Brandy Norwood, stars as Melinda in Tyler Perry’s newest film, “Temptation.” Credit: KC Bailey
While she’s had platinum-selling records, a hit TV show and numerous film roles, it’s the chance to star in a Tyler Perry movie that has Brandy Norwood most excited. Metro caught up with the star of Perry’s “Temptation” to talk about that chance as well as what it is that makes Perry movies so incredibly popular.
After living the Tyler Perry filmmaking experience, what do you think it is that makes him such a popular filmmaker?
I think it’s his heart, spirit and honesty. I think he’s relatable, and it just feels like he’s hung out in all of these areas and ‘hoods. Every one of his films, you feel like you know a person like the characters in your life. I think that’s what makes him so powerful. On top of that, he’s so humble, down to earth and appreciative for everything that he has accomplished. He’s not afraid to give that back and to help others. He opens the door for so many people and I’m one of them.
What does it mean to you personally to be in a Tyler Perry movie?
Personally, it’s everything because I’m a fan. I started off watching the plays on DVD. So it’s a dream come true to be in a movie that he’s directing, a movie that he’s written, and then to be a part of something so powerful. It’s a blessing.
You mentioned how powerful the film is, but what struck you the most when you first read it?
It was the subject matter. I felt like so many people have these battles in their relationships and not following that inner voice — that intuition that’s telling you, “No!” It’s that battle of the mind over the heart. The mind is telling you, “You shouldn’t do this.” Also, people get confused what running is instead of what confronting is. Sometimes people feel like when you run away from your past or when you run away from the things that you don’t want to face, you’re being strong or you’re being brave. You’re not. You’re being a coward. It touches on that, especially with my character.
You’ve been successful in music, TV and film. Does each provide a different kind of creative outlet for you?
It does, and they’re all different. Music for me is me. It’s the way that I can express my being. It’s very personal to me, and also it’s a way that I can relate to other people as well. People don’t want to feel like they’re all by themselves, and that’s what my music does for me and that’s what it does for other people. But with acting, I get a chance to challenge myself, to bring honesty and truth to someone completely different than me. That’s very difficult to do. I love the challenge of that.
