Tijuana Jackson: Purpose Over Prison

2020. • 96 minuta

O ovom filmu

A laugh out loud comedy about an ex-convict, Just released from prison and placed on probation, Tijuana Jackson (Romany Malco) sets out to fulfill his dream of becoming a world renowned motivational speaker, but fails to comply with strict orders from his no-nonsense probation officer (Regina Hall). And with his sister Sharea (Tami Roman) needing TJ to be a better role model for her son Lil' Eric (Alkoya Brunson), his mother (lyne Odums) needing him to help out more around the house, and a student camera crew following him around everywhere he goes, it's just a matter of time before TJ gets himself into trouble again. Chasing a life changing opportunity, he violates his parole, flees his jurisdiction, abandoning his family and community in the process. Facing more jail time and cut off from the only support system he's ever had, TJ must master the art of achieving selfless success through serving his community or fail miserably serving time.

Ocene i recenzije

Simply put, this movie was worth the wait. Tijuana Jackson is a character that embodies so many of the people we know (and even is a part of us) that relating to his struggles and triumphs was easy. Great cast, great storytelling and a definite watch for those interested in REALity.

This was a great first effort from Romany Malco. Many of us have been following his independent film journey with the "Tijuana Jackson" character for a minute. He has definitely developed the character and found actors with whom he has a natural rapport. There are so many "hidden jokes" in the film that it's worth watching again. Many people might not like the type of humor in the film. It's an acquired taste. You have to know people like Tijuana to understand where he's coming from. Still, Romany wants people to focus more on WHY the film was made and not just WHAT it's about. We must humanize our American prisoners because many of them are wrongfully convicted. If they receive a second chance, they can do good for society.

This is a funny movie with a great deal of heart. Thoughtful story as you see the lead really learn what it is to make it out of a life of crime into a legitimate life. Romany Malco takes his funny character and really makes you root for him and his family. Lil Eric really steals the performance and the actor does a great job of showing how kids in not ideal situations can be the light and hope for the adults. Funny and heartfelt with a story of the Black experience that hasn't been done.