Growing up in the 1960s in Mississippi having a maid was very common, and Elizabeth Leefolt had Aibileen Clark.  Aibileen was sweet and devoted to Mrs. Leefolt's daughter Mae Mobley.  Life in the 60s was complicated for people of color, it was different.  White and blacks could not shop or eat in the same stores, couldn't use the same water fountains or bathrooms or hospitals, and much more.  Aibileen's life as a maid changes when Skeeter Phelan enters it. The Help tells stories from both the side of the help and Sketeer who aims to give those who don't have a voice, one that rings out loud and proud.

Skeeter is a member of the Junior League and best friends with Elizabeth Leefolt and Junior League president Hilly Holbrook.  When Hilly comes up with a Health Sanitation Initiative that would provide separate bathrooms in homes for whites and blacks.  Since Skeeter is the Editor of the Junior League newsletter, Hilly expects Skeeter to make it practically front page news.  This sparks something inside of Skeeter which leads her to decide to write a book from the side of the help, what they're paid, how they view the people they work for, stories about cooking and the children they raise, etc. Skeeter decides to enlist the help of Aibileen and the idea alone frightens and shocks Aibileen.  Eventually Aibileen gives in and the two set off on a journey that leads them to cross racial boundaries and question the laws of civil rights. 

The Help is an adaptation of the book with the same name that is an incredible read.  Young and old can understand and relate to the storylines and learn a great deal about friendship and humanity.  Viola Davis is incredible as Aibileen, she truly embodies the character, especially with having read the book before watching the movie.  Octavia Spencer is funny and charismatic as the brazen and ballsy Minnie!  These two are destined for award nominations for these roles, because they bring such presence and depth to their characters.  Emma Stone is a joy to watch as Skeeter and she provides levity and charm as the bold Skeeter. 

DVD extras include two deleted scenes as well as a Mary J. Blige music video for her song "The Living Proof."  The Blu-ray/DVD combo pack includes the DVD extras previously mentioned, as well as a wonderful making-of segment and three more deleted scenes.  There is also a piece that's called "In Their Own Words: A Tribute to the Maids of Mississippi, which is a definite do not miss.  This powerful featurette focuses on real life maids that inspired the story. 

Hit the store with the ground running and get your copy ofThe Help starting on December 6th!