The film industry is brimming with talent, and multi-talented individuals are now a staple. However, few have managed to produce, direct, and release their work as consistently as Tyler Perry. Even as he broadens his creative horizons, he remains keenly aware of his strengths. So, when I found out that his iconic character was getting a new movie, “Madea’s: Destination Wedding,” I was a bit taken aback, yet somehow not entirely surprised.
Laid To Rest
A few years back, Tyler Perry surprised his fans by announcing the retirement of his iconic character Madea, a role that had been instrumental in his rise to fame. In 2019, the Southern Thing publication was among the many that reported Perry’s decision to retire Madea. Perry was quoted saying,
“I just don’t want to be her age (still) playing her.”
It was furthermore mentioned that Madea’s final appearance would be in 2019’s Tyler Perry’s “A Madea Family Funeral.”
Resurrection
But that wasn’t the end. Despite his retirement statements, “Madea’s Homecoming” was released. Perry explained that he brought her back because there was a need for more of what she brought to the world. As he told People,
“I was looking at the state of the world and how polarized it is… nobody’s laughing. Nobody’s getting the chance to belly-laugh anymore. And I’m like, What tool do I have in my arsenal that can bring that kind of laughter?’”
Whether or not that was a sufficient reason is up for debate, but his point holds some truth. For better or worse, she did manage to revive the familiar humor that his fans had come to adore. And here we are with another feature.
Madea’s Destination Wedding: Destination Laughter
“Madea’s Destination Wedding,” is precisely what you’d expect—an over-the-top comedic whirlwind. The direct, no-nonsense portrayal of Madea is wonderfully balanced by the exaggerated innocence, vibrant exuberance, and satirically pious nature of Brown. The film delivers a heartwarming moral message through the lens of a wise, life-experienced auntie who has plenty to share.
This story focuses on Madea’s nephew, the son of her blunt, unfiltered brother, Joe (Tyler Perry). Surprised to learn his daughter is engaged, Madea’s nephew, Brian (Tyler Perry), isn’t thrilled with how he found out or with his daughter’s choice of fiancé. Determined to protect her, he seeks out any dirt to prevent potential heartbreak. However, plans don’t unfold as anticipated, and the “Destination Wedding” proceeds. As a proud father unwilling to appear inadequate compared to his ex-wife, he steps up for his traditional role as father of the bride. This sets the stage for quite the adventure.
Laughter is the Best Medicine
It’s a delightful hour and 42-minute feature. It’s not meant to be taken too seriously but offers a lighthearted experience with a sprinkle of morality. Considering Perry’s intention for Madea’s return, he nailed it. It’s a serving of entertaining chicken soup during these chaotic, stressful, and overwhelming times. A good laugh is just what the doctor prescribed, and that’s something any movie lover can appreciate. If you haven’t seen “Madea’s Destination Wedding,” it’s currently streaming on Netflix.
Uncut Diamonds 