgate has bought North American releasing for the film, not exactly Uni or WB, but assuring decent promo.
The film will also have Tyler Perry’s support, another big name in both black and film worlds.
The main character Precious Jones, who is an abused, overweight and pregnant teen played by newcomer Gabourey Sidibe — no cute little Juno. She has a lot more to overcome.
Precious is barely literate, but in her simple story-telling, audiences found their own voice.
Push is based on the Novel by Sapphire, starring Carey, Paula Patton (wife of R&B singer Robin Thicke), and Mo’Nique (who took home actress nod), earned the top prize for U.S. dramas at Sundance, not a small task.
Nor is Precious’ life, but she never gives up, giving hope for all and why everyone cheered this small film in tough times – it is the new “Slumdog Millionaire.”