Madea's Big Happy Family

I've missed a lot of "Madea"s, this is only the 4th I've seen and by far the most serious, with Auntie Madea (Tyler Perry) dishing up heaping helpings of tough love for every family member. all overclouded by the imminent death of niece Shirley (Loretta Devine). I know Tyler Perry's made other social dramedies, this is like one overseen by Madea, so when the drama becomes intense, you know there's always broad comic relief just round the corner.

A bit somber and moralistic, but count on Madea's Big Happy Family for a little levity and a lotta Love.

I don't know if anyone else out there is a Tyler Perry fan, but I really enjoy his work and although at times a little schmaltzy, "Madea's Big Happy Family" is worth a trip to the theater.

As with all other Madea movies, Madea (Tyler Perry) takes on old and young. No matter who you are or think you are, if you cross Madea you are in for a good old A** chewing.

Madea's niece, Shirley (Loretta Devine) is given some bad news by her doctor. Her wish is to share the news with all the members of her family at dinner. She arranges a get together but there is a problem. Her family over time has become somewhat estranged. Although they do all eventually arrive at the house, it isn't long before the bickering and fighting begin. Shirley cannot find a moments peace when she can address the issue for which she had the gathering, and all too soon the family runs from the table and the house. Not knowing what to do next, Aunt Bam (Cassie Davis), in order to help Shirley, enlists the aid of Madea to corral all of the children, spouses and grandchildren around the dinner table so Shirley can let them know how much she loves each and everyone.

Along the way, Madea lets everyone know her philosophy of life as only she can and amidst the tragedy comes fulfillment and forgiveness. The movie runs the gamut of emotions - from grief to joy. One moment you may feel tears welling up in your eyes only to be followed by the laugh-out-loud antics of Madea.

I think there would have been nothing lost if Brown (David Mann) and his occasionally - emphasis on occasionally - funny shenanigans would have been left on the cutting room floor. I don't feel his part in the movie really added any value, but it is there and I took it for what it was.

The movie won't be nominated for any significant awards but as with all of the Madea series, there are some life lessons from which we all can learn taught by Madea in a way only she could get away with.

I recommend this film.

A typical Madea movie, some funny moments and some not so funny moments. The people were rude as hell which made it a bit annoying.

As part of sitting through a Tyler Perry "Madea" movie marathon, I came upon the 2011 movie "Madea's Big Happy Family". Sure, I had never heard about it, but I was familiar with the concept of the "Madea" movies, so I figured I knew what I was in for here.

The storyline in "Madea's Big Happy Family" was a step away from the previous heavier drama-based "Madea" movies, and venturing on to a more lighthearted comedy, which was definitely something that appealed more to me, if I have to be honest. Well, at least the first half of the movie, but it reverted back to being more of a drama than a comedy.

Of the entire cast ensemble, I was familiar with Tyler Perry, Loretta Devine, Cassi Davis and David Mann. The acting performances in the movie were fair.

Hardly a movie that warrants more than a single viewing.

My rating of writer and director Tyler Perry's 2011 movie "Madea's Big Happy Family" lands on a generous four out of ten stars.

I have never watched a Madea movie before so I didn't know what to expect. I saw this one last night and laughed HARD!! :) I thought it was well done as far as topics in the film...family fighting, raising kids, paying child support, just being decent people. Not only did I laugh out loud many times, I also cried.

A few topic I would have liked them to expand on...mostly toward the end with Byyyyyrrrooooooonnnnnn (OMG--his baby mommy saying his name like that cracked me up every time!) and what transpired with he and his mother but that might have made it too serious.

I don't watch many movies mostly because I am disappointed and find them a waste of time after. I would watch this one over and over and sure I'd enjoy it every time. Good job Mr. Perry...I'm sure I'll start watching your other films soon.