Review: Acrimony (2018)
Directed by: Tyler Perry
Starring: Taraji P. Henson, Lyriq Bent, Crystle Stewart, Jazmyn Simon
Plot Summary
Acrimony is a psychological thriller that follows Melinda (Taraji P. Henson), a devoted wife who has spent years supporting her husband Robert (Lyriq Bent) through financial struggles and failed ambitions. After years of frustration and sacrifice, Melinda discovers Robert’s success and betrayal, leading her down a path of rage, obsession, and revenge. As her emotions spiral out of control, the film explores themes of love, resentment, and the consequences of betrayal.
Strengths
✔ Taraji P. Henson’s Powerful Performance – She delivers a raw, emotional, and intense portrayal of a woman scorned.
✔ Engaging Storytelling – The film uses flashbacks and narration to gradually unravel the story, keeping the audience intrigued.
✔ Explores Deep Emotional Themes – It delves into marital sacrifice, trust, and how love can turn into hatred.
✔ Unpredictable and Dramatic Climax – The final act takes a dark, thrilling turn, making for a shocking ending.
Weaknesses
❌ Melodramatic and Over-the-Top – Some scenes feel exaggerated, making it hard to fully sympathize with the characters.
❌ Pacing Issues – The film starts slowly, with some scenes dragging before the intensity picks up.
❌ One-Sided Perspective – Since the story is told mostly from Melinda’s viewpoint, it lacks a balanced exploration of both sides of the conflict.
❌ Unrealistic Character Decisions – Some of Melinda’s actions feel extreme and irrational, which might frustrate viewers looking for a more nuanced approach.
Verdict
Acrimony is a dramatic, emotionally charged thriller that showcases Taraji P. Henson’s brilliant acting but suffers from melodramatic storytelling and uneven pacing. It’s an intense and thought-provoking watch for fans of relationship dramas and psychological thrillers, though some viewers may find it too exaggerated.
⭐ Rating: 6.5/10 🔥💔⚖️
