Tyler Perry’s latest film, aptly titled “Joe’s College Road Trip,” may sound like a mouthful, but it perfectly encapsulates the chaotic yet heartfelt journey it delivers. Fans familiar with the “Madea Cinematic Universe” should note: while Madea makes a brief appearance, the spotlight here is firmly on her outrageous brother, Joe, both portrayed by the multi-talented Tyler Perry himself. Rounding out the family dynamic is Joe’s respectable, bourgeois son, Brian.
The story kicks into gear when Brian’s son, B.J., expresses a desire to attend Pepperdine University in sunny California, rather than following tradition at the historically Black Morehouse College in their home state of Georgia. In a seemingly baffling decision, Brian entrusts his eccentric father, Joe, with the task of driving young B.J. across the country.
[A video preview for “Tyler Perry’s Joe’s College Road Trip” is available, offering a glimpse into the film’s unique blend of humor and unexpected situations.]
This road trip is anything but conventional. The film pushes boundaries with its language, featuring Grandpa Joe dropping more expletives than you might expect from a Tyler Perry production. Even those well-acquainted with Joe’s usual outspoken nature might be taken aback by the sheer volume of his colorful vocabulary.
But the surprises don’t end with the language. Audiences will encounter unexpected plot points, including a visit to a brothel and a memorable performance by the legendary raunch-funk pioneer Millie Jackson. The naive B.J., played brilliantly by Jermaine Harris, receives a life education not just from his destination, but from the journey itself and its colorful characters. This includes Destiny, a wonderfully portrayed rogue prostitute by Amber Reign Smith, and most significantly, his seemingly unhinged Grandpa Joe, who proves to be wise as a fox. Without giving away the film’s ultimate twist, astute viewers will likely piece together the significance of certain moments early on – for instance, a seemingly casual photo stop by the Mississippi River holds more meaning than meets the eye. Premiering during Black History Month, “Joe’s College Road Trip” compellingly weaves together themes of anger, pride, and family in an expansively anarchic yet convincing narrative.
Film Details:
Tyler Perry’s Joe’s College Road Trip
Rated R for mature themes and strong, pervasive language.
Running time: 1 hour 49 minutes.
Available to watch on Netflix.