Tyler Perry made his first appearance as a presenter at the Oscars this year confirming his acceptance into the circle of Hollywood heavyweights. On Friday, he hits another milestone with the release of his first film sequel that does not involve the matriarch "Madea," his most famous character to date.
"Why Did I Get Married Too?" reunites a cast of nine including Perry, Janet Jackson, Jill Scott, Sharon Leal, Malik Yoba, Richard T. Jones, Tasha Smith, Lamman Rucker and Michael Jai White. This time, the college friends (who somehow neatly ended up coupled off post-graduation), head to the Bahamas for their annual couples' getaway.
Fans of 2007's "Why Did I Get Married?" will recall the unique problems of each pair. And while the first film raises the issues, the sequel is the opportunity to offer up solutions. It quickly becomes clear that resolution won't come easy when one character's ex shows up with the intent of causing problems between her and her new husband. While still in their idyllic island setting, each couple starts to devolve into their own squabbles, both petty and serious.
It's a rocky ride through all the romantic twists and turns – one which some viewers at a recent cast and crew screening in Atlanta enjoyed and which others deemed only average – but love it or hate it, here is what moviegoers will likely be talking about.
Tasha Smith as Angela. Smith was hailed as the breakout star of "Why Did I Get Married?" and once again her comedic timing shines in the sequel. Along with co-star, Michael Jai White as Marcus (who Smith once dated in real life), the duo easily draws the most laughs as a bickering couple who somehow stay together despite Angela's suspicions that Marcus is a cheat.
The Scenery. The tropical island setting in "Why Did I Get Married Too?" beats the snowy mountain scenery of the first film by a landslide. Add to that Perry's increased creativity with the camera and you have enough breathtaking shots to make you wish you were there.
The Tiger Woods swing. Without giving away too much, suffice it to say that Janet Jackson's golf club wielding scene will immediately bring to mind another domestic situation. However, this was filmed long before Elin Woods took a swing at Tiger's head -- er -- car window.
The Cameos. As Perry fans have come to expect, the film wouldn't be complete without an appearance from African-American actors who paved the way in Hollywood. This time it is Cicely Tyson (spotted in other Perry films) and Louis Gossett, Jr. portraying an elderly couple who have seen it all and offer words of wisdom to the foolish young couples on the beach.
The Ending. It's just a fact. In Perry-land the bad times never last for long.
About the Author
Keep Reading
The Latest
Featured
