UPDATE: Tyler Perry’s latest film, Finding Joy, is now streaming on Amazon Prime Video, but early reviews are urging viewers to skip it. This quasi-holiday romantic comedy, released in December 2025, is generating buzz for all the wrong reasons, as reviewers slam its lack of quality and originality.
The film centers on Joy, played by Shannon Thornton, a struggling designer who faces a series of comedic misadventures during a blizzard in Colorado. Critics describe the film as a “sloppy first draft” with a plot that lacks cohesion. Despite its holiday setting, the film fails to deliver the festive spirit, with minimal holiday decor and a weak storyline.
Perry, known for his rapid-fire production schedule, has released five direct-to-streaming films in 2025 alone. This latest offering, Finding Joy, is said to be a prime example of his focus on quantity over quality. The film features a character named Joy who navigates professional and personal setbacks, including a cringe-worthy revelation about her half-dating situation.
Reviewers have pointed out that the film is plagued by poor dialogue and uninspired performances, making it a tedious watch. “Every joke lands flat,” noted critic John Serba. The film’s slow pacing and lack of engaging moments have led to widespread disappointment among viewers.
As audiences flock to streaming platforms for holiday entertainment, Finding Joy is being compared unfavorably to Perry’s previous works. While some have found moments of humor, the consensus is clear: this film is not worth the time.
For those interested in catching the film despite the warnings, Amazon Prime is offering a 30-day free trial for new subscribers, after which the service costs $14.99 per month.
With the holiday season underway, viewers are encouraged to seek out better options for festive entertainment. As reviews continue to pour in, it remains to be seen how Finding Joy will ultimately fare in the competitive streaming landscape.
