Diary of a Mad Black Woman: Synopsis

Filled with a mix of comedy and drama the film Diary of a Mad Black Woman is based on the immensely popular play of the same name written by Tyler Perry. The story focuses on Helen McCarter (Kimberly Elise), who has seemingly had the perfect life with husband Charles McCarter (Steve Harris). Over the years, Helen has been a faithful and loving wife, while Charles built a successful and lucrative career as a prominent Atlanta attorney. They wear the latest fashions and drive the nicest cars. They live on an expansive estate complete with an extravagant mansion, swimming pool, tennis court and all the trappings of wealth – a little piece of paradise away from the city. They have all the possessions one could want. However, on the eve of their 18th wedding anniversary Helen’s paradise begins to crumble as Charles announces that he wants a divorce. He abruptly -- and literally -- tosses Helen out of the mansion to make room for the other woman.

With all of her belongings packed in a moving van, Helen starts on her journey to put the pieces of her life back together. Through the assistance of her family, faith, and a twist of fate, Helen finds the strength and empowerment she needs to get control of her circumstances. She also finds that the tragic events of her life soon become comic, especially with the help – mostly unsolicited -- of pot-smoking, gun-toting, and much beloved, grandmother figure Madea (Tyler Perry).

Director Darren Grant brings Tyler Perry’s vision to screen by intricately weaving together drama and comedy to portray the universal experience of redemption and forgiveness, broken hearts and new-found love, recovery, inner strength and the importance of family and faith as revealed through a cast of colorful and often familiar characters.

DIARY OF A MAD BLACK WOMAN brings to the screen the zesty storytelling, larger-than-life characters, and uplifting vision that have made Tyler Perry a phenomenon in American urban theater. Adapted by Perry from his 2000 play of the same name, DIARY OF A MAD BLACK WOMAN is quintessential Perry: the story of a woman who, having been grievously wronged by her husband, must find a way to heal her wounds and move on with her life. DIARY OF A MAD BLACK WOMAN follows its heroine’s journey from heartbreak and vengefulness to recovery and renewal, blending intense emotional drama with raucous comedy and soaring gospel music. It is a buoyant portrait of African-American life and culture, and a film that speaks to anyone who has had to grapple with betrayal and hurt at the hands of those they love.