Before diving into Tyler Perry’s The Family That Preys, it’s important to acknowledge a blank slate. Unfamiliar with Perry’s extensive filmography prior to this viewing, there’s no pre-existing framework to compare this latest exploration of family dynamics against. However, approaching it fresh allows for an unbiased look at what unfolds – a movie that, despite any external perceptions, reveals itself as a compelling melodrama dissecting the complexities of morality in a society obsessed with wealth. For those uninitiated with Perry’s work, The Family That Preys serves as an accessible entry point, presenting a narrative where the glittering facade of affluence masks deeper, more troubling human flaws.
At its core, The Family That Preys uses religion as a backdrop rather than a pulpit. While faith is present in the characters’ lives, the film thankfully avoids heavy-handed sermons or divisive social commentary. Instead, it posits morality as an inherent human trait, one that transcends religious boundaries yet frequently buckles under the strain of social climbing and economic disparity. This is where the film’s strength lies – in its portrayal of a class system that pits individuals, even families, against each other. The narrative’s most compelling thread illustrates this through the fractured relationships of spouses entangled in a web of ambition and deceit. Race, subtly woven in, becomes another tool in this manipulative game, as two intertwined families engage in a silent war fought with financial leverage and clandestine affairs. In this ruthless ascent to the top, integrity becomes a casualty, leaving those with genuine hearts to sift through the wreckage of their shattered lives. The film’s title, initially provocative, ultimately proves to be an accurate, if not understated, descriptor of the predatory nature of some within this family.
Perry’s directorial style in The Family That Preys leans into the traditions of morality plays, crafting a piece of populist entertainment that is both accessible and engaging. The performances are noteworthy, a testament to the cast’s dedication and Perry’s precise direction, evident in the deliberate pacing and staging of scenes. There’s a distinct theatrical quality blended with cinematic techniques – a tracking shot highlighting the dignity of work is a prime example – that elevates the film beyond typical melodrama. This blend of styles resonates with a common-sense critique of capitalist excess and personal dishonesty. Ultimately, The Family That Preys suggests a universal principle, whether attributed to faith or fate: actions have consequences, and sometimes, even familial bonds must be severed when faced with betrayal and moral bankruptcy. In the world Perry creates, where appearances deceive and ambition reigns, it becomes clear that sometimes, drastic measures are deemed necessary to restore balance.
Score:
Cast: Alfre Woodard, Sanaa Lathan, Rockmond Dunbar, KaDee Strickland, Cole Hauser, Kathy Bates, Taraji P. Henson, Robin Givens, Tyler Perry
Director: Tyler Perry
Screenwriter: Tyler Perry
Distributor: Lionsgate
Running Time: 111 min
Rating: PG-13
Year: 2008
Buy: Video
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