"Good Deeds" is written, directed, and starred by Tyler Perry though don't expect Madea in this one. It's really a film about people struggling to make the tough choices necessary to follow their dreams. Wesley Deeds (Perry) is highly predictable according to fiance Natalie (Gabrielle Union) and strives to please by following the path set out for him particularly by his mother Wilimena (Phylicia Rashad). Wesley has taken over the helm of his late father's company, much to the chagrin of his wayward brother Walter (Brian J. White). A chance meeting with a struggling single mother Lindsey (Thandie Newton) and her daughter makes Wesley rethink what makes him happy, while Natalie, Lindsey, and Walter also have issues of their own to resolve.
I think that this film is so different from Madea that it's unbelievable. "Deeds" is so much more contemplative and thoughtful as the characters stumble through their choices. I liked that all of the characters were flawed and had their own struggles though I would've liked to have seen Union's character get more development. White overacts a bit in his role but really it's Newton who steals the film and tugs on the heartstrings as the down-on-her-luck single mother turned janitor who is too proud to take help from anyone. At times I thought the storylines were a little predictable but overall I appreciate a more thoughtful film from Perry and the theme which I think is relatable.
C+ from me but rent with caution if you are a Madea fan because this is not a comedy.
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