Iffy for 14+
Same old Madea jokes served up in yet another morality tale.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that, like all of Tyler Perry's Madea films, this comedy alternates between comedy (the parts featuring the Madea character) and drama (a subplot featuring a prostitute). Violence is both comic (Madea resists arrest) and disturbing (a pimp abuses young prostitutes), and there are several sexual references -- to prostitution, prison romance, and more. Although the consumerism isn't too overt, there are many scenes of cigarette and marijuana smoke, as well as drinking. Language includes "hell," "damn," and the like.
- Families can talk about the movie's message of forgiveness and personal responsibility. Does that come through amid all of the broad humor?
- How is Madea represented? Does she have redeeming characteristics, oris she just a caricature? Do you think Madea is right that parentsshouldn't be blamed for their children's failures?
- Why do you think Tyler Perry is so popular? Have you seen his other movies?What do they have in common? Who are they targetedat, and why do they appeal to that audience? Do you like him better ashis character Madea or as a "regular" actor? Why?
The good stuff
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Messages: Although the movie's overall messages of forgiveness and taking responsibility for your own actions are positive, there's a lot of questionable behavior in the film.
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Role models: Madea is vengeful to the point of craziness, and characters lie, cheat, and betray one another.
What to watch for
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Violence: Some of the violence is cartoonish, like when Madea shoves police officers and resists arrest, or when she knocks out a burly woman in prison. But some of the other violence is disturbing, like when young prostitutes are physically abused by a pimp. Discussion of rape.
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Sex: Three of the main characters are current or former prostitutes, and several "women of the night" are shown on the street picking up tricks. In one scene, a prostitute is shown in bed (bare shoulders and legs) with a man in underwear sleeping on top of her. There are also discussions about life as a prostitute. Two couples kiss and embrace, while several characters flirt -- in the case of Joe and his bawdy elderly friends, pretty raunchily. A masculine woman prisoner comes on to a fellow prisoner.
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Language: Language includes "bastard," "damn," "pimp," "hell," "oh my God," "titty," and the like.
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Consumerism: Featured brands include Apple/Mac, Coca-Cola, Schweppes Ginger Ale, and Big K-Mart.
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Drinking, drugs and smoking: Joe smokes marijuana on a few occasions -- as a joint and also using a bong. At a party of mostly seniors, most attendees drink beer and other cocktails. Several characters smoke cigarettes, and there are many conversations about drug addiction and rehab.
Fan Reviews provided by
5
Another Instant Classic by The Apostle of God
Tyler Perry has done it again..I went to a private screening tonight...This really lives up to the hype. A must see movie...Madea is hilarious.
4
Madea goes to Jail by goodpeople27
Understand TP is who he is. It is not oscar type movies. TP movies are about laughter and sending messages of hope. Madea is typical Tyler Perry. I enjoyed the movie and will see it again. This movie is worth seeing if you have a sense of humor.
4
Tyler Perry's Madea Goes to Jail by hjw60453
I thought it was very funny in spots. Reminded me of the way some people acted when I was younger the I don't care what others think of what I do or say, I am old enough to do what I want if you don't like it well then get away from me. It is the way I hope to be when I get to be as old as Madea is. I would recommended it to friends and family and would see it again and even purchase dvd when it is out.
5
Unstoppable by shalone
Tyler Perry has out done himself in this movie. I loved everything about this film. The multi racial audience was full of people laughing out of their seats. The message was strong and clear. I encourage everyone to go and see this movie. Not only will you come out smiling because your spirit will be lifted. But you will also come out with a broader view of mankind. It will also teach you that you shouldn't judge a book by it's cover. We don't know what people go through in life that knocks them down so low. So we shouldn't judge. We should instead help one another. Everyone is reachable at some point and time in his/her life. It will bless you. Yes, yes, yes, indeed this is the best yet.
5
Madea Goes To Jail by tawana614
I enjoyed the movie so much that when I left my stomach was hurting from laughing so hard. This is a movie I would recommend people to go see.
5
TYLER PERRY MOVIE by wheata
THIS WAS AN EXCELLENT MOVIE. FOR ONCE I DID NOT HAVE TO COVER MY DAUGHTERS EARS OR EYES. GREAT FOR EVERYONE.
MR. PERRY THEM KEEP EM COMING!
5
Must See by dergans76
"Madea Goes to Jail" is hilarious! My favorite scene was the sentencing. By the way, if you've seen the play by this title, you should know that the movie and the play have absolutely nothing in common other than the fact that they are both funny and Madea goes to jail in both. This is a completely different plot.
5
Can't wait for the laughs.. by Dymondndarough
One thing that you can always expect is a great laugh, and movie that has a meaningful story line. If that is what some call a predictable movie, then so be it, but don't be a hater you already have an idea of what Tyler Perry is capable of putting out, and most people of quality... have never been disappointed. And that is one thing that i can predicat and has come to count on from Tyler Perry!! CAN'T WAIT TO SEE THE MOVIE, at the theaters.
4
Diary of a black woman much better. by Rene_movie mix
I feel it was allright simply becouse perry always get's his point across, not tomention he is a great actor.......
I simply very nuch like him.
5
Great Meaning!! Good Movie!! by shaton3030
The movie was really good and had great meaning to it. The previews didnt tell you alot about the movie so I was really shocked. It was funny and serious. But had GREAT Meanning, and I hope some people out there know that its NEVER to late to start over!! I think everyone should see it!!