Eddie Murphy is known as a brilliant comedian and actor. His versatility is seen in his impressive movie line-up. The hits ‘Trading Places,’ ‘Beverly Hills Cop,’ ‘Harlem Nights,’ and ‘Dolomite is my Name’ beam with Murphy’s comic brilliance. He also won hearts in popular franchises like ‘Shrek,’ ‘Dr. Dolittle,’ ’48 Hours,’ and ‘The Nutty Professor.’ But, there’s one movie we often forget. It’s the 1986 fantasy-comedy, ‘The Golden Child.’
Delving into Murphy’s ‘Golden Child’
‘The Golden Child’ came out when Murphy was at the peak of his career in the 80s. It starred seasoned actors from the iconic ‘Big Trouble in Little China.’ It also tried Murphy’s foray into fantasy, mixing supernatural elements into the plot. Despite mixed reviews from critics, audiences loved it. The movie raked in an enormous 149 million against a 25 million budget.
Murphy plays a special investigator who’s into finding missing kids. But, he ends up in a mystic underworld when ‘The Golden Child’ is kidnapped. It’s his task to rescue the child, and the journey brings in a host of surprises and challenges, making it an exciting watch.
Box Office Success Against the Odds
‘The Golden Child’ beat its competitors at the box office, quite surprisingly. The movie was initially set for a serious tone. But in the midst of production, it shifted to comedy, featuring Murphy’s iconic charm and infectious laughter. Charles Dance, Charlotte Lewis, and Randall Tex Cobb’s standout performances also added to the movie’s appeal.
Remarkable elements in ‘The Golden Child’
This movie is also famous for its memorable dream sequence and 4th wall breaks. It’s widely appreciated by fans. ‘The Golden Child’ seamlessly merged genres, blending horror and drama with fantasy. Its supernatural elements made it a standout among other Eddie Murphy movies.
Why ‘The Golden Child’ Still Matters
Over the years, the movie has become a beloved ‘guilty pleasure’ for many viewers. ‘The Golden Child’ is fondly remembered for its unique plot and Murphy’s contagious charm. Its combo of comedy and supernatural elements made it a special addition to Murphy’s list. While some critics looked down upon this blend of genres, many found it added an entertaining and refreshing touch to Murphy’s impressive filmography.
Despite the mixed reviews it got, ‘The Golden Child’ ended up as the eighth highest-grossing movie in the year it was released, easily making back its budget. Looking back, it seems like a film ahead of its time, effortlessly mixing genres long before it became a trend.
Takeaway
In conclusion, ‘The Golden Child’ certainly deserves recognition as a unique and fun part of Eddie Murphy’s movie journey. If you haven’t seen this 80’s masterpiece, it’s worth a watch. You might find its unexpected blend of comedy and fantasy endearing. And if you’re someone who enjoys a good dose of nostalgia, it’s definitely time to revisit this entertaining movie. Despite not winning an Oscar, ‘The Golden Child’ sparkles with its extraordinary appeal and charismatic performances!
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