Tyler Perry's Why Did I Get Married?

NEW YORK (CNS) -- Raucous humor alternates with a serious examination of the challenges of married life in "Tyler Perry's Why Did I Get Married?" (Lionsgate). The film, based on a stage play of the same title, explores the relationships of four affluent African-American couples as they gather in the Rockies for their annual vacation and retreat.

Patricia (Janet Jackson) is a pop psychologist and best-selling author. Ironically, however, she resists efforts by her architect husband, Gavin (Malik Yoba), to come to grips with a recent family tragedy. Dianne (Sharon Leal), a successful lawyer, is too busy to devote any time to her increasingly exasperated husband, Terry (Tyler Perry). Meanwhile, Angela (Tasha Smith), a tough-talking salon owner, tyrannizes her former NFL player husband, Marcus (Michael J. White). The victim of relentless emotional abuse, overweight Sheila (Jill Scott) is joined, not only by her vituperative husband, Mike (Richard T. Jones), but by her supposed friend -- and his mistress -- Trina (Denise Boutte). Even as the couples renew old friendships, underlying conflicts endure. Once unpleasant secrets affecting all four couples are revealed, the gathering disperses with the spouses forced to reflect on their futures. The film -- as written, directed and produced by Tyler Perry -- features some very effective comedy. Smith is especially enjoyable in the role of a tippling, not-to-be-silenced coiffeur with attitude. The movie's dramatic elements at times resemble a fictionalized version of "Dr. Phil." Yet the film's resounding affirmation of enduring marital love is especially timely in this commitment-phobic era. The film contains some crass language, two uses of profanity, frank sexual discussions, including a character with venereal disease, one incident of domestic violence, marital discord and divorce. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 -- parents strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. - - - Mulderig is on the staff of the Office for Film & Broadcasting of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops. More reviews are available online at www.usccb.org/movies.

---

Copyright (c) 2007 Catholic News Service/U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops