Last weekend was one to binge watch as many movies and read as many books as I could. The problem with trying to do so many things at once is that these things may be done haphazardly or not done to completion. This simply means that I have a couple of incomplete reads but luckily, zero in complete watches. One of the movies I so lovingly watched during the weekend was “Finding Joy”, a Tyler Perry movie.
This movie amongst others was given to me by my precious hairstylist and the movie came with high praises so naturally, I had high expectations. Follow along to find out if my hopes were tarnished or not.
About The Movie
The story opens by introducing us to Joy, a passionate and talented fashion designer navigating the cutthroat world of New York City's industry. We see her pouring creativity into her work while dealing with professional frustrations; feeling undervalued and overlooked despite her obvious talent.
Encouraged by her two best friends and fueled by her own hopes, Joy decides to take a significant step in her personal life and away from her professional life by traveling with a romantic interest to meet his family during the holidays. What Joy anticipated to be the best holiday of her life quickly shifts as circumstances unfold, leading her into a challenging situation far from home.
As the plot develops, we watch as Joy grapples with the realities of her choices and the emotional weight they carry.
The movie stars actors like Shannon Thornton, Tosin Morohunfola, Brittany Hall, Inayah and Aaron O'Connell. It was written, directed and produced by Tyler Perry and was officially released on the 5th of November, 2025 on Prime Videos. This movie happens to be Perry's first holiday themed movie is over a decade since A Madea Christmas.
My Opinion
This movie is quintessentially Tyler Perry. It is heartfelt, a bit predictable but delivered with genuine warmth and performances that elevate the movie.
I liked the chemistry between the leads and how a brief moment of isolation created a believable bubble for emotional development. Even though some parts seem forced.
Joy's best friends were certainly another highlight of this movie. Their banters were funny, supportive and non-stereotypical. Both best friends had separate personalities but both of them together were the most supportive duo any friend can ask for.
The movie dived into several themes but at the core was self-worth and personal rediscovery. Joy's arc highlighted learning not to settle in love or in career and also reclaiming one's value even after betrayal or professional dismissal.
Unexpected love and second chances played out through the isolated slow burning connection that developed amid Joy's crises. Sisterhood, friendship and faith were some other themes explored in this movie.
On the flip side, the pacing in the early New York scenes felt rushed as everything was just happening all at once but the scenes over at the cabin and mountains were more deliberate.
Recommendation and Rating
Tyler Perry's "Finding Joy" is a good romance drama film that delivers feel good vibes, strong leads and inspirational undertones. I'd give the move a 7 out of 10 rating just because this isn't one of Tyler Perry's groundbreaking movies and I believe this could have been better.
However, if you're in the mood for something light but meaningful or something to pass the time, this would be worth watching. If you also have a hopeless romantic friend then they may learn a thing or two from this movie.