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Tyler Perry’s unwavering commitment to storytelling
Embracing the critics and the fans
Tyler Perry remains undeterred by the “highbrow” critics who often dismiss his films. During a recent appearance on the “Baby, This Is Keke Palmer” podcast, Perry passionately defended his work, emphasizing the profound impact his stories have on Black communities. “I know for a fact that what I’m doing is exactly what I’m supposed to be doing,” Perry asserted. He shared that for every critic, there are thousands of fans who reach out to him, expressing how his films have changed their lives. “That is what is important,” he added.
The latest drama: ‘Divorce in the Black’
Perry’s latest film, Divorce in the Black, starring Meagan Good and Cory Hardict, has faced harsh criticism, even earning a rare 0% on Rotten Tomatoes. However, the audience score tells a different story, standing at a respectable 75%. This disparity highlights the divide between critics and the general audience, particularly those who feel represented by Perry’s work.
According to Amazon’s official logline, the film follows “Ava, a young bank professional who is devastated when her husband Dallas abandons a marriage she is determined to fight for until fate intervenes, revealing Dallas’ wicked deeds that have trashed their marriage, and once upon a time sabotaged Ava’s destiny to be loved by her true soulmate.”
The voice of the disenfranchised
Perry’s films resonate deeply with a large portion of his fans, many of whom feel disenfranchised. He explained to Palmer that he has learned to ignore the criticisms over the years. “Who cannot get in the Volvo and go to therapy on the weekend,” he said, contrasting the lives of his critics with those of his fans. Perry’s stories often reflect the experiences of people from working-class backgrounds, whose lives and struggles are rarely depicted in mainstream media.
He passionately defended the importance of these stories, saying, “You’ve got this highbrow Negro who is all up in the air with his nose up looking at everything, then you got people like where I come from, and me, who are grinders, who really know what it’s like, whose mothers were caregivers for white kids, and were maids, housekeepers…beauticians. Don’t discount these people and say that their stories don’t matter. Who are you to be able to say which Black story is important or should be told? Get out of here with that bullshit.”
A personal reflection on Perry’s impact
As a cinema enthusiast, it’s fascinating to observe how Perry’s work bridges the gap between mainstream Hollywood and the lived experiences of many Black Americans. His films, while often criticized for their melodramatic elements, provide a platform for stories that might otherwise go untold. This commitment to representation is invaluable, especially in an industry that has historically marginalized Black voices.
Perry’s resilience in the face of criticism is a testament to his dedication to his craft and his audience. His films may not always align with the tastes of critics, but they resonate deeply with those who see their lives reflected on screen. This connection is a powerful reminder of the importance of diverse storytelling in cinema.
Exploring more of Perry’s work
For those interested in exploring more of Perry’s filmography, I recommend starting with A Fall from Grace and Madea’s Family Reunion. These films showcase his unique blend of drama, humor, and social commentary, providing a deeper understanding of his artistic vision.
Final thoughts
Tyler Perry’s unwavering commitment to telling stories that matter to his audience is both admirable and essential. In a world where many voices are still fighting to be heard, Perry’s films offer a beacon of representation and hope. Whether you are a fan of his work or a critic, there is no denying the impact he has had on the landscape of American cinema.
