About Tyler Perry's 'The Family That Preys'

"'The Family That Preys', directed and produced by Tyler Perry in 2008, is a timely illustration of class conflict, family dynamics, love, friendship, and personal crisis presented through the intimate viewfinder of two families, intertwined by their various relationships. The two matriarchs of these families, Alice and Charlotte, share a friendship which endures the test of times and numerous trials; while their children navigate through their personal crises, testing familial bonds and igniting class warfare.

Making / Production

'The Family That Preys' is one of the first drama-rich films released by Tyler Perry. Its focus on complex family dynamics and class conflict marked a departure from his previous popular Madea series. The film was produced by Perry's production company, The Tyler Perry Company.

Actors

• Alfre Woodard as Alice: Alice is a composed and nurturing figure whose friendship with Charlotte holds a deeper message of endurance and unity. Woodard brings Alice to life with her compelling performance.
• Kathy Bates as Charlotte: Intense and yet compassionate, Bates plays the wealthy southern socialite, navigating her tricky family dynamics while maintaining her longstanding friendship with Alice.
• Sanaa Lathan as Andrea: Playing Alice's ambitious and often errant daughter, Lathan brings a layer of intricacy to Andrea's character.
• Tyler Perry as Ben: Playing the ever-supportive son of Alice, Perry effectively brings out the essence of familial bonding amid crises.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The Family That Preys is Tyler Perry's fourth film that does not feature his popular character, Madea.
• The film was shot in Atlanta, Georgia, USA, like most of Perry's films.
• The movie delves into themes of class conflict and racism, a departure from Perry's earlier works.

Quotes

• "Alice: No man can walk out on his own story."
• "Charlotte: Money separates friends. It's a rule. I should have never forgotten it."

Music, Soundtrack

• "Steal Away" - Performed by Robbie Dupree
• "Ohhh Lord" - Written by Kervin Cotton, Performed by Kervin and The New Chapter