Tyler Perry’s Meet the Browns (HBO)

About Tyler Perry’s Meet the Browns (HBO)

Tyler Perry's Meet the Browns, released in 2008, is a dramatic comedy film that tells the story of a single mother named Brenda who moves her family to Georgia to attend her father's funeral, believing it may help her to overcome her struggles. There, she meets the Browns, her half-brother's wild and eccentric family, who introduce her to a different world than she grew up in. The film is based on the play of the same name and marks Tyler Perry’s transition from stage to the big screen.

Making / Production

The film was written, directed, and produced by Tyler Perry. It was made under the umbrella of his production company, Tyler Perry Studios, with Lionsgate handling distribution. Filming took place primarily in Georgia and incorporated both on location and studio filming to create the unique world of the Browns.

Actors

• Angela Bassett as Brenda: A struggling single mother who moves her family to Georgia. Bassett’s heartfelt, no-nonsense portrayal of Brenda brings the character to life.
• Tyler Perry as Madea / Joe: Perry humorously plays the dual role of the tough but loving Madea and the eccentric Uncle Joe.
• David Mann as Leroy Brown: A carefree, funny character played remarkably by Mann.
• Lance Gross as Michael Brown: The romantic lead of the movie, Gross's charismatic portrayal of Michael won the hearts of viewers.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• This film marks the first time Tyler Perry does not play the main character in one of his films.
• The Browns' house was actually a stage set constructed specifically for the film.
• Despite its comedic aspect, the film tackles many serious topics such as poverty, single parenthood, and drug use.

Awards

Angela Bassett was nominated for an Image Award for Outstanding Actress in a Motion Picture for her role in the film.

Quotes

• "You don't have to worry about how you're going to make it, who's going to help you, or who did not help you. God will help you" - Madea
• "A family's what you make it" - Brenda
• "Can't see the forest for the trees, your big dream is blocking your view" - Joe

Music, Soundtrack

• "Alright" performed by Ledisi
• "Ain't Nothing Like the Real Thing" performed by Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell
• "Don't Give Up" performed by The Browns band