By the time he turned 30, Eddie Murphy had shot two of the most influential standup specials of all time and starred in four of the greatest comedies ever made. Without a doubt, he’s one of the most legendary names in comedy. Murphy has been a bankable star for almost half a century, regularly appearing in hit high-concept comedies, often playing multiple roles within the same project. From the class-war caper of Trading Places to the sci-fi hijinks of The Nutty Professor, Murphy has headlined many comedy classics. But which are the funniest movies of his career?
Murphy’s very first movie is still one of his best. Directed by legendary action filmmaker Walter Hill, 48 Hrs. was one of the early classics that laid the groundwork for the now-beloved “buddy cop” genre. Nick Nolte stars as a grizzled, stern-faced cop who reluctantly arranges to have a petty crook, played by Murphy, released from prison for two days so he can help him catch his old partner-in-crime. As with any “buddy cop” duo, their initial bickering ultimately paves the way for an endearing friendship.
Before Lethal Weapon, There Was 48 Hrs.
Led by Murphy and Nolte’s odd-couple chemistry, 48 Hrs. is a rare example of an action comedy whose action is visceral and thrilling and whose comedy is well-timed and well-written. The shootouts are as intense as the banter is hilarious.
Back in 2007, a couple of months after Murphy’s much-deserved Academy Award nomination for Dreamgirls, he received some of the most ruthlessly negative reviews of his career for Norbit. Norbit might not be an awards contender, but it’s a lot funnier than its critical reception would suggest. Murphy anchors the movie with a hysterical dual performance (thanks to Oscar-nominated make-up
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Eddie Murphy