The 25+ Best Movies Directed By Tyler Perry

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Updated May 31, 2024 39.0K views 27 items
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Over 200 movie fans have come together to vote on this list of movies directed by Tyler Perry. Known for his unique blend of humor, drama, and gospel music, Perry has become one of the most prolific filmmakers in recent years. His films often tackle issues facing the Black community in a way that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.

The movies on this list range from comedies like Madea's Family Reunion to more serious dramas like For Colored Girls. Each film features an ensemble cast of talented actors including Taraji P. Henson, Viola Davis, and Loretta Devine.

One thing that sets Tyler Perry's films apart from others is his use of strong female characters. His leading ladies are often complex and multifaceted, defying traditional gender roles and stereotypes.

But what makes these movies truly stand out is how they resonate with audiences across all demographics. Whether you're black or white, young or old, there's something in these films that speaks to the human experience.

So without further ado, here are the best (and worst) movies directed by Tyler Perry according to our voters. Be sure to vote up your favorites.

Latest additions: Mea Culpa
Over 200 Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The 25+ Best Movies Directed By Tyler Perry
  • Diary of a Mad Black Woman
    1

    Diary of a Mad Black Woman

    Kimberly Elise, Steve Harris, Shemar Moore
    63 votes

    For Fans Of: Comedy, Drama, Romance
    Why Should I Watch Diary of a Mad Black Woman: A transformative journey of self-discovery awaits in this 2005 dramedy, which launched the Madea franchise. Through powerful performances from Kimberly Elise and Shemar Moore, the film examines themes such as heartbreak and resilience while introducing Tyler Perry's larger-than-life character to audiences worldwide.

    After 18 years of marriage to lawyer Charles (Steve Harris), Helen (Kimberly Elise) is shocked when he announces he's ending their marriage and shacking up with Brenda (Lisa Marcos). Helen retreats to the house of her grandmother Madea (Tyler Perry), who helps her destroy much of Charles' property, earning her house arrest. While Charles prepares for the trial of a corrupt client, Helen is courted by Orlando (Shemar Moore), an affectionate moving man with strong Christian values.
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  • A Madea Family Funeral
    2

    A Madea Family Funeral

    Tyler Perry, Cassi Davis, Patrice Lovely
    43 votes

    For Fans Of: Comedy, Drama, Family
    Why Should I Watch A Madea Family Funeral: The spirited character of Madea returns for a hilarious and poignant farewell in this 2019 film, which showcases Tyler Perry's talent for crafting relatable stories with both humor and heart. As the family gathers to celebrate the life of one member, secrets are uncovered, and relationships tested – all while Madea keeps things lively with her signature wit.

    A joyous reunion in small-town Georgia turns into an unexpected nightmare when Madea, Joe, Aunt Bam and other family members gather for an anniversary party that turns out to be a sham. Instead of fun and relaxation, Madea and the gang soon find themselves attending an elaborate funeral that doesn't quite go according to plan.
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  • Daddy's Little Girls
    3

    Daddy's Little Girls

    Gabrielle Union, Idris Elba, Louis Gossett
    53 votes

    For Fans Of: Drama, Romance, Family
    Why Should I Watch Daddy's Little Girls: This heartfelt drama follows a single father fighting for custody of his daughters while struggling to overcome adversity in his own life. Directed by Tyler Perry, this 2007 film features standout performances from Gabrielle Union and Idris Elba, offering an unforgettable exploration of love, family, and determination.

    Monty (Idris Elba), a mechanic, struggles to make ends meet and raise his three young daughters alone. When his drug-dealing ex-wife wins custody of the girls in court, he enlists the help of Julia (Gabrielle Union), a successful attorney, to get the girls back. Romance unexpectedly blooms between the pair, but the couple must come to terms with their very different lives and find a way to keep Monty's family together.
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  • Why Did I Get Married?
    4

    Why Did I Get Married?

    Tyler Perry, Janet Jackson, Jill Scott
    48 votes

    For Fans Of: Comedy, Drama, Romance
    Why Should I Watch Why Did I Get Married?: In this 2007 ensemble drama, four couples gather for a week-long retreat only to find their relationships tested through soul-searching reflections and confrontations. With an all-star cast including Janet Jackson and Jill Scott, Tyler Perry explores themes of love, trust, and communication in an emotionally resonant manner.

    Eight married friends take their annual reunion vacation in the Colorado mountains. Revelations of infidelity involving one pair shatter the amicable mood, forcing the remaining friends to take a hard look at the strength of their own marriages. The couples grapple with issues of commitment, love, betrayal and forgiveness as they try to move on with their lives.
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  • Madea Goes to Jail
    5

    Madea Goes to Jail

    Tyler Perry, Derek Luke, Keshia Knight Pulliam
    56 votes

    For Fans Of: Comedy, Drama, Crime
    Why Should I Watch Madea Goes to Jail: In this uproarious installment of the popular franchise, Tyler Perry brings back his iconic character for yet another comedic adventure. As Madea faces the criminal justice system, she quickly becomes a force to be reckoned with – providing viewers with plenty of laughs and thought-provoking observations on societal issues.

    After a high-speed car chase, Madea (Tyler Perry) winds up behind bars because her quick temper gets the best of her. Meanwhile, Assistant District Attorney Josh Hardaway (Derek Luke) lands a case that's too personal to handle: that of a young prostitute and former drug addict named Candace (Keshia Knight Pulliam). When Candace winds up in jail, Madea takes the young woman under her protective wing.
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  • Madea's Family Reunion
    6

    Madea's Family Reunion

    Tyler Perry, Blair Underwood, Lynn Whitfield
    56 votes

    For Fans Of: Comedy, Drama, Family
    Why Should I Watch Madea's Family Reunion: Serving as a sequel to Diary of a Mad Black Woman, this 2006 comedy-drama features the return of Tyler Perry's beloved character Madea as she navigates familial chaos while preparing for a reunion. With themes of forgiveness and self-discovery at its core, the film offers viewers laughter and poignancy in equal measure.

    Southern matriarch Madea (Tyler Perry) has a lot on her plate. Her nieces have relationship troubles, and Madea has just been ordered by the court to become the guardian of a rebellious teenager named Nikki. Madea must keep the peace and keep her family together while simultaneously planning her clan's reunion.
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  • I Can Do Bad All by Myself
    7

    I Can Do Bad All by Myself

    Tyler Perry, Taraji P. Henson, Adam Rodriguez
    38 votes

    For Fans Of: Comedy, Drama, Romance
    Why Should I Watch I Can Do Bad All by Myself: Adapted from Perry’s titular play, this 2009 dramedy stars Taraji P. Henson as April - a lounge singer forced to become responsible when her late sister’s children are left under her care. Alongside compelling performances from Mary J. Blige and Gladys Knight, the film explores themes such as redemption and community in an authentic manner.

    When Madea (Tyler Perry) catches three young siblings raiding her home, she takes matters into her own hands and delivers the children to their only relative: Aunt April (Taraji P. Henson). At first, April, a boozy nightclub singer who leeches off her married boyfriend, wants nothing to do with them, but when a Mexican immigrant named Sandino (Adam Rodriguez) rents a room in her basement, April begins to realize that life may hold more possibilities.
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  • The Single Moms Club
    8

    The Single Moms Club

    Nia Long, Amy Smart, Cocoa Brown
    36 votes

    For Fans Of: Comedy, Drama
    Why Should I Watch The Single Moms Club: This empowering 2014 comedy-drama brings together five diverse women facing life as single mothers. As they form a support group, Tyler Perry weaves a story full of laughter and camaraderie that celebrates the resilience of these inspiring women and the true meaning of friendship.

    When their children face expulsion because of rule infractions, five single mothers must agree to organize the school's upcoming dance and fundraiser. Although they range from alpha professional to fast-food worker, the women find they have one thing in common: a need for support and an understanding ear. They form the Single Moms Club to help ease one another's burdens and reclaim their freedom. As their stress begins to lessen, the women find that finding love may be possible again.
  • Meet the Browns
    9

    Meet the Browns

    Tyler Perry, Angela Bassett, David Mann
    32 votes

    For Fans Of: Comedy, Drama, Romance
    Why Should I Watch Meet the Browns: Based on Perry’s stage play, this 2008 comedy-drama follows Brenda (Angela Bassett), a single mother who discovers her father’s family after his passing. It is an uplifting tale that delves into themes of forgiveness and accepting one's heritage while showcasing the director's signature blend of humor and human connection.

    Single mother Brenda (Angela Bassett) suddenly loses her job, then she receives news that the father she never met is dead. With nothing to lose, she gathers her brood and heads to Georgia, where she meets her father's uproarious family for the first time and finds the tentative beginnings of a new romance.
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  • What's Done in the Dark
    10

    What's Done in the Dark

    Tamela Mann
    23 votes

    For Fans Of: Comedy, Drama, Musical
    Why Should I Watch What's Done in the Dark: Based on Tyler Perry’s play of the same name, this recorded stage performance intertwines various plotlines for an engaging exploration of morality and consequence. With humor and heartache aplenty, it offers viewers an intimate glimpse into Perry’s theatrical roots.

    What's Done in the Dark is a play written and directed by American playwright Tyler Perry. The show first opened in September 2006. The play is a mixture of comedy, drama, and music, set in a hospital emergency room, and focuses on two nurses, one of whom is a single mother and the other of whom is having an affair with a doctor, and an eccentric hypochondriac patient who is in fact, Mr. Brown. The DVD was released on February 12, 2008.
  • Why Did I Get Married Too?
    11

    Why Did I Get Married Too?

    Tyler Perry, Sharon Leal, Janet Jackson
    46 votes

    For Fans Of: Comedy, Drama, Romance
    Why Should I Watch Why Did I Get Married Too?: Returning to the lives of four couples from its predecessor, this 2010 sequel examines various challenges faced by married people today – from infidelity to financial struggles. Directed by Tyler Perry, it offers sharp insights into modern relationships while keeping viewers invested in its relatable characters.

    In the Bahamas for their annual reunion, four couples are eager to share news about their lives over the past year. But when one's ex-husband arrives to break up her marriage and win her back, the others realize they are not immune to the challenges of love and fidelity.
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  • Madea's Witness Protection
    12

    Madea's Witness Protection

    Tyler Perry, Eugene Levy, Doris Roberts
    38 votes

    For Fans Of: Comedy, Crime, Drama
    Why Should I Watch Madea's Witness Protection: In this 2012 comedic romp, Madea becomes an unlikely protector for a family placed in witness protection after uncovering a Ponzi scheme. As they navigate their new lives under Madea's roof, viewers are treated to laugh-out-loud moments and unforgettable characters from Tyler Perry’s creative universe.

    For years, mild-mannered Wall Street banker George Needleman (Eugene Levy) has meandered through life oblivious to his family's dysfunction and his company's malfeasance, but he's forced to wake up when he learns that he's been framed in a mob-backed Ponzi scheme. Placed under federal protection, George and his family are shipped down South to Madea's (Tyler Perry) house, where the no-nonsense matriarch whips them all into shape using her special brand of tough love.
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  • Temptation: Confessions of a Marriage Counselor
    13

    Temptation: Confessions of a Marriage Counselor

    Jurnee Smollett-Bell, Lance Gross, Kim Kardashian
    34 votes

    For Fans Of: Drama, Thriller, Romance
    Why Should I Watch Temptation: Confessions of a Marriage Counselor: This provocative 2013 drama takes viewers on an emotional rollercoaster as it follows a married woman tempted by the allure of an exciting stranger. Directed by Tyler Perry, the film offers powerful performances from Jurnee Smollett-Bell and Lance Gross while examining themes such as infidelity, trust, and redemption.

    Judith (Jurnee Smollett-Bell) has known her husband, Brice (Lance Gross), since they were in high school, but now their marriage is growing stale. Having just completed her graduate work in psychotherapy, she's eager to begin a career as a marriage counselor. She takes an internship at a matchmaking firm for millionaires and meets Harley (Robbie Jones), a charismatic client who makes no effort to hide his attraction to Judith. Judith succumbs to his charms, placing her marriage in jeopardy.
  • Good Deeds
    14

    Good Deeds

    Tyler Perry, Thandiwe Newton, Gabrielle Union
    37 votes

    For Fans Of: Drama, Romance, Comedy
    Why Should I Watch Good Deeds: This 2012 romantic drama stars Tyler Perry as Wesley Deeds – a successful businessman whose predictable life takes an unexpected turn when he forms a bond with single mother Lindsey Wakefield (Thandie Newton). Poignant and emotionally resonant, the film delves into themes of self-discovery and stepping out of one's comfort zone.

    For all his life, wealthy businessman Wesley Deeds (Tyler Perry) has done what's expected of him and has settled into a predictable routine. His life begins to change, however, when he meets Lindsey Wakefield (Thandie Newton), a struggling single mother who has just been evicted. Wesley offers to help Lindsey get back on her feet and, though he's already engaged, romantic sparks begin to fly. Suddenly, Wesley finds himself torn between what is expected of him and what he really wants.
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  • Madea's Class Reunion - The Play
    15

    Madea's Class Reunion - The Play

    Tyler Perry, Tamela Mann, David Mann
    29 votes

    For Fans Of: Comedy, Drama, Musical
    Why Should I Watch Madea's Class Reunion - The Play: Before its cinematic adaptation, this stage performance showcases Tyler Perry’s iconic character amidst high school reunion chaos – all while addressing serious issues like domestic abuse and forgiveness. With sharp humor and moving monologues, it is an essential watch for fans seeking insight into the origins of Perry's beloved franchise.

    Madea attends her 50th class reunion.
  • Why Did I Get Married?
    16

    For Fans Of: Comedy, Drama, Romance
    Why Should I Watch Why Did I Get Married?: A must-watch for fans of the cinematic version, this stage production is where it all began – with powerful performances bringing to life four couples facing challenges within their marriages. Directed by Tyler Perry, the play masterfully balances humor with raw emotion for a captivating exploration of modern relationships.

    Why Did I Get Married? is an American play written by Tyler Perry. The version recorded and released on DVD starred Cheryl Pepsii Riley as Sheila, LaVan Davis as Poppy, Donna Stewart as Diana, Tony Grant as Troy and Cordell Moore as Mike. The stage play was adapted into a motion picture by Lions Gate Entertainment which opened in theaters on October 12, 2007.
  • Madea's Big Happy Family: The Play
    17

    Madea's Big Happy Family: The Play

    Cassi Davis, Cheryl Pepsii Riley
    25 votes

    For Fans Of: Comedy, Drama, Musical
    Why Should I Watch Madea's Big Happy Family: The Play: In this live stage production, Tyler Perry’s iconic character is called upon once more to mediate family turmoil. Combining sharp wit with heartfelt emotions, the play provides an authentic look at family dynamics and serves as a precursor to the 2011 film of the same name.

    Madea's Big Happy Family: The Play is the video of the stage play released in 2010. This is not to be confused with the film of the same name released in 2011.
  • Madea's Big Happy Family
    18

    Madea's Big Happy Family

    Tyler Perry, Shad "Bow Wow" Moss, Loretta Devine
    28 votes

    For Fans Of: Comedy, Drama
    Why Should I Watch Madea's Big Happy Family: A family matriarch on a mission, Madea returns in this 2011 comedy-drama as she helps her niece Shirley (Loretta Devine) reveal a life-changing secret to her grown children. With relatable themes such as love, forgiveness, and communication at its core, Tyler Perry crafts another heartening story that will leave audiences both laughing and inspired.

    When Shirley (Loretta Devine), Madea's niece, receives distressing news about her health, the only thing she wants is her family gathered around her. However, Shirley's three adult children (Shad "Bow Wow" Moss, Shannon Kane, Natalie Desselle-Reid) are too preoccupied with their own troubled lives to pay attention to their mother. It is up to Madea (Tyler Perry), with the help of rowdy Aunt Bam (Cassi Davis), to bring the clan together and help Shirley deal with her crisis.
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  • For Colored Girls
    19

    For Colored Girls

    Kimberly Elise, Janet Jackson, Loretta Devine
    31 votes

    For Fans Of: Drama
    Why Should I Watch For Colored Girls: Adapted from Ntozake Shange’s landmark choreopoem For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide / When the Rainbow Is Enuf, this poignant 2010 drama follows interconnected stories of black women facing adversity in their lives. Directed by Tyler Perry, it boasts powerful performances from Thandie Newton, Kimberly Elise, and Anika Noni Rose while offering an unflinching look at the intersection of race and womanhood.

    In New York, a group of black women, most of whom live in the same Harlem apartment building, faces personal crises, heartbreak and other challenges. Crystal (Kimberly Elise) faces an unhappy existence as an abused lover. Jo (Janet Jackson) is a successful magazine editor, but her husband has a secret double life. Juanita (Loretta Devine) is a relationship counselor but cannot seem to get her love life in order. These three and others become bound together by their experiences.
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  • The Family That Preys
    20

    The Family That Preys

    Kathy Bates, Alfre Woodard, Tyler Perry
    32 votes

    For Fans Of: Drama, Romance
    Why Should I Watch The Family That Preys: In this 2008 drama, Tyler Perry weaves the tale of two families – one wealthy, one working-class – whose lives become inextricably linked. Starring Alfre Woodard and Sanaa Lathan, the film delves into themes such as class divides, betrayal, and redemption for a compelling exploration of human relationships.

    Despite their differences in social class, Charlotte (Kathy Bates) and Alice (Alfre Woodard) are good friends for many years. Then secrets, greed and scandal surrounding both their families throw the women's lives into turmoil. Charlotte and Alice set out on a road trip across the country, hoping to gain perspective and save the situation from ruin.
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  • What's Done in the Dark
    21

    What's Done in the Dark

    Christian Keyes, Tamela Mann, David Mann
    24 votes

    For Fans Of: Comedy, Drama, Musical
    Why Should I Watch What's Done in the Dark: Based on Tyler Perry’s play of the same name, this recorded stage performance intertwines various plotlines for an engaging exploration of morality and consequence. With humor and heartache aplenty, it offers viewers an intimate glimpse into Perry’s theatrical roots.

  • Laugh to Keep from Crying
    22

    Laugh to Keep from Crying

    Cheryl Pepsii Riley, Támar
    21 votes

    For Fans Of: Comedy, Drama, Musical
    Why Should I Watch Laugh to Keep from Crying: Tyler Perry's stage play brings together neighbors from a diverse urban apartment complex who face real-life challenges with humor and grace. This recorded performance highlights Perry's signature blend of comedy and heartfelt storytelling that shines a light on love, community, and resilience.

    Laugh to Keep from Crying is a play written and directed by American playwright Tyler Perry. The show first opened in the fall of 2009. The play is a mixture of comedy, drama, and music, set at an inner-city building in a predominantly African-American neighborhood.
  • I Know I've Been Changed
    23

    For Fans Of: Drama, Musical
    Why Should I Watch I Know I've Been Changed: As Tyler Perry's first-ever stage play production, this powerful gospel-infused drama tells the story of two adult survivors of child abuse who must confront their painful pasts in order to find healing. With raw emotion and thought-provoking themes at its core, it is an essential watch for fans interested in the director’s humble beginnings.

    I Know I've Been Changed was the first major successful play from famed playwright Tyler Perry. The play focuses on critical issues including child abuse and rape and how they are overcome by a strong belief in God. Soul musician Ryan Shaw got his start performing in this play in 1998. The play received its first staging in Atlanta in 1992. The play toured from 1998 to 2000.Grammy award winning vocalist Ann Nesby of the musical and instrumental group Sounds of Blackness played a supporting role in this play/production.
  • Boo! A Madea Halloween
    24

    Boo! A Madea Halloween

    Tyler Perry, Cassi Davis, Bella Thorne
    10 votes

    For Fans Of: Comedy, Horror, Drama
    Why Should I Watch Boo! A Madea Halloween: In this 2016 horror-comedy installment of the popular franchise, Madea finds herself facing off against ghosts and ghouls during a chaotic Halloween night. Directed by Tyler Perry, the film offers plenty of laughs alongside commentary on modern-day parenting – making it a perfect seasonal watch for fans craving both humor and frights.

  • A Fall from Grace
    25

    A Fall from Grace

    Cicely Tyson, Tyler Perry, Bresha Webb
    2 votes

    For Fans Of: Drama, Thriller
    Why Should I Watch A Fall from Grace: In this thrilling 2020 crime drama, a public defender (Bresha Webb) works to prove the innocence of her client (Crystal Fox), accused of murdering her husband. Directed by Tyler Perry, the film showcases powerful performances while offering a suspenseful exploration of truth and deception.

    When a woman is indicted for murdering her husband, her lawyer thinks there may be a conspiracy at play.
  • Mea Culpa
    26

    Mea Culpa

    Kelly Rowland, Trevante Rhodes, Sean Sagar
    0 votes

    For Fans Of: Thriller, Drama, Crime
    Why Should I Watch Mea Culpa: In this 2014 thriller, an accident-prone police officer with a troubled past finds herself caught in a web of conspiracy and betrayal. With its high-stakes action and compelling plot twists, Tyler Perry's edge-of-your-seat direction keeps viewers guessing until the very end.

    A criminal defense attorney takes on the case of a seductive artist accused of murdering his girlfriend, but when burning desire takes hold, things get hot -- and dangerous.
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  • Tyler Perry's A Madea Homecoming
    27

    Tyler Perry's A Madea Homecoming

    Tyler Perry, Cassi Davis, Brandon Black
    0 votes

    For Fans Of: Comedy, Drama, Family
    Why Should I Watch Tyler Perry's A Madea Homecoming: Set for release in 2022, this highly anticipated film marks the return of Madea after her brief retirement – promising more laughs, life lessons, and heartwarming moments from Tyler Perry’s iconic matriarch. As fans eagerly await the latest installment in this beloved franchise, there is no doubt that Madea's homecoming will be nothing short of memorable.

    Tyler Perry's A Madea Homecoming continues the comedic saga of Mabel "Madea" Simmons (Tyler Perry), who comes out of retirement for this installment. As the family prepares for a joyous graduation celebration, secrets are revealed, and long-standing issues resurface, threatening the festive mood. The film presents themes of unity and forgiveness, along with the enduring strength of familial bonds. Perry's signature mix of humor and heart takes center stage as Madea dispenses her unique brand of wisdom and tough love, ensuring that if the family can't find harmony during the reunion, they'll at least find plenty of laughs.