Despite being widely regarded as one of the lowest points in Eddie Murphy‘s extensive film career, the comedy Norbit has recently gained unexpected popularity on Netflix. As of now, the 2007 film ranks #10 on the streaming platform’s global most-watched list, a surprising achievement given its mere 9% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. This resurgence brings renewed attention to the Eddie Murphy Norbit comedy and its complex reputation among viewers and critics alike.
Unexpected Oscar Nod Highlights Norbit’s Makeup Achievements
Norbit’s association with the Academy Awards is one of its more surprising aspects. Although the film was largely panned, Paramount Pictures submitted it during the awards season, resulting in a nomination for Best Makeup. This category has previously included films that were critical failures but recognized for their prosthetic artistry, such as Click and Suicide Squad. The nomination baffled many critics, who found it jarring to imagine Norbit featured in such a prestigious forum.
The recognition in makeup was not without merit, considering the work of renowned artists Rick Baker and Kazu Hiro. Eddie Murphy portrayed three principal characters in the movie, two of which required extensive prosthetic makeup. While the craftsmanship was not on par with Murphy’s earlier success in The Nutty Professor, which earned Best Makeup honors, the effects nevertheless stood out as a notable technical achievement within the film’s otherwise negative reception.
How Norbit May Have Influenced Murphy’s Oscar Hopes
While Norbit managed to secure an Academy Award nomination in makeup, it may have inadvertently hindered Eddie Murphy’s chances of winning an acting Oscar the year prior. In 2007, Murphy was a strong contender for Best Supporting Actor due to his acclaimed performance in Dreamgirls, a role that earned him a Golden Globe win and positioned him as a favorite among awards voters.
The timing proved unfortunate, as Norbit’s release just weeks before the Oscars cast a shadow on Murphy’s reputation. Although audiences showed some interest, the film was overwhelmingly derided by critics. Many felt the comedy failed to replicate the success of Murphy’s earlier works like Coming to America and The Nutty Professor, despite him playing multiple characters once again. Luke Sader of The Hollywood Reporter described Norbit as a
“racially insensitive, politically incorrect and beyond crude”
film, highlighting the harsh criticism it received. Numerous reviews on Rotten Tomatoes repeatedly contrasted Murphy’s performances in Norbit and Dreamgirls, often unfavorably for the former.
The night Murphy lost the Oscar to Alan Arkin for Little Miss Sunshine, he appeared visibly affected by the defeat. Following this, Norbit was largely forgotten in public discourse, and Murphy retreated from the spotlight for several years, focusing on smaller projects. He eventually returned to prominence with films like Dolemite Is My Name, rebuilding his legacy as a comedy icon despite the ongoing mixed opinions about Norbit.
Main Actors Behind Norbit’s Characters
Eddie Murphy took on three major roles in Norbit, portraying Norbit Albert Rice, the domineering Rasputia Latimore, and Mr. Wong, a grocery store owner. Alongside Murphy, the cast featured Thandiwe Newton as Kate Thomas, who is Norbit’s childhood sweetheart and love interest.
Terry Crews played Big Jack Latimore, Rasputia’s intimidating brother, while Clifton Powell appeared as Earl Latimore, adding depth to the family dynamic that shapes much of the film’s conflict. The performances, combined with the extensive makeup work, contributed to the film’s distinct style and its divisive reception.
Significance of Norbit’s Streaming Success Today
The unexpected revival of Eddie Murphy Norbit comedy on Netflix signals the complicated legacy of the film. While critics continue to denounce its humor and cultural insensitivity, the movie’s place among streaming viewers suggests a curiosity or nostalgic interest that defies its poor critical reputation. Its rise on the streamer’s charts shows how audiences often engage differently with films over time, revisiting titles dismissed in their initial release.
For Murphy, Norbit represents both a low point and a remarkable technical achievement in makeup artistry that received recognition from Hollywood’s top awards. The film’s comeback might inspire further discussion on how movies are reassessed long after their theatrical runs, reflecting evolving viewer tastes and access through modern platforms.
