In this 1988 film, John Landis directs one of the most hilarious and well reviewed romantic comedies of that year. His ability to direct lead actor Eddie Murphy and co-star Arsineo Hall throughout their many different character performances was brilliant. Each scene performance was consistent from start to finish. What director in their right mind could even consider not directing this movie with an all star cast and support through out the industry? John's purpose was to create a cult comedy classic which is exactly what this movie is. .
Assortments of humorist Eddie Murphy's skills were revealed in this film. He played at least 4 separate characters ranging from a sheltered young Prince of Zemunda (Akiem) to an incredibly witty Jewish senior citizen (Saul). The plot of a young man leaving his home to find love made a bold statement and brought reality to the term "all that glitters isn't gold." Akiem was encouraged with the belief that having a wife with her own "likes and dislikes" was far more important than just someone to have sex with. Arsineo Hall portrayed 4 separate characters as well; however, I felt that some of his characters were over acted for the comedic value only. If he were to have toned down just a bit; more of the actual "comedy" would have really come through. The rest of the supporting cast worked wonderfully together to make a believable flowing family type atmosphere. Additional cameos played by Samuel L. Jackson and Cuba Gooding Jr. bring a current credibility and freshness to the film that works well throughout the picture. .
I enjoyed the dialogue between the characters because it was representative of what the average Joe would be capable of following. No heavy plots or disguised sub-plots to figure out subliminally. Within the first 5-minutes of the movie the writers (Barry W. Blaustein, David Sheffield and Eddie Murphy) had exposed the whole scheme of the main character but getting through it all is what kept the script entertaining and funny.