Watch Norbit: Unpacking Eddie Murphy's Hilarious Triple Threat
For anyone looking to dive into a unique blend of slapstick comedy, heartfelt romance, and a dash of the absurd, to watch Norbit is to experience Eddie Murphy at his versatile best. This 2007 comedy, directed by Brian Robbins, stands out in Murphy's extensive filmography for its audacious character portrayals and its surprisingly sweet core narrative. It's a film that has garnered both fervent fans and critical debate, but one thing is undeniable: it leaves a lasting impression.
The journey of Norbit Albert Rice, a mild-mannered man caught in a truly challenging predicament, is one that resonates with themes of self-discovery, true love, and overcoming overwhelming obstacles. From his tumultuous childhood to his desperate quest for happiness, Norbit's story is a rollercoaster of emotions, punctuated by moments of genuine hilarity. If you're curious about the film's premise, its unforgettable characters, or simply wondering how and where to watch Norbit, this comprehensive guide will provide all the insights you need.
Table of Contents
- The Enduring Appeal of Norbit (2007)
- Who is Norbit? A Deep Dive into the Character and Plot
- Eddie Murphy's Masterclass: Portraying Multiple Roles
- Beyond the Laughter: Themes and Controversies in Norbit
- Meet the Cast: Beyond Eddie Murphy
- How to Watch Norbit (2007) Online
- The Legacy of Norbit: A Cult Classic or Misunderstood Comedy?
The Enduring Appeal of Norbit (2007)
Released in 2007, *Norbit* quickly became a talking point, primarily due to Eddie Murphy's audacious decision to play three distinct and vastly different characters: the titular Norbit, his overbearing wife Rasputia, and the wise, elderly Chinese restaurant owner, Mr. Wong. This triple-threat performance alone is a compelling reason to watch Norbit. The film, at its heart, is a romantic comedy, albeit one wrapped in layers of outrageous physical comedy and character-driven humor. It explores the life of a timid man who, after being bullied into marriage and intimidated by a boisterous wife, shy bookkeeper Norbit gets a chance at true love when he reunites with his childhood crush. The movie's appeal lies in its ability to push comedic boundaries while maintaining a surprisingly sweet and relatable narrative about finding one's voice and pursuing genuine happiness. Despite its often polarizing reception, *Norbit* has carved out a niche as a memorable, if unconventional, entry in the comedy genre. Its enduring presence on streaming platforms and its continued discussion among film enthusiasts speak volumes about its unique charm and the unforgettable performances at its core.Who is Norbit? A Deep Dive into the Character and Plot
At the center of this comedic whirlwind is Norbit Albert Rice, a character designed to evoke both sympathy and laughter. Murphy stars as mild-mannered Norbit, a man whose life has been anything but easy, largely due to the overwhelming influence of one dominant figure: Rasputia Latimore.Norbit's Early Life and Rasputia's Influence
The film traces Norbit's life from his infancy, abandoned at a Chinese orphanage run by the stern but caring Mr. Wong. Later in life, Norbit is now in elementary school, and is not very popular. It's during these formative years that his path irrevocably crosses with Rasputia. Upon being bullied, Norbit is saved by a very controlling girl named Rasputia Latimore (also played by Murphy), who decides to make Norbit her new boyfriend. This act of "rescue" quickly morphs into a lifelong saga of control and intimidation. Rasputia, a physically imposing and emotionally dominant figure, essentially takes Norbit under her wing, but it's a wing that clips his own. As they grow older, their relationship solidifies into an arrangement where Norbit is completely subservient to Rasputia. Eventually, Rasputia and Norbit are married, giving her more control than ever over Norbit. His life becomes a series of compromises and concessions, with Rasputia dictating every aspect, from his daily routine to his career as a bookkeeper. Recently forced to marry the shrewish glutton Rasputia, he is at wit's end. This setup provides the foundation for the film's central conflict and much of its humor, as Norbit navigates a life where he is constantly intimidated by his boisterous wife.A Second Chance at Love: Kate's Return
The narrative takes a pivotal turn with the re-entry of Kate Thomas (Thandie Newton) into Norbit's life. Kate is Norbit's childhood sweetheart, a beacon of kindness and genuine affection from his past. When she moves back to town, Norbit's dormant hopes for true love are reignited. He sees in Kate a chance for the happiness and freedom he's always craved but never experienced. Bullied into marriage and intimidated by a boisterous wife, shy bookkeeper Norbit gets a chance at true love when he reunites with his childhood crush. This reunion sets Norbit on a path to figure out a way back to his true love, a quest that forms the emotional core of the film. Kate represents everything Rasputia is not: gentle, understanding, and genuinely caring. Their rekindled connection highlights the stark contrast between Norbit's past and the potential for a brighter future. The film masterfully uses this contrast to drive both its comedic moments and its underlying message about self-worth and the pursuit of happiness.The Obstacles to True Love
However, obstacles may make this romance slightly more difficult than expected. The path to Norbit and Kate's happiness is fraught with challenges, primarily embodied by Rasputia and her menacing brothers. Rasputia, unwilling to relinquish her control over Norbit, becomes the ultimate antagonist, using every means at her disposal to thwart his attempts at freedom and romance. But there’s one huge obstacle. Can Norbit win the heart of Kate… before Rasputia put the hurt on him? These obstacles provide the film with its dramatic tension and much of its over-the-top action sequences. Norbit, initially timid, must find the courage to stand up for himself and fight for the love he deserves. This journey of self-empowerment, set against the backdrop of Rasputia's outrageous antics, makes *Norbit* more than just a simple comedy; it's a story of liberation and finding one's true self.Eddie Murphy's Masterclass: Portraying Multiple Roles
No discussion of *Norbit* would be complete without a deep dive into Eddie Murphy's incredible performance. Murphy stars as mild-mannered Norbit, but his genius truly shines in his portrayal of Rasputia Latimore and Mr. Wong. This isn't the first time Murphy has taken on multiple roles in a single film (think *The Nutty Professor* or *Coming to America*), but *Norbit* pushes the boundaries of his transformative abilities. As Norbit, Murphy embodies meekness and vulnerability, conveying the character's long-suffering nature with a quiet sincerity that makes his eventual stand all the more impactful. His physical comedy as Norbit, particularly when interacting with Rasputia, is expertly executed, conveying both fear and a glimmer of hope. Then there's Rasputia. This character is a force of nature, a larger-than-life personality brought to life through a combination of prosthetics, a fat suit, and Murphy's unparalleled comedic timing and vocalizations. Rasputia is loud, aggressive, and utterly dominant, a stark contrast to Norbit. Murphy's ability to fully inhabit this character, complete with distinct mannerisms and a booming voice, is a testament to his comedic range. It's a performance that is both hilarious and, at times, surprisingly menacing. Finally, Mr. Wong, the elderly, wise, and often sarcastic owner of the orphanage and later the local Chinese restaurant, completes Murphy's trio of characters. This portrayal is more understated than Rasputia but equally effective. Mr. Wong provides a grounding presence and some of the film's more subtle, yet sharp, comedic lines. His dry wit and sage advice offer a counterpoint to the film's more boisterous elements. The seamless transitions between these characters, often in the same scene, showcase Murphy's unparalleled talent. It's a masterclass in comedic acting and character creation, making the decision to watch Norbit a must for fans of his work and anyone interested in the art of comedic transformation.Beyond the Laughter: Themes and Controversies in Norbit
While *Norbit* is undeniably a comedy, it also delves into several underlying themes that give it more depth than a superficial viewing might suggest. At its core, the film explores the theme of self-worth and finding the courage to break free from oppressive relationships. Norbit's journey from a timid, bullied individual to someone willing to fight for his happiness is a powerful narrative, albeit presented through a comedic lens. It touches on the idea that true love can be a catalyst for personal growth and empowerment. Another significant theme is the nature of true love versus forced relationships. Norbit's marriage to Rasputia is born out of intimidation and control, starkly contrasted with his genuine, innocent affection for Kate. This juxtaposition highlights the difference between a relationship based on fear and one built on mutual respect and affection. However, *Norbit* also faced its share of controversies, primarily regarding its use of fat suits and racial stereotypes. Some critics argued that the portrayal of Rasputia perpetuated negative stereotypes about overweight individuals, while Mr. Wong's character drew criticism for its potentially stereotypical depiction of an Asian man. These criticisms sparked debates about the line between satire and insensitivity in comedy. Despite these debates, the film's supporters often argue that the characters, particularly Rasputia, are caricatures designed for comedic effect, and that Murphy's performance transcends simple stereotypes by creating fully realized, albeit exaggerated, personalities. The film's intent, they argue, was to entertain and tell a story of overcoming adversity, not to demean any particular group. These discussions add another layer to the film's legacy, making it a subject of continued interest and analysis.Meet the Cast: Beyond Eddie Murphy
While Eddie Murphy's multi-faceted performance is the undeniable centerpiece of *Norbit*, the film also features a talented ensemble cast that contributes significantly to its comedic and emotional impact. **Thandie Newton as Kate Thomas:** Newton brings a graceful and empathetic presence to the role of Norbit's childhood sweetheart. Her performance provides the necessary emotional anchor for the film, making Kate a believable and lovable character who inspires Norbit's transformation. **Terry Crews as Buster:** Crews plays one of Rasputia's intimidating brothers, Buster. Known for his muscular physique and comedic timing, Crews delivers a memorable performance as a menacing yet often comically inept enforcer for his sister. **Eddie Griffin as Pope Sweet Jesus:** Griffin adds another layer of comedic absurdity as Pope Sweet Jesus, a pimp and former acquaintance of Norbit. His flamboyant character and sharp wit provide some of the film's most quotable lines and outlandish scenarios. **Cuba Gooding Jr. as Deion Hughes:** Gooding Jr. portrays Kate's fiancé, Deion, a seemingly charming but ultimately superficial and opportunistic character. His presence adds another obstacle to Norbit's pursuit of Kate, creating a classic romantic comedy rivalry. The collective performances of this cast, under Brian Robbins' direction, create a vibrant and often chaotic world that Norbit must navigate. Their interactions with Murphy's various characters are crucial to the film's humor and narrative progression.Eddie Murphy: Biography and Personal Data
Eddie Murphy is an iconic American actor, comedian, writer, producer, and singer. He rose to fame in the early 1980s as a cast member on the NBC sketch comedy show *Saturday Night Live* and went on to establish a successful career in stand-up comedy, earning critical acclaim for his specials *Delirious* (1983) and *Raw* (1987). He quickly transitioned to film, becoming one of Hollywood's highest-grossing actors with a string of box office hits including *48 Hrs.*, *Beverly Hills Cop*, *Coming to America*, *The Nutty Professor*, and *Shrek*. Murphy's ability to transform into multiple characters within a single film, often through extensive prosthetics, became a signature element of his comedic style. He has received numerous accolades, including a Golden Globe Award for Best Actor in a Comedy or Musical for *Dreamgirls* (2006) and the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor in 2015. | Personal Data | Details
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