From the time 'Precious: Based on the Novel 'Push' by Sapphire' debuted at Sundance to its theatrical opening, talk among many was that Gabourey 'Gabby' Sidibe's acting was a tour-de-force.
The young actress earned a Golden Globe nomination, and she can now add Oscar nominee to her list of accomplishments. Should she win for best actress, she'd join Halle Berry as the only African American to hold such an honor.
For screenwriter Geoffrey Fletcher, Oscar night could also equal a big win.
The Waterford, CT native is the third African American to be nominated for an Academy Award for adapted screenplay, following Lonne Elder III's 1972 nomination for 'Sounder' and Charles Fuller's nod in 1984 for 'Soldier's Story.' John Singleton was nominated for original screenplay for 'Boyz N the Hood' in 1992.
"I am, as you can imagine, thrilled. It's still sinking in. Still sinking in. When I saw my name and heard my name, I didn't feel quite real. After they showed the first few names, I didn't think they said it at all." Fletcher told the Day of New London from his current home in New York.
He also told the paper that since the early morning announcement, he's gotten lots of e-mails and calls, but the call from his mother, Bettye, was particularly special. "She saw me working for so long, ever since I was very young, and I pulled out these toys and a camera and made these little movies with them. It's this lifelong dream, and a year ago, I was just happy to have a movie made, to be involved with a feature film. For this to happen, it still hasn't fully sunken in," he said.
Shortly after hearing her name called on TV, Sidibe appeared on ABC's 'Good Morning America' and reflected on the nomination. See clip below.
Comments: (6)
Add a comment
By: Tiffany on 2/03/2010 12:33PM
I am happy for Gabby and wish her much success in the future. I also hope she do continue to work on her weight issues. I don't want other sistas to look at her and think well if she can make it at her size then I can too. Not to be negative but too many of our little sistas are sooo big which is hurting them health wise and socially. But still Congratulations to Miss Gabby.
Reply to this Comment | Report This
By: imjustnoisy on 2/03/2010 1:17PM
I think Gabby deserves the Oscar for best actress because she made the character her own.The possibility of her getting it is slim to none as everyone thinks Sandra Bullock should get it.(not true)Gabby think of it this way,you were nominated and that goes a long way for your skills.Not many can say they were nominated for their first movie or that they had not acted before.Never forget to own your character and keep a good attitude.Good luck and may God bless.
Reply to this Comment | Report This
By: Cookie on 2/03/2010 4:55PM
Congrats to Gabby and I hope she shocks the world as she wins the most deserved oscar of the season. And when will people learn to judge a person by their talent and not their outward appearance which has nothing to do with her accomplishment. Kudos lovely Gabby!!!
Reply to this Comment | Report This
By: Debra on 2/04/2010 10:38PM
I wish this young lady the best on all her endeavors! However, I only saw clips of this movie and knew it was a Waste of Money. It's being rewarded for the degrading of Black People. Why is it that when ever Blacks play a degrading role - then they are rewarded? I.E Training Day (Denzel) Monster's Ball (Halle) Now Prescious.
Reply to this Comment | Report This
By: brandi on 2/08/2010 1:25AM
its not degrading at all. its a story of hope. what, you think whites aren't abused or are illiterate? get over yourself.
Report This
By: Luckygirl on 2/09/2010 6:05PM
You have to see the whole movie before passing judgement. Gabby's phonomenal acting portrayal of a girl's life, set in the late 80s. It should make you wonder has anything improved in the ensuing 20+ years. Unfortunately, Denzel and Halle had to play in the roles they did (and played them well; each have an excellent body of work) to get their Oscars, but I don't put Gabby's in the same category.
Reply to this Comment | Report This