Eddie Murphy Coming to America remains a beloved film decades after its release, now available to stream for free on Tubi. The 1988 comedy, starring Murphy as Prince Akeem, showcases his versatility as both a comedian and romantic lead, drawing continued attention as it re-enters the streaming charts in the U.S.
A Classic Comedy Resurfaces Among Top Streaming Films
Eddie Murphy has long been celebrated as one of Hollywood’s most influential comedic actors, with an impressive career that includes iconic roles like Donkey in the Shrek series and appearances in recent projects such as Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F on Netflix. His peak during the 1980s was marked by a string of successful movies, none more enduring than Coming to America, which has recently gained fresh popularity on the streaming platform Tubi. At the time of writing, the film ranks among the top ten most-viewed titles on the service in the U.S., sharing space with other notable films like The Rundown, Tango & Cash, Goodfellas, Scarface, and The Fifth Element.
The film’s success is reflected in its strong critical reception, holding a 73% approval rating from critics and an 85% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes, confirming its lasting appeal across generations. Coming to America tells the story of a foreign prince seeking genuine love, providing audiences with humor, romance, and memorable performances.
“Prince Akeem (Eddie Murphy) is the prince of a wealthy African country and wants for nothing, except a wife who will love him in spite of his title. To escape an arranged marriage, Akeem flees to America accompanied by his persnickety sidekick, Semmi (Arsenio Hall), to find his queen. Disguised as a foreign student working in fast food, he romances Lisa (Shari Headley), but struggles with revealing his true identity to her and his marital intentions to his king father (James Earl Jones).” – Synopsis
Box Office Triumph: How ‘Coming to America’ Made Its Mark
Upon release, Coming to America was not only praised by critics but also enjoyed substantial commercial success. Despite a production budget of $36 million, the film grossed an impressive $288.8 million worldwide. This revenue included $128.1 million from domestic audiences and a further $160.7 million internationally, securing its position as the third-highest-grossing film globally for 1988. Only Who Framed Roger Rabbit and Rain Man outperformed it that year, finishing second and first respectively at the box office.
This financial achievement helped solidify Eddie Murphy’s status as a box-office draw and demonstrated that comedies with heart and charm could compete on a global scale. The film’s availability for free streaming today allows new viewers to experience what made it a standout of its era.
Memorable Characters and Standout Performances
One of the film’s distinguishing features is Eddie Murphy’s portrayal of several characters, highlighting his comedic range. Aside from Prince Akeem, Murphy also takes on roles such as Clarence, Randy Watson, and Saul, each bringing humor and energy to the story. His co-star Arsenio Hall similarly displays versatility, playing Semmi, Reverend Brown, Morris, and an extremely ugly girl, creating dynamic interactions that enrich the narrative.
The supporting cast includes Shari Headley as Lisa, the love interest who challenges Akeem to reveal his true self, and James Earl Jones as the king father, whose expectations drive much of the plot. Their performances add depth to the story about identity, love, and cultural clashes, making Coming to America resonate beyond its comedic surface.
The Film’s Enduring Impact and Current Appeal
More than three decades after its debut, Coming to America continues to captivate audiences, blending humor with a heartfelt storyline. Its renewed presence on streaming platforms allows longtime fans and newcomers alike to enjoy Eddie Murphy’s performance and the film’s timeless charm. In today’s entertainment landscape, where nostalgia often drives viewership, this classic comedy stands as a testament to Murphy’s lasting influence and the power of thoughtful, character-driven storytelling.
