I don't understand

Why are folks so threatened by Tyler Perry and his films. I don't think he set out to make Oscar worthy films. I believe he is doing exactly what he set out to do, which is, make films for a key demographic he feels is not represented in the cinematic community.

While I agree the writing and directing aren't the best, it is still miles above what I do as an independent filmmaker, and he is living and doing the work many indie filmmakers dream about.

The man started out doing these as plays, and now he has one of the most successful independent film studios in the world. Yes, through his hard work and determination he has managed to open a studio and produce films Hollywood normally shuns. He entered into a lucrative distribution deal with Lionsgate and on miniscule budgets makes anywhere from 2-4 time the invested monies back.

It is unheard of for most films to see a 100% ROI, his films average a 200% ROI.

Hate the films, hate the man, but respect the legacy he is providing and groundwork he is laying. He has pretty much offered anyone the path to success if you follow his formula.

I know as an independent filmmaker I labor day in and day out to get an audience to see my films, and like most I started out as a horror filmmaker, and just recently switched genres, making an indie urban gangster film. Do I make tons of money? No My average budget per film is about $5,000.00, yet I get distribution and have been nominated and have won awards. Do I want his success, who the heck wouldn't?

But for those in the film community knocking the man, you should stop and take a deep look at what he is showing and accomplishing. I am not saying the work itself but the business behind the work. He built a brand, and it isn't off a comic book or novel. It is something he created and has nurtured since its inception.

Could his films use work, sure, but whose film doesn't need work, even some of the greats have made films that are so-so or just plain suck.

What I am saying is that I don't understand the hate, even from folks in the african american community. I hear or read you feel his is stereotyping, but he is making what he feels to be films a generation of individuals will watch and enjoy. I am sure is not aiming for every single person to like his films. If you think he should be, you're forgetting the concept behind the art.

To those not in the film business who just trash his work to feel better about themselves need to step back and take a look in the mirror. Now ask yourself this, having never made a movie, written a script or produce a film, could you honestly do any better? If you say yes you're lying to yourself to feel better about the negative comments you have made in regards to his work.

Just admit you're not a fan and leave it at that.

Seriously, and as I said this is coming from someone who has made 3 films, and I know my work isn't the best and I accept it. I just keep trying to do better with every project and I believe so is Tyler, but so many have a blind hatred of the man and his work they don't really look at the films as a whole overall.

For those curious as to what work I did, the link to one of my films is below.



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"Deadlands 2: Trapped" http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1103262/