34 Facts About The Movie Coming To America

Eddie Murphy plays multiple roles

One of the standout features of “Coming to America” is Eddie Murphy’s incredible portrayal of not just one, but four different characters in the film. He plays the main character, Prince Akeem, as well as three other supporting characters, including Clarence the barber. This showcased Murphy’s versatility and comedic talent.

The movie was a box office success

Upon its release, “Coming to America” was a massive hit, grossing over $288 million worldwide. It became the highest-grossing comedy film of 1988 and cemented Eddie Murphy’s status as one of the biggest stars in Hollywood.

The film received critical acclaim

“Coming to America” was not only a financial success but also received positive reviews from critics. It was praised for its witty humor, memorable characters, and heartwarming storyline. The film currently holds a rating of 85% on Rotten Tomatoes.

The iconic McDowell’s restaurant

In the movie, Prince Akeem takes a job at McDowell’s, a fast-food restaurant that bears a striking resemblance to McDonald’s. The lure of McDowell’s and its hilarious fictional menu items, such as the “Big Mick,” became synonymous with the film.

The famous barbershop scenes

The barbershop scenes in “Coming to America” were some of the most memorable and comedic moments in the film. Eddie Murphy and Arsenio Hall played multiple characters in these scenes, engaging in hilarious banter and witty conversations.

The film features a star-studded cast

Aside from Eddie Murphy and Arsenio Hall, “Coming to America” boasts an impressive ensemble cast. It includes James Earl Jones, John Amos, Shari Headley, and a young Cuba Gooding Jr. This talented cast brought the story to life with their brilliant performances.

Akeem’s royal palace was a real mansion

The opulent royal palace where Prince Akeem resides in Zamunda is actually a mansion located in Bel-Air, California. The stunning estate served as the perfect backdrop for the fictional African kingdom.

Inspiration from Eddie Murphy’s life

Eddie Murphy drew inspiration from his own experiences for the storyline of “Coming to America.” He wanted to explore the concept of an African prince who ventures to America in search of true love, drawing on his own upbringing as the son of African immigrants.

The film features an iconic dance scene

One of the most memorable moments in the movie is the dance scene set to the hit song “The Bird” by The Time. Eddie Murphy and Arsenio Hall showcase their dancing skills, creating a fun and energetic sequence that has become iconic.

The film faced some controversy

“Coming to America” faced criticism from some African-American groups who believed it perpetuated stereotypes. However, Eddie Murphy defended the film, stating that it was intended to be a light-hearted comedy and not meant to offend.

Eddie Murphy’s makeup process

To transform into the various characters he played, Eddie Murphy would spend hours in the makeup chair. The process involved prosthetics and extensive makeup techniques to create the distinct looks for each role.

Cultural references throughout the film

Coming to America” is filled with cultural references and nods to various African traditions. This attention to detail adds depth to the story and showcases the filmmakers’ commitment to representing African culture.

Cameo appearances by famous celebrities

The film features several cameo appearances by well-known celebrities, including Samuel L. Jackson, who plays a robber, and Eriq La Salle, who portrays a fast-food employee. These surprise appearances added an extra layer of excitement for viewers.

The film’s impact on fashion

Coming to America” influenced fashion trends in the late 1980s and early 1990s. The elaborate and colorful African-inspired costumes showcased in the film inspired many designers and became a source of sartorial inspiration.

One-liners that became iconic

The movie is famous for its humorous and memorable one-liners. Lines such as “The royal penis is clean, your Highness” and “I’m gonna tear you apart!” have become part of pop culture and are still quoted by fans to this day.

The film’s soundtrack

Coming to America” features a memorable soundtrack, with songs by artists like The System, Sheena Easton, and Chaka Khan. The music adds to the overall enjoyment of the film and complements the story perfectly.

The film’s impact on the comedy genre

“Coming to America” had a significant impact on the comedy genre, inspiring future films that sought to combine humor with heartwarming storytelling. Its success paved the way for more diverse and culturally relevant comedies in Hollywood.

A sequel is in the works

After over three decades, fans of “Coming to America” were excited to learn that a sequel titled “Coming 2 America” is currently being developed. The sequel reunites Eddie Murphy and Arsenio Hall, promising to continue the beloved story.

The film’s memorable quotes

Coming to America” is filled with memorable quotes that have stood the test of time. From Prince Akeem’s sentiments on love to the comedic wisdom of the barbershop characters, these quotes have become a part of pop culture history.

The film’s positive portrayal of African culture

“Coming to America” was recognized for its positive portrayal of African culture, challenging common stereotypes associated with the continent. The film showcased a vibrant and wealthy African kingdom, presenting a refreshing narrative to audiences.

The film’s influence on future comedies

The success of “Coming to America” influenced the direction of future comedies, emphasizing the importance of diversity and representation. It paved the way for more inclusive storytelling in the genre and continues to inspire filmmakers today.

The infamous “Soul Glo” commercial

The film includes a fictional commercial for a hair product called “Soul Glo.” It spoofed the exaggerated and flashy nature of hair care ads at the time, providing a humorous interlude amidst the unfolding story.

The film’s impact on African-American cinema

“Coming to America” played a significant role in the representation of African-Americans in cinema. It showcased a successful black protagonist and challenged traditional stereotypes, opening doors for more varied and authentic portrayals on screen.

The film’s rewatch value

Even after 34 years, “Coming to America” remains highly rewatchable. Its timeless humor and engaging storyline continue to captivate audiences, making it a staple in the comedy genre.

Cultural significance of the film

“Coming to America” holds significant cultural importance as one of the first mainstream comedies to celebrate African and African-American culture. It highlighted the richness and diversity of African traditions and helped bridge cultural gaps.

The film’s impact on Eddie Murphy’s career

“Coming to America” further solidified Eddie Murphy’s status as a comedic genius and established him as one of the most influential actors of his time. The film showcased his versatility and comedic timing, paving the way for future successes.

The film’s portrayal of the immigrant experience

Coming to America” touched upon the immigrant experience through the character of Prince Akeem, who leaves his familiar world behind in search of a new life. It subtly explores themes of identity, assimilation, and cultural heritage.

The film’s enduring popularity

Through the years, “Coming to America” has maintained its popularity, garnering a loyal fanbase that spans across generations. Its timeless humor and relatable themes continue to resonate, making it a beloved classic.

The film’s influence on black cinema

“Coming to America” paved the way for more representation of black stories and talents in the film industry. It remains a touchstone for aspiring African-American filmmakers and serves as a reminder of the power of diverse storytelling.

The film’s impact on fashion

The film’s influence extended beyond the big screen and into the world of fashion. The vibrant and regal African-inspired costumes worn by the characters have inspired countless fashion designers and cultural influencers.

The film’s quotable lines

Coming to America” is a treasure trove of quotable lines that have permeated popular culture. From “Sexual Chocolate!” to “I believe the children are our future,” these lines have become synonymous with the film and are often referenced or imitated.

The film’s exploration of love and identity

Underneath the comedic surface, “Coming to America” explores universal themes of love and identity. It delves into the idea of following one’s heart and embracing one’s true self, resonating with audiences on a deeper level.

The film’s unique blend of comedy and heart

Coming to America” masterfully balances laugh-out-loud comedy with heartfelt moments. It seamlessly weaves together hilarious scenarios and touching character arcs, earning its place as a beloved and enduring film.

The film’s legacy

After more than three decades, “Coming to America” continues to be celebrated and loved by audiences worldwide. Its legacy as a groundbreaking comedy that celebrates African culture and highlights the talents of Eddie Murphy remains intact.

Conclusion

Coming to America is a timeless comedy that has captured the hearts of audiences for decades. With its hilarious script, memorable characters, and iconic moments, this film continues to be a fan favorite. The 34 facts we have explored about Coming to America provide a deeper understanding of the behind-the-scenes magic that went into the making of this classic movie.

From the incredible performances by Eddie Murphy, Arsenio Hall, and the talented ensemble cast, to the amazing costume designs and set pieces, Coming to America is a true cinematic masterpiece. Its powerful themes of love, family, and self-discovery resonate with viewers of all generations.

Whether you are a die-hard fan or a newcomer to the world of Coming to America, these facts offer a fascinating glimpse into the creative process and the incredible effort that was put into bringing this story to life. So sit back, relax, and enjoy a rewatch of this timeless comedy that will continue to entertain audiences for years to come.

FAQs

1. Who directed Coming to America?
Coming to America was directed by John Landis.

2. When was Coming to America released?
The movie was released on June 29, 1988.

3. Who stars in Coming to America?
Eddie Murphy, Arsenio Hall, James Earl Jones, and Shari Headley are some of the main stars in the film.

4. Where was Coming to America filmed?
Most of the movie was filmed in New York City, with some scenes shot in Los Angeles.

5. Is there a sequel to Coming to America?
Yes, a sequel titled “Coming 2 America” was released in 2021.

6. Did Eddie Murphy play multiple characters in the film?
Yes, Eddie Murphy portrayed multiple characters in Coming to America, including Prince Akeem, Randy Watson, and Saul.

7. What is the running time of Coming to America?
The running time of the film is approximately 116 minutes.

8. Did Coming to America receive any awards or nominations?
Yes, the film was nominated for two Academy Awards for Best Costume Design and Best Makeup.

9. Is Coming to America suitable for all ages?
While it is generally considered a family-friendly comedy, parental guidance is advised for younger viewers due to some mild language and suggestive content.

10. Does Coming to America have any memorable quotes?
Yes, there are several memorable quotes from the movie, such as “I want a woman that will arouse my intellect as well as my loins” and “The royal penis is clean, Your Highness.”