Based on a novel by Sue Monk Kidd, The Secret Life of Bees is a powerful story of love, hate, and reconciliation. Set in the eastern state of South Carolina during the initiation of the Civil Rights Act, this film depicts the life of a young white girl named Lily, who believes in bad karma, struggles to discover her own identity, and deals with the ugliness of racism in America.

Upon first watching this film, I honestly expected another one of those Tyler Perry type flicks. I’m not trying to sound prejudiced at all, but when I think of a predominantly female African American cast, Perry’s films always seem to come to mind first. However, by the end of this feature, I was pleasantly surprised with a excellent film which focused on a good script and even better dialogue.

What really made The Secret Life of Bees special for me was its casting. I can’t recall another film were I cared so much for each and everyone of its characters. Every member of its cast fit their roles perfectly. The conviction, fortitude, and demeanor they put into their characters were apparent throughout and it was definitely their performances which propelled The Secret Life of Bees to being one of the best films of 2008.

The two actresses which definitely stood out for me were Dakota Fanning and Queen Latifah. Its amazing to see how much Fanning has developed over the years as a young actress. From her humble beginnings as Lucy Diamond Dawson in the Oscar nominated film I am Sam, to her performance in The Secret Life of Bees, she has only grown and gotten better. I am absolutely looking forward to what she will bring in the future. Then there is Golden Globe winner Queen Latifah. What an amazing person she is indeed. Does anyone else remember how rugged and “gangsta” she looked back in the 1980′s? I can still remember her beatboxing for the group “Lady Fresh”. In her role as successful business woman August Boatwright, I thought Latifah had truly come full circle as an actress. Her intense film presence and charisma is felt the instant she appears on screen and continues to resonate throughout, up until the ending credits.

The Secret Life of Bees is a great film for the entire family. Its charming, heartwarming, and most importantly a step away from the regular Hollywood fare. I would highly recommend this film and would definitely encourage anyone who hasn’t seen it yet to pick up a copy.