The images of Candace’s street-walking include run-ins with an angry pimp and, of course, implied sexuality, all of which take the film into “PG-13” territory. Madea’s endorsement of revenge and her flaunting of lawless behavior, while comic, also involve salty language and far from model behavior. As Perry fans already know, the writer’s humorous dialogue can push the envelope of family friendliness, while usually stopping short of the level and frequency of crudity that characterizes so much of today’s “comedic” films.
The upside of Perry’s stories is their far-from-subtle redemptive element. We know where the stories are going long before they resolve, but in this case, seeing the evangelistic efforts of Ellen and the awkward prayers of the Browns—neither of which is presented in as doctrinally sound a fashion as some might hope—bear fruit in the lives of troubled characters leaves a warm glow.
Predictable melodrama doesn’t often make for a recommendable movie, but in Madea Goes to Jail, that weakness is overcome, thanks in large part to Davis’ performance. The movie won’t be winning any Oscars next year, but its positive elements make it worth seeing for teens and adults.
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