The Eddie Murphy Comedy Classic Leaving Netflix Everyone Should Watch
It’s inevitable: each month, we sadly bid adieu to various beloved titles on Netflix. Sometimes, these farewells particularly sting–especially this month’s departure, the quintessential Eddie Murphy comedy classic, Coming to America. For those who saw the movie in the 80s, it’s a fantastic chance to remind yourselves of Murphy’s comedic genius. And for those who have yet to experience the 80’s icon when he was very much in his heyday, now’s your chance.
November 1 is the last day to stream Coming To America on Netflix.
Our story commences with Prince Akeem Joffer of Zamunda (a make-believe African country) bursting at the seams of his royal, plush life, suffocating him. The prince wants more than the abundant life of luxury and arranged marriage awaiting/oppressing him.
Thus, on his 21st birthday, Akeem, portrayed by Eddie Murphy in a career-defining performance, and his loyal aide Semmi, played brilliantly by another 80s icon, Arsenio Hall, flee to New York City, seeking a bride who loves Akeem for who he is, rather than what he has.
Hilarity ensues as the duo, masquerading as penniless foreigners, fend for themselves in the overwhelming, exhilarating city. Soon, they find themselves washed ashore, so to speak, in the vibrant borough of Queens. Hakeem’s quest for love leads to one comic misadventure after another, amounting to a delightful, winsome, fish-out-of-water tale.
Coming to America owes much of its cinematic success to its stellar cast, an ensemble effortlessly blending comedy and heart. Of course, the incomparable Eddie Murphy leads it, showcasing his transformative ability to slip into various characters throughout the film, from an African prince to a soulful singer to an elderly Jewish man, demonstrating an unparalleled acting range. Hall, playing several other roles himself, besides Semmi, mirrors Murphy’s dexterity, creating memorable and humorous personas.
The gravitas of James Earl Jones, who plays Akeem’s father, King Jaffe Joffer, contrasts strikingly with the film’s lighter instances, and the lovely Shari Headly, portraying love-interest Lisa McDowell, provides a heartwarming romantic foil for Akeem.
All are furthermore joined by humorous, protective, all-American John Amos, delivering great comedic moments as Cleo McDowell, Lisa’s father, and unforgettable Madge Sinclair as the graceful, stately Queen Aoleon. A cast for the ages terrifically backing Eddie Murphy.
Coming to America owes much of its cinematic success to its stellar cast, an ensemble effortlessly blending comedy and heart.
While it might surprise some, given its vaulted legacy, Coming to America received a mixed bag of critical reviews when it first hit theaters in 1988. Sure, some lauded the film for its effective humor, unique plot, and Murphy’s multifaceted performance, but others took issue with its pacing and over-reliance on comedic tropes. The New York Times, in particular, praised the film’s star but also derided the plot’s disjointedness.
However, over the years, the film’s reputation among critics improved sharply–leading to its cemented status as a classic of Eddie Murphy’s acting career. Critics today consider Coming to America as much more than another screwball 80s comedy, but a pioneering work paving the way for comedies involving cultural differences and identity.
On the other (financial) hand, the movie proved a veritable juggernaut at the box office. It certainly did not hurt that the film came out at the meteoric height of Murphy’s stardom. Nor did the movie’s unique premise–when combined with its star’s charm–exactly fail to draw audiences in droves.
Not only did the movie debut atop box office charts, but it grossed over $128 million in the United States and Canada alone before raking in an additional $160 million overseas. A box-office sensation, Coming to America demonstrated thunderously both Eddie Murphy’s power to draw an audience and the movie’s universal appeal, resonating with audiences of all cultural backgrounds and age groups.
Over the years, the film’s reputation among critics improved sharply–leading to its cemented status as a classic of Eddie Murphy’s acting career.
It makes sense, given the star’s talent and the trajectory of his remarkable Hollywood career.
Murphy began as a stand-up comic before landing a dream job as a cast member on Saturday Night Live, despite his exceedingly young age. From the beloved sketch show, the actor/comedian skyrocketed to further fame with massive hits: Beverly Hills Cop, Trading Places, and The Nutty Professor, among others.
More than anything, the household name won critical admiration and audience devotion with his unmatchable blend of charisma and comedic timing. Coming to America remains a crowning jewel in his illustrious career.
As it packs its bags and prepares to depart Netflix, now is the time to (re)discover this comedic classic. Whether you’re doubled over laughing at the hilarious barbershop scenes, or rooting seriously for Akeem in his quest for love, Coming to America is sure to deliver.
