GC Movie Review - Madea Goes to Jail

Written by Rhonda Ridley

Rated: PG-13 for mature thematic material, drug content, some violence and sexual situations
Genre: Comedy
Theatrical Release: Feb 20, 2009
Starring: Tyler Perry, Derek Luke, Keshia Knight Pulliam, David Mann, Tamela Mann, Ronreaco Lee, Ion Overman, Vanessa Ferlito, Viola Davis, Sofia Vergara
Director: Tyler Perry
Screenwriter: Tyler Perry
Producer: Reuben Cannon
Composer: Aaron Zigman
Studio: Lions Gate Films

Synopsis: Tyler Perry dons Madea's floral dress--and prison garb--in this comedy that finds the wisecracking woman behind bars. Fans who saw Perry's last film, MEET THE BROWNS, won't be surprised that this is Madea's destination since she spent that film on the lam.

Well, America, it finally happened! Madea has been hauled off to jail. Her antics have quickly and intentionally gotten worse with each movie and the price must be paid. A high speed chase resembling the Queen Latifah scene in “Set it Off” (minus the shooting, of course) has landed Madea back in front of Judge Mablean Ephraim. Unfortunately the charges do not stick. Judge Ephraim, in an attempt to teach Mable “Madea” Simmons a lesson, sentences her to anger management with none other than, Dr. Phil. In true Madea form, she can’t help but give him a difficult time and she soon returns to her old ways.

As fate would have it, another misguided bout with anger lands Madea in front of Judge Greg Mathis and he simply refuses to let her go; he sentences her to 5-10 years in jail. The familiar character that is “Madea” becomes the perimeter of this new Tyler Perry dramedy. As usual, she is funny, irate, reactionary, ready to shoot folk and loving. Meanwhile, at the center you find a serious and dramatic story. Both are needed to balance the flow of the tale.

It is while in court that we meet high-spirited and ambitious Assistant District Attorney, Joshua Hardaway (Derek Luke) who’s just been tossed a case defending Candace Washington (Keisha Knight Pulliam) , a young prostitute and drug addict. A conflict of interest forces Joshua to pass the case on to his feisty and manipulative Fiancé, ADA Linda Holmes (Ion Overman) , after which, Candace is sentenced to 17 years for a minor charge.

Even in the big house, while restricted from the world, Madea becomes the mother to all who come in contact with her. She shows her tender side and lovingly takes Candy under her wing; protecting her from the prison bully, sharing her personal stories of forgiveness and healing with the other inmates while fighting for her freedom.

The Mann’s (David and Tamala) return as father and daughter - Mr. Brown and Cora. They tag-along and rally on behalf of Madea’s freedom. Mr. Brown dons new splashy colors while Cora continues to pray that everyone gets their acts together. She has the misfortune of parenting her parents in this tireless and honorable manner. We really want Cora to have a life of her own.

I must admit, it was difficult to picture the collaboration of Derek Luke and Keisha Knight Pulliam. Since “Antwone Fisher” , Derek Luke has proven himself in countless films. He’s charismatic, captivating and committed to his character. He never fails. However, Keisha just popped back up in Tyler Perry’s “House of Payne” (in which she’s great) since last appearing in the “Cosby Show”.

But I had no idea what to expect, my thoughts weren’t good. I wasn’t sure of their ability to carry one another. It was not only weird to fathom them together, but I couldn’t imagine little “Rudy Huxtable” as a prostitute; something was just so wrong with that picture. I’m so pleased to report that they pulled it off! Extremely well! They were a wonderful surprise!

Bridled in secrets, guilt and a torrid past, Tyler uses the story of Joshua, Candace and Linda to teach us about how we allow the shackles of unresolved issues and secrets from our past to hold us captive - sometimes paralyzing our entire lives. As well, we see how we sometimes seek pseudo-repentance in the future choices we make, as if they will make up for all the unhealed wounds.

Although laced with tons of humor, the seriousness of the lesson shines brightly - FORGIVENESS is necessary and without it, we imprison ourselves and others – sometimes for life.

“Madea Goes to Jail” , takes us on a journey very familiar to the other Perry smashes, but just like the last piece of pie on Thanksgiving– you want it just as desperately as it were the first piece.

“Madea Goes to Jail” is funny, enjoyable, serious and healing.