Directed by
Tyler Perry
Made by
Lionsgate
Read the complete plot summary and ending explained for Madea Goes to Jail (2009). From turning points to emotional moments, uncover what really happened and why it matters.
After a chaotic police chase on the freeway, Madea is apprehended and brought to court. Although she’s not convicted due to a legal oversight—the officers neglected to inform her of her rights—she is faced with a permanently suspended license. Consequently, Judge Mablean Ephriam mandates her to attend an anger management course. Upon returning home from court, Madea discovers her brother, Joe Simmons, throwing a party in her residence, claiming it’s an effort to lift her spirits. However, Madea is far from pleased with this attempt at merriment and decides to break up the gathering using an intimidating machine gun, sending the guests fleeing.
In an attempt to work on her anger issues, Madea consults with Doctor Phil McGraw, but her cooperation is lacking. Later, needing groceries, she calls her granddaughter Cora for a ride, but Cora, busy at the salon, declines her request. Ignoring Joe’s prediction that her solo trip would lead to trouble, Madea drives herself to Kmart. There, she encounters a rude woman who steals her parking spot. Provoked, Madea commandeers a forklift to remove the offending car, causing significant damage. This reckless act lands Madea back in court, where Judge Greg Mathis sentences her to a staggering five to ten years in prison.
While Madea faces her own challenges, assistant district attorney Joshua Hardaway is rapidly advancing in his career, prosecuting a young prostitute and drug addict named Candace “Candy” Washington. Joshua’s fiancée, Linda Davis, becomes suspicious when he shows kindness towards Candace, interpreting it as infidelity. Despite Linda’s disdain for Candace’s lifestyle, Joshua remains compelled to assist her, even risking his future by getting involved personally. Tensions escalate as Candace confronts the disparity between her background and Linda’s sheltered existence.
As the situation intensifies, Joshua finds support in an old friend, Ellen, a former addict who now helps others. After securing a job interview for Candace, the meeting turns sour when sexual harassment occurs. Just before Madea’s trial, Ellen learns about Joshua’s friendship with Candace and encourages him to let go of the guilt he harbors from their past. Joshua had abandoned Candace during a traumatic event in college, which has haunted him ever since. Ellen reassures him that he is not responsible for the choices that led to Candace’s downfall.
In the district attorney’s office, Joshua’s best friend, Chuck, uncovers the shocking truth: Linda is manipulating evidence against Candace and others, including Madea. Her deceitful actions are fueled by jealousy over Joshua’s compassion. Although Chuck nearly exposes her lies to Joshua, he hesitates due to Linda’s blackmail regarding his bar exam cheating. Candace, ultimately disillusioned, returns to her old life, leading to her arrest once again.
While incarcerated, Madea takes Candace under her wing, defending her against insults and harassment. The two women, along with fellow inmates, participate in a class led by Ellen, discussing themes of forgiveness and personal accountability. Madea urges the women to cease their victim mentality and embrace growth, inspiring Candace to confront her past grievances against Joshua. During a visit, Candace expresses that she had called Joshua’s name during her assault, hoping he would come to her aid, but he never did. With newfound clarity and support, she decides to forgive him and reclaim her life.
On the day of his wedding, Joshua’s world is turned upside down when Chuck reveals Linda’s treachery regarding Candace’s file just before the ceremony. In a bold move, Joshua confronts Linda publicly, exposing her lies and calling off the wedding. He rushes to the prison, professing his love to Candace and pledging to help her regain her freedom.
Following the revelations of Linda’s misconduct, a public outcry emerges, championing the release of Madea, Candace, and others unfairly prosecuted by Linda. Ultimately, their sentences are overturned, while Linda faces serious legal repercussions for her fraudulent actions. The film concludes with Candace and Joshua, now a couple, walking hand-in-hand from the prison, celebrating their love with a kiss amidst flashing cameras and reporters.
Follow the complete movie timeline of Madea Goes to Jail (2009) with every major event in chronological order. Great for understanding complex plots and story progression.
Police Chase
The movie begins with a chaotic police chase on the freeway, showcasing Madea's impulsive nature. This reckless behavior ultimately leads to her apprehension by law enforcement.
Court Appearance
Madea finds herself in court, where she is released due to a legal oversight, as the officers neglected to inform her of her rights. However, the judge imposes a permanently suspended license as a consequence of her actions.
Anger Management Course
As a part of her sentence, Judge Mablean Ephriam mandates Madea to attend anger management classes. This event marks the beginning of Madea's struggle to confront her anger issues.
Party at Home
Returning home from court, Madea discovers her brother Joe throwing a party to lift her spirits. Unimpressed by the gathering, Madea uses an intimidating machine gun to disperse the guests.
Grocery Trip
In need of groceries, Madea calls her granddaughter Cora for a ride, but Cora is busy. Undeterred, Madea decides to drive herself to Kmart, ignoring Joe's warnings that it will lead to trouble.
Forklift Incident
While at Kmart, Madea encounters a rude woman who takes her parking spot. In a fit of rage, she commandeers a forklift to remove the offending vehicle, causing significant property damage and returning her to court.
Sentenced to Prison
After the forklift incident, Madea is sentenced to five to ten years in prison by Judge Greg Mathis. This represents a major turning point in her life as she faces serious consequences for her actions.
Joshua's Rising Career
Meanwhile, assistant district attorney Joshua Hardaway is advancing in his career as he prosecutes a young prostitute named Candace. His compassion for her situation begins to create tension in his personal life.
Candace's Struggles
Joshua's fiancée, Linda, grows suspicious of his actions towards Candace, mistaking kindness for infidelity. This adds strain to Joshua's relationship as he grapples with his desire to help Candace.
Support from Ellen
Joshua reconnects with an old friend, Ellen, who offers him advice and support as he navigates his feelings of guilt over Candace's situation. This friendship becomes a crucial element in his decision-making.
Linda's Manipulation
Chuck, Joshua's best friend, uncovers that Linda is manipulating evidence against both Candace and Madea out of jealousy. This revelation adds a layer of complexity to the unfolding drama.
Candace Returns to Old Life
Disillusioned with her situation, Candace returns to her old life of substance abuse and ends up getting arrested again. This underscores the challenges and harsh realities faced by individuals in her position.
Madea Mentors Candace
While in prison, Madea befriends Candace, defending her against insults and encouraging her to rise above her circumstances. This mentorship fosters a sense of hope and accountability among the inmates.
Joshua Challenges Linda
On his wedding day, Joshua confronts Linda after discovering her treachery regarding Candace's file. In a dramatic turn of events, he calls off the wedding, focusing instead on supporting Candace.
Public Outcry
Following the revelations about Linda's misconduct, a public outcry arises demanding the release of Madea, Candace, and others wrongfully prosecuted. This leads to their sentences being overturned and justice being served.
Explore all characters from Madea Goes to Jail (2009). Get detailed profiles with their roles, arcs, and key relationships explained.
Madea (portrayed by Tyler Perry)
Madea is a strong-willed, outspoken matriarch known for her humorous yet abrasive personality. Her journey in the film revolves around confronting her anger issues while providing support to Candace, showcasing her capacity for growth and understanding. Madea's unorthodox methods often lead to chaotic situations, but her heart remains in the right place.
Joshua Hardaway (portrayed by Derek Luke)
Joshua is a dedicated assistant district attorney caught between his professional duties and personal feelings for Candace. As he navigates the complexities of his relationships, Joshua exhibits compassion and a desire to make amends for past mistakes. His character arc highlights the struggles of balancing ambition with morality.
Candace 'Candy' Washington (portrayed by Keshia Knight Pulliam)
Candace is a young woman grappling with addiction and the ramifications of her past choices. Initially perceived as a victim of her circumstances, her character evolves as she begins to embrace accountability and seeks forgiveness. The support she receives from Madea helps her reclaim her identity and aspire for a better future.
Learn where and when Madea Goes to Jail (2009) takes place. Explore the film’s settings, era, and how they shape the narrative.
Time period
The events of the film unfold in contemporary times, addressing issues that are relevant to modern society, such as legal rights and substance abuse. The timeless exploration of personal growth and redemption themes resonates across various time periods, allowing the story to feel both immediate and universal.
Location
Kmart, Court, Prison
The film takes place primarily in an urban environment, featuring locations like a Kmart where an anger-fueled confrontation occurs and a courthouse where critical legal battles unfold. The prison settings depict the struggles and transformations of the characters as they navigate their decisions and the consequences of their actions. The courtroom serves as a backdrop for both humor and serious themes of justice and redemption.
Discover the main themes in Madea Goes to Jail (2009). Analyze the deeper meanings, emotional layers, and social commentary behind the film.
💔
Redemption
The theme of redemption weaves through the characters' journeys, especially for Madea and Candace. As Madea mentors Candace during their time in prison, they both learn to confront their pasts and seek forgiveness, illustrating the power of personal growth. The film emphasizes that despite grave mistakes, individuals can change and find new paths in life.
👮♂️
Justice
Justice is a critical theme represented in the courtroom dramas and the corruption faced by the characters. Madea’s legal troubles and the manipulative actions of Linda highlight the flaws within the justice system. Ultimately, the narrative reveals the importance of advocacy and integrity, prompting society to challenge wrongful convictions.
Uncover films that echo the narrative beats, emotional arcs, or dramatic twists of the one you're exploring. These recommendations are handpicked based on story depth, thematic resonance, and spoiler-worthy moments — perfect for fans who crave more of the same intrigue.
What's After the Movie?
Not sure whether to stay after the credits? Find out!
Explore Our Movie Platform
New Movie Releases (2025)
Famous Movie Actors
Top Film Production Studios
Movie Plot Summaries & Endings
Major Movie Awards & Winners
Best Concert Films & Music Documentaries
© 2025 What's After the Movie. All rights reserved.