Arrival in America (Coming to America) is a 1988 American romantic comedy film directed by John Landis from a screenplay by Eddie Murphy, David Sheffield, and Barry Blaustein. The film was released in the United States on June 29, 1988.
The movie "„Arrival in America“" is one of the biggest hits of Eddie Murphy's career and has become one of the iconic comedies of the 1980s. Combining romance, culture clashes, and Murphy's signature humor, the production gained immense popularity and maintained its status as a classic decades after its premiere.
Prince Akim Joffre is heir to the throne of the wealthy African kingdom Zamunda. Although he lives in luxury and has everything he could wish for, the young prince is not happy with the fact that his family has chosen his future wife over him. Determined to find true love on his own, Akim leaves his homeland with his best friend and assistant Sammy. The two travel to New York and settle in the borough of Queens, where the prince poses as an ordinary immigrant in order to find a woman who will love him for who he is, and not for his wealth and title. Akim soon meets the beautiful and intelligent Lisa McDowell, the daughter of a local restaurateur. While trying to win her heart, he must keep his true identity a secret, which leads to a number of comical situations and misunderstandings.
John Landis creates a fun and fast-paced comedy that skillfully blends romantic elements with the typical 1980s comedic style. The film uses the contrast between the luxurious life of an African prince and the harsh reality of working-class New York to create many memorable comedic moments. The director maintains a light and pleasant tone throughout, while telling a story about love, personal choices, and the desire to be valued for your character, not your social status.
Eddie Murphy is in excellent form as Prince Akim. In addition to the lead role, he also plays several supporting characters under heavy makeup, demonstrating his comedic versatility and talent for incarnations.
Arsenio Hall also plays several different roles and is a great partner for Murphy. The chemistry between the two is one of the film's strongest points and contributes to much of the humor.
Shari Headley is charming like Lisa McDowell, and James Earl Jones and Madge Sinclair give dignity and authority to Akim's royal parents. Memorable appearances also include John Amos, Louis Anderson, Samuel L. Jackson and Kelvin Lockhart.
„Arrival in America“" is one of the most beloved comedies of its generation. The film combines a charming love story, cultural humor and Eddie Murphy's brilliant comedic presence in a production that continues to entertain new generations of viewers. With its colorful characters, memorable lines and heartfelt message about love and personal choice, the film remains among the classic American comedies and one of the most successful titles in Eddie Murphy's career.
