"This year has been so serious with 'Django' and 'Scandal,' and I love those roles and those opportunities, but it's great, especially right now with what's going on in the world, it's so great that this movie gives people a chance to laugh and smile and feel good about life, and about love and family," she said.
In "Peeples," Washington's family is celebrating a reunion weekend. Craig Robinson plays the boyfriend no one knows about who decides to crash the party and meet the parents.
There are high hopes for "Peeples" success. It's the latest film from the production company run by Tyler Perry.
"Tyler stepped in, not just with financing but to kind of bless the film and put his name behind it and champion new filmmakers, so it's just such a great example of how he's using his power for good," Washington said.
The combination of talent on the film also includes David Alan Grier and S. Epatha Merkerson as Washington's parents. And playing her grandmother is the legendary Diahann Carroll, in her first film in 16 years.
"If there's one reason to see the movie it's Diahann Carroll!" said Washington.
"Peeples" is rated PG-13 and is in theaters this weekend.