Movie review: Why Did I Get Married?
“Why Did I get Married?” is both the title of Tyler Perry’s newest film and the unifying question at the heart of the narrative. Perry’s fourth major motion picture, Why Did I Get Married? follows four married couples through a turbulent stretch of time in each of their relationships. Psychiatrist Patricia (Janet Jackson) and her husband Gavin (Malik Yoba) are barely recovering from the recent death of their child. Pediatrician Terry (Tyler Perry) and his overworked wife Diane (Sharon Leal) argue constantly about their family life and her hectic schedule. Sheila (Jill Scott) is trying everything possible to save her marriage to Mike (Richard T. Jones). Feisty alcoholic Angela (Tasha Smith) bickers with her subordinate husband Marcus (Michael Jai White) about everything from his job to his ex Keisha without taking a breath (or a pause from drinking).
These eight thirty-somethings are longstanding friends who meet yearly for a couples retreat and vacation. What is meant to be a relaxing time to kick back and enjoy the company of friends is turned on its head, however, when tempers flare out of control and long buried secrets are revealed to all involved. In the aftermath, it is up to each person to decide what he or she wants, both out of their marriages and out of their lives.
This is a wonderful film that speaks to anyone familiar with the mixed trials and joys of a long-term relationship. The acting is stellar on almost all parts; each character (with the possible exception of Mike) is presented as a multidimensional person struggling to find the right path to take in order to obtain happiness. Like all of Perry’s films, the writing and direction is superb. Audiences do not get the sense that they are watching a film. Instead, audiences are left with the feeling that they are getting a small glimpse of real relationships. Perry is able to craft stories that are both funny and heartfelt, both moving and enjoyable. The subjects he covers are universally relatable, showing his depth and skill as a storyteller.
Even if you haven’t been to the theater in ages, Why Did I Get Married? is well worth getting up off of your couch and turning off the TV. It works as both a great date movie and a great film to catch with your friends. Be prepared to be doubled over laughing one moment and dabbing at your eyes the next. No matter what you’re in the mood for, make sure you check this film out this weekend.