Tyler Perry’s Joe’s College Road Trip Review

February 16, 2026

Tyler Perry’s Joe’s College Road Trip Review

I had the absolute pleasure of attending an advance screening of Joe’s College Road Trip, the latest project from powerhouse filmmaker Tyler Perry and baby, it’s definitely a ride.

Before the film began, Tyler personally introduced it and made one thing very clear: this is not your typical Madea movie. He shared that the inspiration for Joe’s character in this story came from his late uncle, whom he lovingly described (in his own words!) as a real SOB but also a true character. That raw, unfiltered spirit is exactly what he brought to life on screen.

As we all know, Madea’s foul-mouthed brother Joe has always been something else forever bragging about his glory days, the women he charmed, and his so-called “pimp” past. But in this film, we see a slightly different layer to him. Joe takes his sheltered, college-bound grandson B.J. on a wild cross-country road trip to give him a crash course in the real world.

Jermaine Harris as B.J., Tyler Perry as Brian, Tyler Perry as Joe, and Tyler Perry as Medea in Joe’s College Road Trip

What unfolds is both hilarious and eye-opening. Along the way, they stop at significant historical landmarks places rich with Black history that B.J., having grown up extremely sheltered and somewhat disconnected from his roots, knows little about. He even expresses the belief that because it’s 2025, Black history should simply “heal and move on.” Joe strongly disagrees and takes it upon himself to school the young man the only way he knows how loudly, bluntly, and unapologetically.

The journey includes powerful visits to places like the site in Mississippi where Emmett Till was found, and the historic Lorraine Motel in Memphis, where Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated. These moments are woven into the storyline in a way that feels organic so while you’re laughing, you’re also learning. It’s truly a history lesson wrapped inside a comedy.

The film also stars Amber Reign Smith, who many will recognize from Beauty in Black. She plays a brothel worker who unexpectedly befriends B.J. Despite her profession, her character is deeply connected to her culture and doesn’t hesitate to educate B.J. on Black history and identity. We’re also treated to memorable cameos from comedian Ms. Pat and soulful legend Millie Jackson, which add even more flavor to the film.

The soundtrack deserves its own shoutout it beautifully complements the emotional and historical weight of the journey. Between the music, the humor, and the powerful cultural references, the film keeps you entertained while quietly planting seeds of reflection.

Overall, the movie is funny, a little raunchy, thought-provoking, and surprisingly heartfelt. It grabs your attention, sparks conversation, and reminds us why understanding our history and each other still matters.

Be sure to check it out—it’s now streaming on Netflix.