Eddie Murphy has been a comedy icon for decades, known for his sharp wit, infectious energy, and unforgettable characters. This collection showcases ten of his finest comedic performances, each with a unique British twist, offering a delightful blend of laughter and cultural charm for fans across the pond.

Trading Places (1983)
Description: This film, where Murphy plays a street hustler who switches lives with a wealthy stockbroker, has a timeless appeal with its social commentary and humor, which British viewers find both entertaining and thought-provoking.
Fact: The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay.


Beverly Hills Cop (1984)
Description: Eddie Murphy's breakout role as Axel Foley, a street-smart Detroit cop in the glitzy world of Beverly Hills, showcases his comedic timing and charm, which resonates with British audiences who appreciate a good fish-out-of-water story.
Fact: The film was initially offered to Sylvester Stallone, but he turned it down, leading to Murphy's iconic performance.


The Golden Child (1986)
Description: Mixing comedy with adventure, this film sees Murphy as a social worker tasked with saving a mystical child, a premise that has a certain charm for British audiences who enjoy a blend of genres.
Fact: The film was one of the first to use extensive computer-generated imagery.


Coming to America (1988)
Description: This film is a classic example of Eddie Murphy's versatility, playing multiple roles in this tale of an African prince seeking love in New York. Its British appeal lies in the universal themes of love and identity, making it a beloved comedy on both sides of the Atlantic.
Fact: The film's sequel was released in 2021, and it features a cameo by Arsenio Hall, who also played multiple characters in the original.


Harlem Nights (1989)
Description: Set in the 1930s, this film showcases Murphy's comedic talents alongside legends like Richard Pryor, offering a nostalgic look at Harlem's nightlife, which has a universal appeal, including in Britain.
Fact: This was the only film Eddie Murphy directed.


The Nutty Professor (1996)
Description: Murphy's transformation into multiple characters, including the lovable Professor Klump, provides endless laughs. The British audience enjoys the slapstick comedy and the heartwarming story of self-acceptance.
Fact: Eddie Murphy won a Golden Globe for his performance in this film.


Norbit (2007)
Description: Although not universally loved, this film's portrayal of multiple characters by Murphy, including the over-the-top Rasputia, offers a unique brand of humor that some British viewers find amusingly outrageous.
Fact: The character of Rasputia was inspired by a real person Murphy knew.


Life (1999)
Description: This buddy comedy-drama with Murphy and Martin Lawrence explores themes of friendship and injustice, offering both laughs and poignant moments, which resonate with British viewers who appreciate depth in their comedies.
Fact: The film was shot in several locations, including the historic town of Natchez, Mississippi.


Bowfinger (1999)
Description: Murphy's dual role as both a paranoid movie star and a struggling actor in this satire on Hollywood is a testament to his comedic range, appreciated by British audiences for its clever take on the film industry.
Fact: The film was directed by Frank Oz, known for his work with the Muppets.


Dr. Dolittle (1998)
Description: Murphy's portrayal of a doctor who can communicate with animals brings joy and laughter, with its British charm coming from the whimsical nature of the story, reminiscent of British children's literature.
Fact: The film was a box office success, leading to several sequels.
