Since the year 2001, September 11 will always be a day of tragedy and history for our nation as we remember the heartless crimes committed by terrorists. By no means do I take that day lightly. I honor the lives lost. I also respect the courage of the firemen and rescue workers who made efforts to save others after the catastrophe. However, September 11 occurred this year on a Friday and holds more fund memories for me. It was the day when Tyler Perry's most recent movie release, "I Can Do Bad All by Myself" premiered in cinemas across the country. Believe me. This experience was very much welcomed. It had come after a week of work and bills. A family member had been diagnosed with swine flu and I'd had my own bout with sickness. Yeah, I needed this.

A girlfriend and I both waited in line that evening for the movie to start and for more people to join us. She mentioned to a clerk that we'd purchased tickets in advance for "Why Did I Get Married?" I laughed and quickly corrected her concerning the name of the film. Yep. Tyler has definitely done it again. In addition to his plays, he's given us a number of movies since his debut cinema production in 2005 (Diary of a Mad Black Woman). "Yeah," I remember my friend saying. "This is his seventh movie." I stood back with a sense of pride. "That's right," I stated. "I haven't thought about it that way. This is his seventh one." I realized there was a blessing and a silver lining in her mistake. It's no small thing to me when someone, namely an African American, produces enough movies for us to confuse the titles.

Ten years ago, many of us never even knew him or his name. After years of struggling with poverty and homelessness, Tyler Perry catapulted his way into family rooms and theaters as a playwright. He has given us laughter and a bit of wisdom through his character, Madea. Perry's latest cinema release, like his other movies, is the type of content that can fuel the best discussions at restaurants, on the job and after church. Tyler Perry has made history no doubt. But still, why all the hype? Shouldn't we be used to him by now? Shouldn't we be tired of him? Some of us view celebrities from fickle standpoints. If that's the case, Tyler Perry's continual success could make him boring in our eyes next big thing." It's obvious that certain movie critics don't understand all the hype nor do they embrace the man and his work. For one, some of them are troubled with Perry's drag performance of Madea, comparing it to the blackface minstrels that showcased during the early 20th century. Within our own community, some disagree with the way Perry depicts black culture. Others claim that all his films promote nearly the same message to his audience. While critics may call it the "same old message," I call it consistency. I share that with you in a positive light. Think about it. Perry's latest movie release is a perfect example of the consistency he gives his audience. For instance, you know that with a Tyler Perry Film you're going get churched. It is encouraging to hear Pastor Marvin Winans' message in the latest release. He reminds us that we're worth someone else taking the time to pull us out of darkness. He also lets us know that we're worth it when someone waits on us. By the time Pastor Winans and the choir sings "Just Don't Wanna Know," the message ministers on an even more personal level. When watching a Tyler Perry film, you may cry. That's okay.

The shedding of tears can be cleansing. Some of us are moved by the crying scene played by Hope Olaide Wilson. She stars as Jennifer, the 16- year old girl, in the movie. Her tearful outburst reflects the cry of someone who encounters a threatening situation of rape and abuse. Her tears may even be familiar to some of us. They come from a place of anger and hopelessness. They come from someone wrongly accused and seeking justice. On the other extreme, you can expect to laugh when watching a Tyler Perry movie. From Madea's antics to her explanation of the Bible, you have to surrender to the laughter even if you're shaking your head in the process. It's unbelievable how she "goes there." By the way, people: please read your Bibles. Get the word for yourselves.

Another thing to expect when watching a Tyler Perry movie is to be inspired. Taraji Henson's character in Perry's latest film is realistic and far from perfect. Yet, her makeup and bobbed hairstyle give viewers a fresh take on beauty. The most beautiful thing, however, is the transformation that takes place within her. The change in her character is actually the thing that will maintain her inner and outer beauty. When viewing Henson's performance, there's no doubt she approaches her role with passion and sincerity. Gladys Knight brings wisdom and experience to the film as a seasoned songstress. Through her role as Wilma, she reflects the solidarity of one who has been there, done that and overcome it. Viewers may find it difficult not to move their heads as Mary J. Blige jolts out the lyrics of the film's title track. Each word, each move and each beat has the power to liberate the most burdened soul. And I thought "Just Fine" was her best.

The hype that surrounds Perry is justifiable for more reasons than making history and being consistent. It's justifiable because he doesn't mind thanking his fans and letting people know he's doing it with the help of the Lord. I can't suggest watching his productions as a substitute for going to church, but I can say that his work brings ministry to a wide-scale arena. His work creates a platform for some of the best talent in the Black community and beckons the upcoming talent of other races. It's exciting to see how the careers of Hope Wilson and Adam Rodriguez may change due to their appearances in this release. Stores and online music services may witness an increased interest in music and tracks by Pastor Winans.