Coming 2 America: A Royal Return with a Dash of Nostalgia
When I first heard about Coming 2 America, my heart fluttered with nostalgia. The original film had firmly cemented itself in my childhood memories. How could I forget Eddie Murphy and Arsenio Hall’s unforgettable performances? It felt like a warm embrace asking me back into the whimsical world of Zamunda. Fast forward to watching the sequel, and I found myself both excited and a tad anxious—would it live up to the comedic masterpiece that launched my teenage laughter?
The film opens with a familiar royal flair, bringing back our beloved characters: newly-crowned King Akeem (Murphy) and his ever-loyal sidekick Semmi (Hall). This time, they embark on an adventure that leads them back to Queens, New York, where their journey began. The plot thickens when Akeem discovers he has a son, Lavelle (played by Jermaine Fowler), whom he never knew about. This discovery sends him on a quest not just for comedic chaos, but for familial connection—a heartfelt theme that resonated with me deeply.
The film juggles multiple themes: tradition versus modernity, the significance of family, and the inherent comedy of misunderstandings. While I appreciated how it attempts to weave these elements together, I can’t ignore the polarizing reactions it garnered. Some viewers found the execution wanting, while others—like enthusiastic fans from online reviews—celebrated it as a triumphant reunion with our favorite characters.
Let’s talk about the acting: Eddie Murphy is a force of nature, channeling Akeem’s charm and warmth effortlessly. Arsenio Hall, stepping back into Semmi’s shoes, brings a delightful comedic flair that highlights their enduring friendship. Wesley Snipes nails his role as General Izzi, the ostentatious and over-the-top villain—a refreshing twist that provided not just laughs but memorable quotes that I’d find myself repeating. “I’m not here to make friends! I’m here to make enemies!"—a line that encapsulates his outrageous character perfectly.
However, the film does lean heavily on nostalgia which might alienate some viewers who are looking for a more innovative storyline. Critics argue about the sequel’s reliance on beloved elements from the original, even suggesting it felt somewhat forced at times. I found myself caught in a tug-of-war between appreciating the nostalgia and yearning for a fresh, compelling narrative. I wondered, could this film stand on its own merits sans the foundational love we all have for the first?
Despite its flaws, Coming 2 America is a wild ride that serves as a joyful reunion with characters we fell in love with decades ago. It doesn’t just rest on laurels—there are moments of profound reflection about family, culture, and the passage of time. The film embraces the absurdity of life, urging us to not take ourselves too seriously—a lesson perfect for our current times.
In conclusion, I’d recommend Coming 2 America to fans of the original looking for a hearty dose of humor paired with poignant family themes. It’s a film best enjoyed with an open heart and perhaps a side of nostalgia. It brought me back to my laughter-filled youth while also encouraging me to reflect on the essence of connection in today’s world—a royal treat that’s worth an audience, for sure.
You can find Coming 2 America (2020) here >>