Beauty in Black

Tyler Perry's new Netflix show Beauty in Black marks an exciting shift in his storytelling approach, one that reaffirms his talent for drama while distancing him from the shortcomings of past projects like Mea Culpa. Known for his body of work that often veers between comedy and drama, Perry has received a mixed critical reception over the years. While his comedic creations-especially in the Madea franchise-have a loyal fan base, I argue that Perry's writing shines brightest in dramas, where he tackles complex social issues, family dynamics, and darker themes. Beauty in Black exemplifies this strength, blending drama, romance, intrigue, and opulence into a compelling narrative that keeps audiences invested.

In comparison to Mea Culpa, which struggled with pacing and narrative depth, Beauty in Black benefits from Perry's commitment to detail and character development. Mea Culpa attempted to portray intense personal drama and moral reckoning but fell flat due to underdeveloped characters and a lackluster script that felt rushed. Many fans and critics felt that Perry's desire to deliver emotional depth in Mea Culpa was overshadowed by clichéd dialogue and plot holes that left viewers frustrated rather than captivated. Divorce in the Black which aired later was slightly better than Mea Culpa in my opinion, although not his best work. This backlash may have impacted Perry's approach moving forward, pushing him to refine his storytelling style and perhaps take his time with Beauty in Black.

Set against the backdrop of luxury, wealth, and high-stakes drama, Beauty in Black introduces audiences to a cast of affluent characters whose lives are tangled in secrets, deceit, and passion. The show dives into the themes of desire and betrayal within a world where reputation and image mean everything. Perry has taken the time to explore each character's motivations, making the drama feel more layered and realistic. Unlike his earlier works, which sometimes suffered from surface-level storytelling, Beauty in Black delves into the psychology of each character, revealing flaws, insecurities, and hidden agendas that resonate with the audience. The show's emphasis on power struggles and moral ambiguity elevates it above a standard drama, creating an intricate web of relationships that keeps viewers guessing.

A key aspect of Beauty in Black is its unapologetic exploration of sexuality and the tensions that arise from romantic entanglements among the elite and sometimes not so elite. Perry leans into the show's adult themes, portraying love, lust, and rivalry in ways that add intensity to the story. The sexual dynamics between characters aren't merely sensational but serve to expose their vulnerabilities and ambitions. In Beauty in Black, these elements are central, and they contribute significantly to the show's appeal. The cast delivers in this series, it was refreshing to see some new faces with strong acting skills.

One of the strongest elements of Beauty in Black is its unpredictability. Perry has incorporated numerous twists and turns into the plot, keeping the audience engaged and continuously questioning characters' motives. Just when viewers think they have a handle on the storyline, new secrets come to light, altering the direction and forcing characters to confront their own weaknesses.

As fans eagerly await the next season, Beauty in Black serves as a testament to Tyler Perry's ability to give us great dramas like his past movies Temptation, Acrimony, Fall from Grace, Why did I get married, to name a few. It's safe to say audiences are ready for more, and if Perry continues on this trajectory, Beauty in Black could become a defining show in his dramatic portfolio.

The acting was bad enough to make me notice the wooden delivery. It was Temu Sopranos with the messy family and violence...but none of the chemistry, fluid dialogue or gripping storyline. None of the characters are likeable and I spent the whole show waiting for Kimmie to grow some balls...

Everyone sucks at communication...Kimmie and the old man...just never talk about important details...like he never tells her that he followed through on a promise he made...and she spends half of the show mad at him for not following through...and the other half accusing him of being a human trafficking ring leader but they never just sit and talk about it in full sentences...

Kimmie: "I know who you is!" 😠 Old Man: "What you mean?" 🤔 Kimmie: "Nothing." 😒

They'd have no plot if it wasn't for this type of incompetence and poor dialogue.

I hesitated watching Beauty in Black due to Tyler Perry's inconsistency in making great content but wanted to give it a fair chance by watching it end to end. So, I did.

It was full of intrigue, debauchery, violence, twists, and turns. If one attempted to create a melodrama that combined elements of Empire (at its height), P-Valley, and Dynasty (at its height), the outcome would be Beauty in Black. The acting cast is solid with plausible performances throughout the series.

I struggled with 2 disappointments: the over-use of the N-word exchanged repeatedly between the Black characters AND the perpetuation of negative Black stereotypes. Tyler P has a great deal of influence and power in Hollywood. It would be refreshing to see him amplify images and voices consistently that are positive for the Black community. People (inside and outside of the Black community) take their cues from this content and may place more weight on the accuracy of its portrayals because a Black filmmaker is behind the camera. He can do better.

That said, if one wants a soapy, rollercoaster ride of melodrama, then I would recommend Beauty in Black.

Tyler Perry has done it again. Another misogynistic view of Black women, another terrible series with bad acting and belittling story lines. Is it just greed? Is Tyler Perry trying to show the Hollywood elite that he has something meaningful to say? If so he has failed miserably. I must say that I used to look forward to new entertainment from Mr. Perry. Lately I just get more and more disappointed. The profanity, the nudity, the misogyny from the very beginning. I tried because it seemed it may get a little interesting. However,I just couldn't keep watching. Come on Mr. Perry, I know you can do better. We are so much more than pimps, strippers, hustlers, criminals and bad actors. Tell the stories of the Black folks I know, the nurses, the doctors, the honest entrepreneurs, the hardworking fathers and mothers who do all they can to protect and uplift their families. Their stories need to be told and can be interesting as well.

*sigh* I think what bothers me about some of TP's projects is the lack of creativity. He tends to put a lot of money into the scenery, the elaborate sound-stage homes and all of the beautiful extras. He makes it all look so beautiful and "rich". But underneath the sparkle, it's the same old formula...stereotypical "Beeotches" and "hoes", amateur acting, unnecessary drama, violence & hate. I thought this was more about the building of a successful family business. But EVERY SINGLE CHARACTER YELLS & CURSES at each other the ENTIRE time. The premise HAD potential. I just had different expectations.