Mo'Nique talks

Mo’Nique’s award-winning turn as the monstrous mom in the movie Precious may have surprised the comedian’s fans, but not her. “I dreamed about this moment as a little girl standing in front of the mirror with a towel wrapped around me and a brush as a microphone, making my acceptance speech,” says Mo’Nique, 42, who won a Golden Globe for her role. Bets are that an Oscar is next. We chatted with her recently:

During your childhood in Maryland, did you know any mothers who were like the abusive one you portrayed?

I knew that person. It’s happening every day.

Has your own mom seen the film?

I don’t think so. It’s hard to watch.

What was your mother like when you were growing up?

My mother was cool. There’s no handbook for parenthood.

Are your children old enough to see the movie? If so, what do they think of it?

My oldest [Shalon, 19] is very proud. But the babies [Michael, 6; twins David and Jonathan, 4] haven’t seen it.

Is your phone ringing off the hook with job offers?

Ain’t a damn soul called me.