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.