Tyler Perrys The Family That Preys (Lionsgate)
A Richly Rewarding Family Film
For too long Tyler Perry has been one of the best kept secrets of the entertainment industry. His movies consistently open up as either number one or number two and go on to earn a substantial profit. The subject matter of his films is generally simple and the delivery is totally entertaining from start to finish. A perfect example is his latest movie Tyler Perrys The Family That Preys.
The film focuses on two matriarchs, Alice Pratt (Alfrie Woodard) and Charlotte Cartwright (Kathy Bates). Alice owns and operates a diner while Charlotte owns and operates a business empire. Despite their difference in financial status the two women are best friends. Alice has two daughters, Andrea (Sanaa Lathan) and Pam (Taraji P Henson). Pam works with her mother at the diner while Andrea has a big job with the Cartwright Corporation.
Charlottes son William (Cole Hauser) works for his mother but he is constantly trying to grab control. His wife Jillian (KaDee Strickland) loves him but senses she is not enough for him. The same is true of Andreas husband Chris (Rockmond Dunbar). He knows that in his wifes eyes he will never be the equal of her success.
Tyler Perry wrote, directed and co-stars in the film as Pams husband. He is great in each aspect of his involvement but especially in the writing . The dialogue is sharp and dramatic when it needs to be, and glib and funny when that suits the story. He has created characters with whom the audience can identify and the story boils down to a simple good versus evil morality tale.
The acting, especially that of Woodard and Bates, is excellent. All of the supporting roles add into the mix to make a compelling family drama. There are no weak points and wonder of wonders no slow points. The film moves quickly from one aspect of the story to the next but never feels rushed. You get a chance to learn these characters and to understand them.
The film is rated PG-13 for profanity and mild violence.
Tyler Perry is the total filmmaker. He knows who the audiences are for his films and he makes sure they are all satisfied by the product he gives to them. Hopefully The Family That Preys will be the film that becomes his breakthrough production. It should cross over to all audiences as it is a film that touches us all.
Tyler Perrys The Family That Preys is the kind of movie people ask for every day. It has good values, strong performances, and a strong script. It is the kind of movie that should be supported at the box office. So get up, get out and go see it.
I scored Tyler Perrys The Family That Preys a prayerful 7 out of 10.
