Movie Review: Coming to America (1988)
- Joao Nsita
- Dec 25, 2024
- 5 min read
Introduction
Coming to America (1988), directed by John Landis, is a timeless comedy classic that showcases Eddie Murphy at the peak of his comedic prowess. Set against the backdrop of the glitzy 1980s, the film tells the story of Prince Akeem Joffer, a sheltered African prince from the fictional kingdom of Zamunda, who travels to Queens, New York, to find true love. Packed with humor, heart, and unforgettable performances, Coming to America explores themes of identity, love, and cultural discovery while delivering a parade of laughs.
Plot Summary
Prince Akeem (Eddie Murphy), dissatisfied with the arranged marriage planned for him, persuades his father, King Jaffe Joffer (James Earl Jones), to let him travel abroad to find a wife who will love him for who he is, not his royal title. Accompanied by his loyal and hilariously overindulgent aide, Semmi (Arsenio Hall), Akeem heads to Queens, New York, believing it to be the ideal place to meet a "real" woman.
Posing as a humble foreign student, Akeem takes a job at a fast-food restaurant owned by Cleo McDowell (John Amos) and falls for Cleo's daughter, Lisa (Shari Headley). However, winning Lisa’s heart proves challenging, as Akeem navigates cultural misunderstandings, jealous rivals, and his own hidden identity.
Themes and Storytelling
At its core, Coming to America is a fish-out-of-water story that explores the clash of cultures and the pursuit of true love. The film cleverly juxtaposes the opulence of Zamunda with the gritty, bustling streets of Queens, highlighting Akeem's journey of self-discovery and his desire to find authenticity in a world of pretense.
The screenplay by David Sheffield and Barry W. Blaustein is sharp, balancing laugh-out-loud moments with touching scenes of genuine connection. The film’s satire of wealth, privilege, and societal norms remains relevant, offering humor with an undercurrent of introspection.
Performances
Eddie Murphy delivers a standout performance as Prince Akeem, showcasing his comedic timing, charisma, and knack for playing multiple roles. Akeem’s earnestness and idealism make him a likable protagonist, while Murphy’s transformation into other eccentric characters—such as Randy Watson and Clarence, the barbershop owner—demonstrates his unparalleled versatility.
Arsenio Hall complements Murphy perfectly as Semmi, bringing his own comedic flair to the role while also taking on multiple characters, including Reverend Brown and Morris, another barbershop regular. Their dynamic as Akeem and Semmi is a comedic highlight, filled with banter and situational humor.
Shari Headley brings warmth and strength to the role of Lisa, making her more than just a love interest. James Earl Jones and Madge Sinclair, as Akeem’s regal parents, add gravitas to the film, while John Amos provides humor as the overprotective McDowell patriarch.
Visuals and Direction
John Landis’s direction masterfully balances the comedic and romantic elements of the story. The lavish depictions of Zamunda, complete with extravagant costumes and ornate sets, contrast beautifully with the gritty realism of Queens. Costume designer Deborah Nadoolman Landis deserves special praise for creating iconic outfits, particularly Akeem’s royal garb and the elaborate wedding attire.
The film’s cinematography enhances the storytelling, from the grand, sweeping shots of Zamunda to the intimate, character-driven moments in New York. The vibrant color palette and attention to detail in set design further enrich the film’s world-building.
Strengths and Critiques
One of Coming to America’s greatest strengths is its humor. The film is packed with memorable one-liners, absurd situations, and laugh-out-loud character moments. Murphy and Hall’s ability to play multiple characters adds a layer of unpredictability and fun, making each scene a joy to watch.
However, some critics have noted that certain elements of the humor feel dated by today’s standards, and the film occasionally leans into stereotypes for comedic effect. While the movie largely succeeds in its lighthearted approach, a few jokes may not resonate as well with modern audiences.
Legacy and Impact
Coming to America has earned its place as a cultural touchstone, beloved for its humor, performances, and celebration of Black excellence. The film’s depiction of a fictional African kingdom as prosperous and dignified was groundbreaking at the time, offering a refreshing counterpoint to Hollywood’s often one-dimensional portrayals of Africa.
Its enduring popularity led to a sequel, Coming 2 America (2021), which revisits the characters decades later. The original remains a staple of 1980s cinema, influencing countless comedies and solidifying Eddie Murphy’s legacy as one of the greatest comedic actors of his generation.
Conclusion
Coming to America is a feel-good comedy that continues to charm audiences with its wit, heart, and unforgettable characters. Eddie Murphy’s magnetic performance, combined with a stellar supporting cast and a sharp, funny script, ensures the film’s place as a classic. Whether you’re revisiting it for nostalgia or watching it for the first time, Coming to America is a cinematic experience that celebrates love, culture, and the humor in human connections.
FAQs About Coming to America
Q: Is Coming to America suitable for all ages?A: The film is rated R for language and some mature humor, making it best suited for older teens and adults.
Q: Who directed Coming to America?A: The movie was directed by John Landis, known for other classics like Animal House and Trading Places.
Q: What is the main theme of the movie?A: The film explores themes of love, cultural identity, and the clash between authenticity and pretense.
Q: Who are the standout characters in the film?A: Prince Akeem (Eddie Murphy) and Semmi (Arsenio Hall) are the main characters, but Murphy and Hall also shine in their additional roles as various eccentric characters.
Q: Where was Coming to America filmed?A: The movie was primarily filmed in New York City, with some scenes set in a fictionalized African kingdom.
Q: What makes Coming to America a classic?A: Its blend of humor, heart, and cultural celebration, along with Eddie Murphy’s standout performance, makes it a beloved comedy classic.
Q: Is there a sequel to Coming to America?A: Yes, the sequel, Coming 2 America, was released in 2021 and follows Akeem’s journey as he discovers he has a son in Queens.
Q: What makes Eddie Murphy’s performance special in this film?A: Murphy’s versatility in playing multiple characters, combined with his comedic timing and charm, makes his performance unforgettable.
Q: How was the fictional kingdom of Zamunda portrayed?A: Zamunda is depicted as a wealthy and dignified kingdom, breaking away from stereotypical depictions of Africa in Hollywood films.
Q: What is the significance of the film’s title?A: The title highlights Prince Akeem’s journey to America to find true love and discover himself.
Additional Reading and Resources
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Romance Community Resources
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