MOVIE REVIEW: Tyler Perry’s ‘Madea Witness Protection’ Brings the Laughs

For those looking for a simple summer comedy, look no further than Perry’s latest film. Witness Protection stars Tyler Perry, Eugene Levy, and Denise Richards in a two hour movie stressing the importance of family and standing up for oneself.

Perry’s versatility as an actor is usually his recipe for success. However, in this film, in which he plays Madea, Joe, and Brian - it’s the only ripe batch. Levy fails to convince with his portrayal of George Needleman, a Wall Street investment banker, and his wife, Kate (Richards), ends up stuck between being a compassionate stepmother and attractive gold digger. In fact, almost all of the characters are one-dimensional: Doris Roberts plays a memory-loss inflicted grandmother, Danielle Campbell plays an irritable teenager, and Devan Leos plays a lovable, chubby youngster.

The plot revolves around the downfall of Needleman, whose company, Lockwise Industries, has been discovered operating a mob-backed Ponzi scheme. Needleman is cast as the sheep to be slaughtered, and, due the death threats and criminal charges, sent to Madea’s house for protection. What ensues are humorous bits of Madea acquainting herself to the Needleman family, as well as some absurd tangents that bring the families closer together than they realize.

Overall, Witness Protection services well as a comedic break, though many flaws exist. The film seems a bit disjointed at times, and doesn’t live up to the caliber of Perry’s work. Regardless, Madea is her classic self, robust and hilarious, and for fans of Madea, that’s really all that matters. 

Showtimes are 11:55, 2:35, 5:20, 8:00, 10:30 at the 

For more information, call (949) 831-0446 or visit regencymovies.com

I give it 3 Patches out of 5