I Can Do Bad All By Myself

2002 NR 2h 13m DVD

I Can Do Bad All By Myself

2002 NR 2h 13m DVD
  • Overview
  • Details
In this filmed version of writer-director Tyler Perry's hit play, Perry reprises his role as family matriarch Madea, whose niece, Vianne (Kisha Grandy), is grappling with divorcing her cheating husband (Carl Pertile) -- unaware that her sister, Maylee (Donna Stewart), is the other woman. Meanwhile, to Madea's dismay, an ex-con handyman (Tigah Graham) begins courting Vianne. When Madea falls ill, the secrets surface and the family must unite.
Cast
Tyler Perry, David Mann, Tamela Mann, Kisha Grandy, Tigah Graham, Carl Pertile, Elaine O'Neal, Donna Stewart
Director
Tyler Perry
Format
DVD
Screen
Full Screen 1.33:1
Subtitles
English, Spanish (Neutral)
CC
Yes
Audio
English: Dolby Digital 2.0 Stereo
Rating
NR - Not rated. This movie has not been rated by the MPAA.
age 14+
Common Sense rating OK for kids 14+
age 14+

Common Sense Note

Parent need to know that this dramedy based on a play by Tyler Perry is both gritty and righteous. Although, like Perry's other films, it ends on a decidedly optimistic (if unsurprising) note, the main character is an iffy role model throughout much of the movie -- she smokes, drinks, and shows no compassion toward her sister's young children, who all need her help. The movie also examines the tragic toll of child abuse and includes a scene of near-sexual assault on a teenage girl.

Sexual Content

A woman messes around with a married man, but the audience doesn't really see anything except them in bed under the covers. In another scene, a man and a woman share a gentle kiss.

Violence

A married man makes inappropriate, aggressive advances toward a teenager -- to the point of almost raping her. Two men end up in a bloody fight. A woman nearly kills a man by electrocuting him. Two comic characters jokingly threaten to dispense corporal punishment to set kids straight.

Language

Mild swearing, including one use of "s--t" and several instances of words like "ass," "hell," "damn," and "shut up." Also "oh my God."

Social Behavior

Perry's messages of faith and hope shine through, which many viewers may find inspiring. But his chauvinism does, too: Main character April can't seem to be saved without a man, and though she's a strong character, a not-so-subtle undercurrent leaves the impression that a woman needs a "good man" to make her way through this world intact.

Consumerism

While characters are seen dressed to the nines, there's little mention of brands -- though the Heineken label gets screen time.

Drugs / Tobacco / Alcohol

A woman practically chain smokes her way through the movie; she also drinks so much that her friend calls her on it. A joint is mentioned but never seen on screen.

  • Age appropriate
  • Not an issue
  • Depends on your child and your family
  • Parents strongly cautioned
  • Not appropriate for kids of the age

This information for parents is provided by Common Sense Media, a non-profit organization dedicated to improving kids' media lives.

How it works

  • 1

    Create your list

    Browse from thousands of movies and shows.

  • 2

    Free delivery

    We send out your disc the next business day.

  • 3

    Watch and repeat

    Free returns, plus no due dates or late fees.

Unlimited movies sent to your door, starting at $9.99 a month.