1 out of 5 stars
As Hollywood is doing all that it can to resurrect the 1980’s, there was little surprise that the comedic superstar of that era would follow suit. Eddie Murphy was a force on the comedy circuit, on television and in theatres during this decade. He was a tour de force that seemed to have the Midas touch in cinemas throughout the decade and one of his surprise hits was Coming to America. As Prince Akeem of Zamunda, his character travelled to America to find his queen with his best friend and aide, Semmi (Arsenio Hall). This film began the subsequent introduction of Murphy’s alter egos as the supporting cast. An element he would use to define his movies for many years to follow.
Now we find ourselves in 2021 and the world has changed. Filmmakers are trying to ply their trade in a hyper-sensitive era where cultural indiscretions are intensely scrutinised. This socially charged filter makes the original film from Murphy seem dated and out-of-touch in this modern era. This puts a cloud of doubt over this sequel as it looks to capitalise on the same type of comedy that could cause the cancel culture patrol to break Twitter with their protests. Yet, Murphy and company still decided to revisit this storyline after three decades and do all they can to resuscitate these comedians' careers while riding the decade's nostalgic wave that included legwarmers and Reaganomics.
After 30 years, Zamunda has managed to thrive under the leadership of King Jaffe Joffer (James Earl Jones), but he must pass on his mantle to his son as his health fails. Prince Akeem is beloved by the country’s people and has proven to be a popular choice for leadership, but he suffers from one weakness. He and his wife have only produced three daughters and the centuries-old laws state that he must have a male heir to take up the throne. Even though his daughters prove to have strong leadership abilities, Akeem feels the pressure to find a solution to accommodate the country's laws.
While he discusses this challenge with his father and aides, a local witch doctor makes him aware of an unknown son that Akeem sired while on his previous trip to the US. He and Semmi decide to travel back to Queens to find this son and determine if he is the answer to his African nation's familial dilemma. Luvell Junson (Jermaine Fowler) has lived a life of hustling for all he has in life by working various jobs to help his family make ends meet. When he is made aware of his birthright and title, he eventually comes to terms with the opportunity and moves to Zamunda with his mother, Mary (Leslie Jones).
Their move causes quite a stir within the family and the nation’s people. Still, it does seem to offer a solution to the antiquated law of the land. After King Jaffe Joffer passes away, the real test comes to the newly appointed king. General Izzi (Wesley Snipes), the local warlord from Nextdoria, tries to arrange a marriage between the newest member of the Zamunda family with his daughter. King Azeem must determine if this proposal is worthwhile for his realm's peace and decide whether he has chosen the best future leader for his nation.
It is a wonder to whom this film was meant to appeal. There is a nostalgic element for those who can remember seeing Murphy and Hall working at McDowell's restaurant. Then there is always the Eddie Murphy fans who pine for his glory days when he could do more than provide the voice of an animated donkey. Yet, it is difficult to justify why this sequel was even made. There cannot be too many people hoping to see this franchise being brought back to life. It was no wonder that Paramount decided to sell this off to Amazon as opposed to releasing it in cinemas.
Everything about Coming 2 America manages to fulfil the fears that were brought on by the trailers. The story is outdated and fails to translate into this modern era without causing some level of offence. You do not need to be overly sensitive to gender and racial issues' current political messaging to see that this humour is more cringe-worthy than funny. It serves as an example of how our sensibilities have changed and tastes have matured if it does anything. This leaves the viewer feeling sorry for these comedic kings of yesteryear as they try to resurrect their comedic careers. We have moved on and can only hope they can find something fresh and different to consider for their abilities to make people laugh.
Reel Dialogue: What is your legacy?
If there is a redeeming discussion point in this film it does fall onto the topic of legacy.
Akeem must come to terms with how to define his legacy in a modern era. Instead of being defined by laws and tradition, the king of Zamunda must determine how he will change things. Despite the predictable nature of the screenplay, it does cause one to think about how our legacies are established.
Are we merely defined by the memories and people you leave behind? There must be more. Leaving a legacy involves far more than money, pleasant memories or a good name. Why? It only takes one or two generations and those things will disappear or be forgotten.
Not to diminish the value of relationships or caring for your family's future, but the only real legacy that holds up into eternity is the one with God. Within the Christian tradition, this can only be found with belief in Jesus Christ as the Son of the Living God and Saviour of the world. This is genuinely the only legacy that lasts.
Maybe you disagree. Yet, why not take a moment to consider it. It cannot hurt to explore the idea of living and leaving behind a real legacy for your family.
An excellent place to start: Check out this talk by Dr Sam Chan on Extraordinary Legacy
