This movie is good but not the best Tlyer Perry movie.Some things are a little iffy for kids younger that 12.
Tyler Perry's The Family That Preys
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Is it age appropriate?
About our ratings -
Is it any good?
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Common Sense says
Message-heavy dramedy features fine performances.
Why We Rated This
for Ages 14 and Up
The good stuff
What to watch out for
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Violence:
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Sex:
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Language:
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Consumerism:
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Drinking, drugs, & smoking:
What Parents Need to Know
This review of Tyler Perry's The Family That Preys was written by Sandie Angulo Chen
Parents need to know that, like most Tyler Perry movies, this dramedy focuses on mature themes surrounding race, class, marriage, and family. It's considerably less joke-filled than his previous work, and there's very little strong language ("bastard" is the harshest word, and it's only said once). There are two violent scenes, but only one is notably disturbing -- a husband strikes his wife. There are several allusions to an extramarital affair, but only one scene in which the couple embraces/kisses. Otherwise, the sexuality is limited to a few kisses between married couples. Most of the commercialism involves the fancy cars that some of the characters drive.
Families Can Talk About
- Families can talk about the film's messages. What points does Perry emphasize in his movies? Class doesn't seem to be an issue between wealthy Charlotte and working-class Alice, but in what other relationships are money and entitlement a problem? Nick tells Pam that Alice is a saint. How is she depicted as the movie's most virtuous character? How is her daughter Andrea portrayed? Perry's movies have been compared to morality plays. Do the overt messages to be honest, hardworking, faithful, etc. take away from or add to the film's entertainment value?
More on Tyler Perry's The Family That Preys
What’s the Story?
Is It Any Good?
It's a tribute to Perry's reputation that despite lukewarm reviews, his films have successfully attracted more and more top-notch ensembles. Bates and Woodard have a natural rhythm as best friends. Lathan, who's incredibly talented, is perfect as an educated social climber who can't stand her husband or family. She and Woodard have mastered playing mother and daughter (this is their third time) so well that they should be cast as a team. All of the finely crafted performances outshine Perry's overly obvious "lessons" and clichéd plot devices. (Though if you hold on through the end credits, you'll be treated to Gladys Knight's excellent rendition of Lee Ann Womack's "I Hope You Dance," the soundtrack's most significant anthem.)
Movie Details
Run time: 111 minutes
Theatrical release: 9/12/2008, DVD release: 1/12/2009
MPAA Rating: PG-13 for thematic material, sexual references and brief violence.
Our Members Say
Most Recent Reviews
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I rate this title on for age 12 and give it
- My concerns are:
- Excessive violence
- Drinking, smoking, or drug use
- My highlights are:
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I rate this title on for age 12 and give it
- My highlights are:
- Good role models
GREAT MOVIE! 5 STARS
GREAT MOVIE!!! Nothing bad except one of the themes, (Adultery) may put you off so 12+
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I rate this title iffy for age 14 and give it
Another Great Tyler Perry Movie
Great movie---although I do miss Madea!


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