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On one hand, it's important to understand the significance of the film. There is something that black women love about Tyler Perry, and we must acknowledge that fact. His films almost seem to be required viewing for the bulk of black women across America, and I can't tell you how many times I had a friend say to me that she was getting together with her girlfriends to see the new Tyler Perry movie.
The stories that Tyler tells need to be shared. Also, the fact that he is from the south certainly puts him at odds with more progressive filmmakers like Spike Lee in New York City. Tyler must also be given credit for allowing African American actors, producers and directors the opportunity to do work in an industry that has consistently abandoned them. This does not, however, mean that we can allow his films to be released without providing intelligent analysis and scrutiny.
In the video below, I speak with Jozen Cummings, a writer in Harlem with a popular blog on relationships and Rashida Maples, an attorney who also mentors young women in New York City. I wanted to get their take on this film because Jozen interviewed Felicia Rashad, who played a role in the film. Rashida's job of mentoring young girls made me wonder what young women can learn from a film like this when it comes to managing their relationships and personal choices.
The interview is below, enjoy!
Dr. Boyce Watkins is the founder of the Your Black World Coalition and a Scholarship in Action Resident of the Institute for Black Public Policy. To have Dr. Boyce commentary delivered to your email, please click here.