Coming to America
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In this episode of 'The Best Movies You've Never Seen,' hosts Stephen Fannick and Trevor Long revisit the 1988 comedy classic 'Coming to America,' starring Eddie Murphy, Arsenio Hall, and James Earl Jones. They explore the film's production history, including its rapid five-week development, the controversial past of director John Landis following the Vic Morrow accident, and the legal battles over alleged idea theft. The hosts highlight the film's enduring humor, its groundbreaking use of multiple roles by Murphy and Hall, and its surprisingly strong cultural relevance today. They discuss memorable scenes—from the royal morning rituals in Zamunda to the barbershop and basketball game sequences—and analyze the film’s themes of love versus tradition, authenticity, and identity. The episode also features deep dives into trivia, including reverse cameos by Samuel L. Jackson and Cuba Gooding Jr., callbacks to 'Trading Places,' and the use of the Marx Brothers' 'Duck Soup' anthem. Both hosts praise the film’s timelessness, with Stephen giving it an 8/10 and Trevor an 8.5/10, and look ahead to next week’s film, 'Anaconda.'
Eddie Murphy’s performance in multiple roles was inspired by Peter Sellers and helped define his comedic legacy.
The film’s portrayal of Zamunda is intentionally stylized and fairy-tale-like, not meant to be realistic.
Despite its age, 'Coming to America' holds up remarkably well with no major cringe or outdated content.
The movie features several reverse cameos—early appearances by future stars like Samuel L. Jackson and Cuba Gooding Jr.—that are now legendary.
The central theme of loving someone for who they are, not what they are, remains powerful and relevant.
…and 2 more takeaways available in PodZeus
Introduction and Hosts' First Impressions
The hosts introduce the podcast and set the stage for their deep dive into 'Coming to America,' sharing their initial reactions and expectations. Stephen reveals he hadn’t seen the full film before, while Trevor admits he knew only the basic plot.
Behind the Scenes: Production and Controversy
“Vic Morrow has a better chance of working with Landis than I do.”
The Characters and Performances
“He got out of the cart and said in his regular voice, hi, I'm Eddie Murphy, and no one believed that he was Eddie Murphy.”
Key Scenes and Cultural Impact
“We're happy to get the kind of money that jingles, but we'd rather get the kind that folds.”
The Climax and Emotional Payoff
“I renounce my throne. I am no longer the Prince of Zamunda. I renounce my throne. Everything's just crackers.”
“I renounce my throne. I am no longer the Prince of Zamunda. I renounce my throne. Everything's just crackers.”
“I don't give a damn who you are. I'll drop you like a bad habit.”
“Vic Morrow has a better chance of working with Landis than I do.”
Hosts
Eddie Murphy
person
Arsenio Hall
person
John Landis
person
James Earl Jones
person
David Sheffield
person
Barry Blaustein
person
McDowell's
brand
McDonald's
brand
John Amos
person
Paramount Pictures
organization
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