In a open letter rant on the state of the black entertainment industry, Tyler Perry has encouraged movie-goers to support black films or risk them becoming "extinct."

Due to dips in DVD sales and poor reception in foreign markets, Perry claims studio executives are become more weary about producing films with all-black casts.

The screenwriter/actor also pointed out the difficulty even industry heavyweight George Lucas had in getting his new movie Red Tails produced, despite it featuring high-profile names like Cuba Gooding Jr., Ne-Yo and Terrence Howard.

However, the last of Perry's big comedy hits, Madea's Big Happy Family, still managed to gross over $53m in the U.S. last year and net a profit of over $25m, despite mixed reviews from critics.

Do you agree with Tyler Perry - are African-American-led movies losing their popularity? Rock your vote in our poll.

Teyana Taylor, Bow Wow Attend Tyler Perry's 'Madea's Big Happy Family' Premiere'...

 

Are black movies losing their popularity?

1. 1. Yes - Tyler should concentrate on making better films
2. 2. No - The Madea franchise shows they still have money-making potential