Top 5 Eddie Murphy Movies According To Rotten Tomatoes
Alright, let's talk about a guy who practically invented the sound of laughter for a generation: the one and only Eddie Murphy! This dude's been making us snort-giggle, belly-laugh, and sometimes even shed a tear (usually from laughing too hard) for decades. From his days on Saturday Night Live to becoming a bona fide movie star, Eddie’s got a way of making even the silliest stories feel like pure gold. But with so many classics, how do you pick the best? Well, we’ve done some digging, and according to the folks at Rotten Tomatoes – the movie critics’ super-scorekeeper – here are the top 5 Eddie Murphy movies that’ll have you reaching for the remote.
The Number 5 Pick: The Nutty Professor (1996)
Okay, imagine this: a super-smart, super-lovable but super-awkward science professor named Sherman Klump. He's a genius, but he's also, well, let's just say he's got a few extra pounds. He invents a miracle potion that makes him thin and irresistibly charming, but it also creates a whole other personality – the arrogant, lady-killing, smoothie-sipping Buddy Love. The hilarious chaos that ensues as Sherman tries to keep Buddy in check is pure Eddie. He plays both characters, and it's a masterclass in physical comedy and quick-witted dialogue. You’ll be rooting for the sweet Sherman, but you’ll secretly love the outrageousness of Buddy. Plus, the makeup? Absolutely groundbreaking for its time, making the Klump family feel so real (and so, so funny!). It’s a movie that proves even our flaws can lead to something amazing, and maybe a little bit of hilarious disaster.
The Number 4 Pick: Coming to America (1988)
This one’s a royal treat! Prince Akeem (played by Eddie, of course) is tired of his pampered life in the fictional African nation of Zamunda. He wants true love, not an arranged marriage. So, what does a prince do? He packs his bags, heads to Queens, New York, and pretends to be a broke student looking for a wife. The culture clash is epic! He and his loyal aide, Semmi (Arsenio Hall, who is a legend in his own right), try to navigate the streets of Queens with hilariously out-of-touch royal manners. From working at a fast-food joint called "McDowell's" (which looks suspiciously like McDonald's) to hitting on unsuspecting women with his royal charm, it's a laugh riot. But beneath all the jokes, there's a sweet story about finding love and staying true to yourself. And let's not forget the multiple characters Eddie plays in this one – the barbershop guys are iconic!
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The Number 3 Pick: Shrek (2001)
Who knew an ogre could be so lovable? In this animated masterpiece, Eddie Murphy lends his incredible voice to the one and only Donkey. He's the fast-talking, slightly annoying, but utterly loyal sidekick to Shrek, a grumpy ogre who just wants some peace and quiet. Donkey’s energy is infectious, and his friendship with Shrek is the heart of the movie. He’s the comic relief that keeps you giggling through Shrek's grumbles and his quest to rescue Princess Fiona. Shrek flipped the fairy tale on its head, and Donkey was the perfect, cheerful guide through all the unexpected twists. It’s a movie that’s funny for kids and has a clever wit that adults absolutely adore. Donkey's singing alone is worth the price of admission!
The Number 2 Pick: 48 Hrs. (1982)
This is where a young, raw, and undeniably hilarious Eddie Murphy burst onto the big screen. He plays Reggie Hammond, a street-smart convict who’s given a chance at freedom – but only if he helps a tough, no-nonsense cop named Jack Cates (Nick Nolte) track down two dangerous fugitives. They've only got 48 hours to get the job done, and the two couldn't be more different. The chemistry between Murphy and Nolte is electric, filled with witty banter and some truly groundbreaking buddy-cop action. Reggie's quick comebacks and his ability to charm his way out of any situation are pure Eddie genius. It’s a classic for a reason, showing off his incredible talent for comedy and his surprisingly sharp acting chops from the get-go. You’ll be on the edge of your seat, but you’ll be laughing the whole way.
The Number 1 Pick: Beverly Hills Cop (1984)
And the crown jewel, the movie that cemented Eddie Murphy as a global superstar: Beverly Hills Cop! He plays Axel Foley, a wise-cracking, rule-bending Detroit detective who heads to sunny, glamorous Beverly Hills to investigate the murder of his best friend. The contrast between Axel’s street smarts and the uptight, by-the-book cops of Beverly Hills is comedy gold. He’s charming, he’s hilarious, and he’s got an amazing talent for getting under people’s skin while still somehow getting what he wants. From his iconic banana-in-the-tailpipe trick to his smooth talk in fancy art galleries, Axel Foley is the ultimate anti-hero. This movie is pure fun, packed with unforgettable one-liners and a killer soundtrack. It’s the kind of movie that makes you wish you could be just a little bit more like Axel Foley – cool, confident, and always ready with a joke.
So there you have it! Five fantastic films that showcase the undeniable talent of Eddie Murphy. Whether he's playing a prince, a professor, a talking donkey, or a loose-cannon detective, Eddie has a gift for making us laugh until our sides hurt. These movies aren't just funny; they're classics that have stood the test of time, proving that when it comes to comedy, Eddie Murphy is, and always will be, the king!
