Synopsis

Helen McCarter's seemingly secure marriage collapses when her wealthy husband leaves her for another woman and casts her out of their home. Forced to rebuild her life, Helen turns to her tough, outspoken grandmother Madea for shelter and guidance. With help from a kind stranger and her family, she begins reclaiming her independence, dignity, and hope for a happier future.

Factoids & Trivia

• The film was adapted from Tyler Perry's stage play of the same name, which premiered in 2001.

• It marked Perry's feature-film debut and introduced Madea to movie audiences. It is also the first film in the Madea franchise.

• Perry financed much of the $5.5 million production budget with money earned from his successful stage productions.

• The movie opened at number one in the United States on February 25, 2005, and earned approximately $50.6 million domestically.

• Unlike most later Madea films, Perry did not direct this one. He wrote the screenplay and played several roles.

• The film received a rare A+ audience grade from CinemaScore despite generally negative reviews from critics.

• Its success led to the sequel Madea's Family Reunion, released on February 24, 2006.

• Perry won BET Comedy Awards for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Theatrical Film and Outstanding Writing for a Theatrical Film for the movie.