Tyler Perry’s Ruth and Boaz Review: A Modern Retelling of a Timeless Romance

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Tyler Perry’s newest film “Ruth & Boaz,” released on Sept. 26, is proof that ancient stories can still speak powerfully to modern audiences. 

Loosely based on the Biblical account of Ruth, the film reimagines themes of grief, loyalty, love and redemption within a contemporary setting. At just 93 minutes, the movie is a heartfelt swift retelling. 

The film begins in Atlanta’s music scene, where Ruth (played by actress Serayah McNeill) is a rising hip-hop star torn between her soft, poetic voice and the pressures of the music industry. When tragedy strikes in the form of a violent carjacking that claims the lives of Ruth’s boyfriend and Naomi’s (played by actress Phylicia Rashad) husband. 

Naomi decided to leave everything behind and retreat to her hometown of Pegram, Tennessee. Distraught, Ruth packed her things up and insisted that she go with her after much resistance from Naomi. This mirrors the Biblical Ruth’s choice to remain loyal to Naomi in times of trial.

According to the Bible, Ruth 1:16 says, “But Ruth replied, ‘Don’t urge me to leave you or to turn back from you. Where you go, I will go, and where you stay, I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God.’”

Ruth’s same spirit of steadfast loyalty is reflected powerfully throughout the film, showing that true devotion often comes in moments of heartbreak. 

Once the two women settle in Tennessee, Ruth is introduced to Boaz (played by Tyler Lepley), who owns a vineyard. In the Bible, Ruth works in Boaz’s fields to provide food for herself and Naomi, an act that demonstrates her humility and resilience.

The vineyard in the film becomes a modern parallel, a place where Ruth not only finds provision but also encounters stability and compassion. The shift from a field to a vineyard feels symbolic: growth, renewal and patience all tied together as Ruth’s life begins to change. 

Another strong Biblical connection comes through Naomi’s character. In the Book of Ruth, Naomi laments her losses and even declares that she should be called Mara, meaning “bitter” (Ruth 1:20). In Perry’s retelling, we see Naomi in her despair, symbolized in a moving scene where she removes her cross hanging on her wall. Yet just as in the Biblical narrative, Naomi’s hope is eventually restored through Ruth’s loyalty and Boaz’s kindness.

Though some may criticize the film for not following the Biblical story word-for-word, Perry succeeds in capturing its heart. The themes of devotion, faith and redemption are all present and are simply translated into a world that today’s viewers can recognize and relate to.

A 10-episode limited series could have allowed for even deeper exploration of Ruth’s past, Boaz’s background and Naomi’s transformation.

Still, “Ruth & Boaz” remains a moving modern retelling of one of scripture’s most beloved stories. The Biblical Ruth’s loyalty, courage and faithfulness are timeless qualities, and this film gives them fresh life in a new setting. It may be brief, but it’s a reminder that love and faith can overcome even the darkest trials.