Tyler Perry rose from difficult circumstances to build one of the largest entertainment empires in the world. A multi-talented writer, director and actor, Perry’s films have stuck a nerve with audiences desperate to see a positive portrayal of African-American culture far removed from the typical Hollywood mode.

Perry’s films have grossed over $500 million to date (he recently bought himself a private island in the Bahamas). With Good Deeds, he continues his rich vein of form, telling the story of businessman Wesley Deeds (Perry), who lives his life according to a perfectly planned script. He runs the company his father founded and is engaged to the beautiful, ambitious Natalie (Gabrielle Union).



Walter is almost pathologically organized and driven by routine, much to the frustration of his fiancée and his hot-headed younger brother, Walt (Brian J White). But when Wesley strikes up a surprising friendship with struggling single mother Lindsey (Thandi Newton), it shakes everyone out of their comfort zones.

As always with Perry’s films, the message is strong and the characters are inspirational, as well as aspirational. Not surprisingly for a man who owns his own island, Perry is not afraid to indulge in a bit of lifestyle porn, and the film’s look, locations and accessories are all immaculate.

The closest thing Good Deeds has to a villain is Wesley’s brother, Walt, who is often held up as a chiding rejoinder to the hyper-masculine image of African-American men projected by so many other films. But even Walt is given his fair share of sympathy; most of the conflict occurs within the main character, as Wesley battles with his expectations of himself and those that others have placed on him.

Things never get too messy, however, and the tone of Good Deeds remains unfailingly wholesome; those who like their films to come with a clear, positive message will find a lot to like.

Good Deeds is available on DStv BoxOffice from Mon 30 Jul to Mon 10 Sep.