DVD Reviews
DVD Review: Tyler Perry’s Daddy’s Little Girls
By June L.
Jul 19, 2007, 17:23 GMT

There are a lot of tragedies in today’s world that can make us feel as if there is no hope for anyone to have a good life.   To combat that feeling, Tyler Perry has given us all a gift, a film that has answers for some of society’s depressing situations.

Daddy’s Little Girls is a story that inspires hope, honors responsibility, and delivers the message that if everyone tries to do the right thing, life can become more than just survival, it can be a joy.  It is an amazing film, with actors and production crew so committed to creating excellence, the love shines through every frame.
 
This is the story of Monty (Idris Elba), a mechanic who is raising his three little girls (the McClain sisters).  On top of all the responsibilities of single parenthood, he is in constant struggle with his crazy ex-wife (Tasha Smith) and her drug dealer boyfriend (Gary Sturgis) for custody of the children.  It is obvious to everyone but the courts that Monty is the best parent.  His best friend Willie (Lou Gossett, Jr.) and the people in his community support Monty emotionally, but it is when he meets Julia (Gabrielle Union) an Ivy-league lawyer, that his life really begins to change.
 
One of the joys of this film is that every actor has given a wonderful well-rounded performance.  There are no small roles, even the characters with few lines are so convincingly portrayed, the viewer may forget this is fiction.  Idris Elba conveys Monty’s strength and goodness through a blend of determination and tenderness without sacrificing any of the character’s masculinity. 

Gabrielle Union as Julia is brilliant and brittle to begin with, but through her association with Monty finds her humanity and regains her femininity.  Lou Gossett Jr., as Willie galvanizes the community to act responsibly with such inspiring words and strength of character, you may find yourself cheering out loud. 

His fellow actors all speak of Mr. Gossett’s enormous influence on the production in terms of professionalism and respect.  Malinda Williams who is brilliant as Maya says working with him was “like taking a master class in acting.”  The McClains Sierra, China and Lauryn, (a real life trio of sisters) play Monty’s daughters.  These little girls are incredible. 

They play some heavy scenes with such truth and spirit you will be in tears, and then watch in amazement as they turn around and do equally competent comedy.   Tasha Smith’s Jennifer is pure evil, Gary Sturgis’s Joe is scary.  Tracee Ellis Ross and Terri J.Vaughn are such fun to watch as Julie’s friends, Brenda and Cynthia. 

Like all friends, they are sometimes supportive and sometimes undeniably clueless (especially in the romance and blind date department.)   In all, this is a great cast to watch working together.
The DVD is presented in widescreen, 100 minutes of play, and loaded with special features.  The McClain sister’s interview is particularly charming, and makes me think we will be seeing much more from these talented youngsters. 

Other special features include:
Audio Commentary by Tyler Perry - which is fascinating
Extended Church Scene
Atlanta Aquarium: Working Underwater
Tyler’s Team: Cast and Characters – great behind the scenes moments, and cast interviews.
Introducing the McClain Sisters – These are adorable “real” little girls who are self-assured without being bratty or self-centered. 
English and Spanish Dolby Digital Audio, and English and Spanish subtitles.

The combination of good acting, and a powerful story with an uplifting message make this movie something unique.

Tyler Perry’s Daddy’s Little Girls is now available at Amazon. As of yet, there is not a release date for the UK. Visit the DVD database for more information.