The Help (2011), directed by Tate Taylor, is a powerful period drama based on the bestselling novel by Kathryn Stockett. Set in the racially turbulent American South of the 1960s, the film follows the lives of Black maids working in white households and the young white journalist who dares to tell their stories. With a strong ensemble cast, emotionally charged storytelling, and memorable performances, The Help is both a poignant history lesson and a character-driven drama.
Detailed Summary
The Setting: Jackson, Mississippi, 1960s
The film opens in Jackson, Mississippi, during the height of the Civil Rights Movement. Skeeter Phelan (Emma Stone), a recent college graduate with aspirations of becoming a writer, returns to her hometown and notices how little has changed. The town remains deeply segregated, and Black maids like Aibileen Clark (Viola Davis) and Minny Jackson (Octavia Spencer) continue to serve white families under demeaning and often abusive conditions.
Skeeter’s Idea
While working for the local newspaper’s housekeeping column, Skeeter becomes increasingly uncomfortable with the racist attitudes of her peers. Her social circle, led by the venomous Hilly Holbrook (Bryce Dallas Howard), pushes a bill requiring separate bathrooms for Black maids. Disgusted by this, Skeeter is inspired to write a book from the perspective of the maids—to finally give them a voice.
Aibileen’s Story
Initially hesitant due to the danger involved, Aibileen agrees to share her story after several tragic events highlight the urgency of speaking out. She describes her experiences raising white children who grow up to adopt their parents’ racist views, and the heartache of being seen as disposable despite the love she gives.
Minny’s Fire and Fury
Minny, more outspoken than Aibileen, eventually joins in. After being fired by Hilly for using the indoor bathroom during a storm, Minny finds work with the awkward but kind Celia Foote (Jessica Chastain), who is ostracized by Jackson society. Minny’s storyline adds both humor and depth, especially as we learn more about her abusive husband and the friendship that forms between her and Celia.
Other Voices Join
As more maids come forward, Skeeter compiles a tapestry of stories—some painful, some hilarious, and all revealing the ugly truths of systemic racism and hypocrisy. The risk for everyone involved grows greater, especially after the brutal murder of Medgar Evers shakes the community.
Hilly vs. Everyone
Hilly remains the villain throughout, representing the deeply embedded racism and power structures of the time. She attempts to sabotage Skeeter and punish any maid who defies her. One of the most memorable acts of rebellion comes from Minny, who serves Hilly a “special” pie (yes, that pie) as revenge—a secret that becomes part of the book’s juiciest chapter.
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Movie Ending
The book, titled The Help, is published anonymously, but the entire town of Jackson begins to realize it’s about them. Though the names are changed, the stories are unmistakable. The book becomes a sensation, even featured on national television.
Skeeter is offered a job with a New York publishing house. She decides to accept but is conflicted about leaving the women who trusted her. Aibileen, however, encourages her to go—telling her that she’s meant for greater things. Aibileen herself is fired by Hilly (who falsely accuses her of theft in retaliation), but instead of being broken, Aibileen walks away with dignity and resolve, finally free from the oppression she’s endured for decades.
Minny, now with a more stable home and hopeful future, continues to work for Celia, who genuinely respects and appreciates her.
The final scenes are emotional and symbolic: Aibileen walks alone down the street, her voice narrating her newfound sense of independence. Though she’s lost her job, she has found her voice—and that’s the beginning of a new chapter in her life.
Are There Post-Credits Scenes?
No, The Help does not feature a post-credits scene. The story concludes definitively with Aibileen’s walk and reflective narration. The tone and pacing are final—there is no hint at sequels or extra content after the credits roll.
Type of Movie
The Help is a historical drama with elements of social commentary. It blends emotional depth with moments of warmth and humor, shining a light on racism, gender roles, and friendship during a critical time in American history.
Cast
- Viola Davis as Aibileen Clark
- Emma Stone as Eugenia “Skeeter” Phelan
- Octavia Spencer as Minny Jackson
- Bryce Dallas Howard as Hilly Holbrook
- Jessica Chastain as Celia Foote
- Allison Janney as Charlotte Phelan
- Sissy Spacek as Missus Walters
Film Music and Composer
The score was composed by Thomas Newman, known for his emotive and atmospheric work. The music in The Help supports the film’s emotional journey—subtle, haunting, and hopeful. The soundtrack also features era-appropriate songs that ground the story in the 1960s.
Filming Locations
The Help was primarily filmed in Greenwood, Mississippi, chosen for its well-preserved 1960s architecture and Southern ambiance. The authenticity of the town enhances the film’s realism and helps immerse the viewer in the segregated South. Other scenes were shot in Clarksdale and Jackson, Mississippi.
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Awards and Nominations
The Help was widely acclaimed and earned numerous accolades:
- Academy Awards:
- Won: Best Supporting Actress (Octavia Spencer)
- Nominated: Best Picture, Best Actress (Viola Davis), Best Supporting Actress (Jessica Chastain), Best Adapted Screenplay
- Golden Globe Awards:
- Won: Best Supporting Actress (Octavia Spencer)
- Nominated: Best Actress (Viola Davis), Best Picture – Drama
- BAFTA Awards:
- Nominations for Best Actress, Supporting Actress, and Adapted Screenplay
Behind the Scenes Insights
- Viola Davis initially turned down the role of Aibileen multiple times, fearing it would reinforce stereotypes—but eventually accepted due to the film’s message.
- Octavia Spencer was friends with Kathryn Stockett, who based the character of Minny on her.
- Bryce Dallas Howard struggled emotionally with playing such a cruel character, stating it was one of the hardest roles of her career.
- The cast lived together during filming, creating a close-knit dynamic that translated on screen.
- The infamous “pie scene” was one of the most discussed moments among the cast and crew—filmed with great care and a touch of nervous laughter.
Inspirations and References
The film is based directly on the novel “The Help” by Kathryn Stockett, which itself was inspired by the author’s relationship with her family maid, Demetrie. Stockett wanted to explore what it meant to be a Black domestic worker in a white household during the 1960s—a story rarely told from the maids’ perspective.
Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes
While no alternate endings have been officially released, several deleted scenes are included in the Blu-ray version. These mostly involve character development moments, such as extended conversations between Skeeter and her mother, and more screen time for Celia and Minny’s evolving friendship.
Book Adaptations and Differences
- The movie streamlines several subplots from the book to keep the narrative tight.
- Skeeter’s love interest, Stuart, has a more developed story in the novel.
- Aibileen’s internal monologue and reflections are richer in the book, giving deeper insight into her emotions.
- The book includes more direct commentary on Civil Rights events and features more nuanced political context.
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Memorable Scenes and Quotes
Key Scenes
- Minny teaching Celia how to cook in the Foote kitchen.
- Aibileen’s tearful goodbye to Mae Mobley: “You is kind. You is smart. You is important.”
- The book’s release and the town’s quiet realization of who it’s really about.
- The confrontation between Hilly and Skeeter, where Hilly threatens to ruin lives.
Iconic Quotes
- Aibileen: “You is kind. You is smart. You is important.”
- Minny: “Fried chicken just tend to make you feel better about life.”
- Skeeter: “I’m going to be a writer. A serious one.”
Easter Eggs and Hidden Details
- The name “Demetrie” (Kathryn Stockett’s real-life maid) is subtly referenced in the script.
- Several actual Civil Rights events are mentioned to anchor the story historically, such as Medgar Evers’ assassination.
- The typewriter Skeeter uses is a period-authentic model commonly used by aspiring writers in the 60s.
Trivia
- Viola Davis and Octavia Spencer would go on to star together again in Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom (2020).
- Kathryn Stockett’s book was rejected by over 60 literary agents before being published.
- The film grossed over $200 million worldwide on a $25 million budget.
Why Watch?
The Help is essential viewing for anyone interested in American history, social justice, or character-driven storytelling. It tackles hard truths about race, privilege, and courage without sacrificing heart or humor. The performances—especially from Viola Davis and Octavia Spencer—are unforgettable.
Director’s Other Movies
- Get on Up (2014)
- Ma (2019)
- Breaking News in Yuba County (2021)