UPDATE: Tyler Perry’s latest film, Finding Joy, is now streaming on Amazon Prime Video, and viewers are debating whether to stream it or skip it entirely. Released in early 2025, this romantic comedy offers a unique twist on traditional holiday films but has drawn mixed reactions from critics.
The film centers on the character Joy, played by Shannon Thornton, who struggles to find herself amid a chaotic snowstorm in Colorado. As the plot unfolds, Joy discovers that her romantic interest, Colton (Aaron O’Connell), has ulterior motives for inviting her to his family during the holidays, leading to a comical yet cringeworthy situation.
Critics are already weighing in on the film’s quality. Many point out that while Perry is known for his prolific output—this year alone, he has five direct-to-streaming movies—Finding Joy lacks the polish and depth seen in more successful entries. The screenplay is criticized for feeling like a “sloppy first draft,” with humor that falls flat, leaving viewers wondering if they should invest their time in this latest release.
Amidst the film’s lighthearted premise, it grapples with deeper issues of love and self-discovery. However, the execution has left many feeling underwhelmed. The characters, including Joy’s supportive friends Littia (Inayah) and Ashley (Brittany S. Hall), are meant to provide comic relief, but their antics often distract from the main storyline rather than enhance it.
As Joy navigates her unexpected predicament—trapped in a blizzard and discovering hidden truths about those around her—audiences are invited to reflect on the meaning of joy itself. However, the film’s execution raises questions about whether it resonates with viewers looking for genuine emotional connection or simply delivers on cliché holiday tropes.
What to Expect: Viewers can anticipate a film that attempts to blend humor with heartfelt moments, but reports suggest it may fail to deliver on both fronts. The film’s production has been described as “relentlessly cheap,” and many wonder if Perry’s rapid-fire release strategy is compromising the quality of his content.
Next Steps: For those considering whether to watch Finding Joy, it’s available on Amazon Prime Video. New subscribers can take advantage of a 30-day free trial to explore the film and other Prime offerings. After the trial, subscriptions are priced at $14.99 per month or $139 per year, with discounts available for young adults.
As the conversation around Finding Joy evolves, audiences are encouraged to share their thoughts online. Will this film be a holiday favorite or merely a fleeting moment in Tyler Perry’s extensive filmography? Time will tell, but one thing is for certain: it’s sparking discussion and debate across social media platforms right now.
