In the history of modern comedy, there are stars, there are superstars, and then there is the seismic, culture-shifting, once-in-a-generation force of nature that is Eddie Murphy. Exploding onto the scene in the early 1980s as a teenage prodigy on Saturday Night Live, Murphy didn't just tell jokes; he radiated an electric, supernova-level charisma that the world had never seen. He was cool, confident, and armed with a million-dollar smile and a laugh that could fill a stadium. He single-handedly saved SNL, redefined the art of stand-up comedy with his legendary specials Delirious and Raw, and then proceeded to conquer Hollywood, becoming one of the most bankable and beloved movie stars on the planet.

Decades later, in the fragmented, trend-driven landscape of 2025, the legacy of Eddie Murphy is not just intact; it's being joyfully rediscovered by a new generation. On TikTok and Pinterest, the 80s and 90s Nostalgia Boom is in full swing, and Murphy’s early films are its sacred texts. The iconic varsity jacket from Beverly Hills Cop is a coveted fashion item, the regal aesthetics of Coming to America are a source of endless inspiration, and his raw, unfiltered stand-up clips are going viral, shocking and delighting a new audience. For Gen Z and younger millennials, he is Donkey from Shrek, the voice of their childhood, a character whose meme-worthy lines are a universal language. His celebrated comeback in Dolemite Is My Name only solidified his status, sparking a critical re-evaluation of a career that is as varied as it is iconic.

This list is a celebration of that incredible filmography. It's a ranking of ten of his best and most significant films, a journey through a career that has spanned action-comedy, family-friendly animation, broad physical comedy, and acclaimed dramatic performances. These are the films that showcase the unparalleled talent, charm, and enduring legacy of the undisputed king of comedy.

10. Harlem Nights (1989)

A passion project in every sense of the word, Harlem Nights stands as the only film Eddie Murphy has ever directed. It’s a stylish, ambitious, and wildly entertaining period piece that unites three generations of Black comedy legends. Murphy stars as Quick, the hot-headed adopted son of Sugar Ray (the incomparable Richard Pryor), the owner of a successful but illegal casino in 1930s Harlem. When a ruthless white mobster and a corrupt cop (played by the great Redd Foxx) try to muscle in on their operation, Ray and Quick must assemble a crew to pull off one last, ingenious scheme to save their empire.

The film is a loving tribute to the style and slang of the Harlem Renaissance, with beautiful costume design and a slick, jazzy score. While it received mixed reviews upon release, its cultural significance and cult status have only grown over time. The real magic of the film is seeing Murphy, the biggest star of his generation, share the screen with his idols, Pryor and Foxx. The dialogue crackles with energy, and the film is packed with memorable, laugh-out-loud moments. It’s a confident, swaggering piece of filmmaking that showcases Murphy's ambition to not just be a star, but a creator and a historian of the comedy that paved his way.

External Link: The IMDb page for Harlem Nights is a great resource for exploring the film's legendary cast and trivia.

9. Bowfinger (1999)

In this brilliant, underrated satire of Hollywood, Eddie Murphy delivers not one, but two incredible performances. Steve Martin (who also wrote the screenplay) stars as Bobby Bowfinger, a desperate, down-on-his-luck movie producer. He has the perfect script, but the only way to get it financed is to secure the world's biggest action star, Kit Ramsey (Murphy). When Ramsey refuses, Bowfinger concocts an insane scheme: he will film Ramsey without his knowledge, ambushing him with actors and hidden cameras to create his masterpiece. Murphy plays the dual role of the paranoid, A-list superstar Kit Ramsey and his sweet, nerdy, and unsuspecting brother, Jiff.

The film is a hilarious and surprisingly sharp look at the absurdity of the movie business. But it is Murphy's performance that elevates it to classic status. As Kit, he is a comedic whirlwind, a man unraveling under the pressure of fame and a bizarre celebrity cult. As Jiff, he is gentle, endearing, and heartbreakingly naive. The scene where the mild-mannered Jiff is forced to run across a busy highway is a masterclass in physical comedy. It’s a showcase for Murphy's incredible range, proving that he could be both the larger-than-life star and the quiet character actor in the very same film. The film is a perfect pairing of two comedic legends, Martin and Murphy, much like some of the other great pairings we see in film, like the one in The Pick Up.

8. Dreamgirls (2006)

In a dramatic turn that shocked audiences and earned him an Academy Award nomination and a Golden Globe win, Eddie Murphy delivered the most powerful and tragic performance of his career in the musical extravaganza Dreamgirls. The film, a thinly veiled retelling of the story of The Supremes, follows the rise of a trio of young Black singers in the 1960s and 70s. Murphy plays James "Thunder" Early, a charismatic, James Brown-esque R&B superstar whose incredible talent is ultimately consumed by his own personal demons, drug addiction, and the changing tides of the music industry.

Murphy is an absolute revelation in the role. He completely disappears into the character of Jimmy Early, capturing his explosive, sweat-drenched stage presence, his charm, his vulnerability, and his heartbreaking decline. His performance of the song "Jimmy's Rap" is a raw, devastating portrait of a man losing everything. It was a role that reminded the world that beneath the megawatt smile and the iconic laugh was a performer of immense depth and dramatic power. It’s a towering performance that proved he could do more than just make people laugh; he could break their hearts. The film itself is a dazzling spectacle, a must-watch for fans of musicals and powerful, character-driven stories.

External Link: The official Golden Globes page for Eddie Murphy's win is a great reminder of the acclaim he received for this role.

7. The Nutty Professor (1996)

After a slight career lull in the early 90s, Eddie Murphy came roaring back with this hilarious and surprisingly heartfelt remake of the Jerry Lewis classic. The Nutty Professor was a comedic tour de force, a film that allowed Murphy to showcase his incredible gift for character creation. He stars as the kind, gentle, and morbidly obese Professor Sherman Klump. To win the affection of a beautiful graduate student (Jada Pinkett Smith) and to escape his own insecurities, Sherman invents a miracle weight-loss formula that temporarily transforms him into the slim, arrogant, and obnoxiously confident Buddy Love.

The film is a showcase of jaw-dropping technical wizardry, with Murphy, aided by Rick Baker's Oscar-winning makeup, playing a total of seven different characters, including the entire Klump family. The dinner table scenes, where Murphy plays almost everyone at the table, are an absolute masterclass in comedic performance, with each family member having a distinct, hilarious personality. But beyond the incredible effects and the broad comedy, the film has a real heart. Murphy's portrayal of Sherman Klump is incredibly sweet and sympathetic, and the film has a genuinely touching message about self-acceptance. It was a massive box office smash that re-established Murphy as the king of comedy and a beloved star for a new generation. The film's message of self-love is a powerful one, a theme that is beautifully explored in this article on The Art of Self-Love.

6. Dolemite Is My Name (2019)

Eddie Murphy’s triumphant return to the screen, Dolemite Is My Name is a joyous, profane, and incredibly inspiring celebration of a true cult icon. This Netflix film tells the true story of Rudy Ray Moore, a struggling comedian and musician in 1970s Los Angeles who, after being repeatedly rejected by the mainstream, creates the iconic, fast-talking, pimp-like persona of "Dolemite." He records hugely successful, underground "party records" and then, against all odds, risks everything to produce and star in his own Blaxploitation film, Dolemite.

This is the role Murphy was born to play. He completely embodies the spirit of Rudy Ray Moore, capturing his boundless optimism, his infectious charisma, and his unwavering belief in himself. It’s a performance of incredible warmth and humanity, a loving tribute to a man who built a legendary career on pure, unadulterated hustle. The film is a hilarious and heartfelt celebration of outsider art, DIY filmmaking, and the power of creating your own opportunities when the world refuses to give you one. It was hailed by critics as a major comeback for Murphy, earning him a Golden Globe nomination and reminding everyone of the incredible talent that had been missing from our screens for too long. For those who love a good comeback story, you might enjoy reading about the revival of another classic in King of the Hill.

5. Shrek (2001)

It is impossible to overstate the cultural impact of Shrek, and at the heart of its massive, multi-billion dollar success is Eddie Murphy's iconic performance as Donkey. In a brilliant subversion of fairytale tropes, the film follows a grumpy, solitary ogre named Shrek whose peaceful swamp is overrun by fairytale creatures. To get his swamp back, he makes a deal with the villainous Lord Farquaad to rescue Princess Fiona from a dragon-guarded tower. His unwanted but inseparable companion on this quest is Donkey, a fast-talking, waffle-loving, and relentlessly optimistic equine.

Murphy’s performance is a masterclass in voice acting. He imbues Donkey with an incredible energy, warmth, and comedic timing that is simply unforgettable. Donkey is the loyal, slightly annoying, but ultimately good-hearted best friend that everyone wishes they had. His chemistry with Mike Myers' Shrek is the soul of the film, their bickering friendship providing the story's biggest laughs and its most touching moments. The film itself was a game-changer for animation, with its clever pop-culture satire and its heartfelt message about loving yourself, flaws and all. For an entire generation, Eddie Murphy is Donkey, a role that has cemented his status as a beloved icon for audiences of all ages. For more family-friendly fun, check out this list of 10 Cozy Disney+ Movies for Autumn Nights.

4. 48 Hrs. (1982)

This is the film that made Eddie Murphy a movie star. In his stunning feature film debut, the 21-year-old Murphy, still a cast member on Saturday Night Live, didn't just hold his own against veteran actor Nick Nolte; he stole the entire movie. Nolte plays Jack Cates, a grizzled, hard-nosed cop hunting down a pair of escaped cop-killers. To catch them, he is forced to temporarily release Reggie Hammond (Murphy), the convicts' former partner, from prison for 48 hours. What follows is the birth of the buddy-cop genre as we know it.

The chemistry between the gruff, world-weary Nolte and the slick, charismatic Murphy is absolutely electric. The film is a gritty, violent, and incredibly funny thriller, but it is Murphy’s performance that makes it a classic. His iconic scene where he smoothly takes control of a redneck bar is a star-making moment, a breathtaking display of confidence and comedic genius. He is a bolt of lightning, a force of nature that the screen can barely contain. It is one of the most confident and electrifying film debuts in history, a performance that announced the arrival of a true superstar. The film's influence is still felt in the best detective shows today.

External Link: A retrospective from The Hollywood Reporter on the 40th anniversary of 48 Hrs. explores the film's lasting impact.

3. Trading Places (1983)

A brilliant social satire that feels as sharp and relevant today as it did in 1983, Trading Places solidified Murphy's status as a comedic superstar. In a modern update of Mark Twain's The Prince and the Pauper, two wealthy, bored, and morally bankrupt commodities brokers, the Duke brothers, make a one-dollar "nature versus nurture" bet. They proceed to frame their up-and-coming protégé, the snooty Louis Winthorpe III (Dan Aykroyd), for a crime, stripping him of his job, his home, and his fiancée. They then pluck a savvy, fast-talking street hustler, Billy Ray Valentine (Murphy), from the streets and give him Winthorpe's life.

The film is a masterpiece of social commentary, a hilarious and scathing indictment of classism and systemic greed. Murphy is absolutely brilliant as Billy Ray Valentine, a man who uses his street smarts to not only survive but thrive in the cutthroat world of Wall Street. His chemistry with Dan Aykroyd is fantastic, especially as their characters team up for a glorious revenge plot in the film's final act. It’s a sophisticated, intelligent, and incredibly funny comedy that showcased Murphy's versatility and his ability to be both the comedic engine and the relatable heart of a film.

2. Coming to America (1988)

A fairy tale of unparalleled charm and comedic genius, Coming to America is one of the most beloved and endlessly rewatchable comedies of all time. Murphy stars as the kind, impossibly wealthy, and hopelessly romantic Prince Akeem of the fictional African nation of Zamunda. To escape an arranged marriage and find a woman who will love him for himself, not for his title, he and his loyal aide, Semmi (Arsenio Hall), travel to the one place a prince could find his queen: Queens, New York. Posing as poor students, they get jobs at a local fast-food restaurant, McDowell's, where Akeem falls for the beautiful and intelligent Lisa McDowell.

The film is a perfect showcase for Murphy's incredible talent. As Akeem, he is sweet, charming, and endearingly naive. But, like in The Nutty Professor, he also disappears under layers of Rick Baker makeup to play a host of hilarious supporting characters, including the soul-singing Randy Watson, the feisty barbershop owner Clarence, and the Jewish barbershop customer, Saul. The film is a sweet, hilarious, and surprisingly romantic fish-out-of-water story with a pro-Black message that was groundbreaking for a mainstream Hollywood comedy at the time. Its cultural footprint is immense, and its status as a beloved classic is undeniable. The journey to find true love is a timeless one, a theme at the core of That Love Podcast.

External Link: Check out the original 1988 trailer for Coming to America on YouTube to see the classic marketing.

1. Beverly Hills Cop (1984)

This is the role that made Eddie Murphy the biggest movie star in the world. Beverly Hills Cop is not just his best movie; it is a landmark of 80s cinema, a perfect fusion of action and comedy that has never been bettered. Murphy stars as Axel Foley, a reckless but brilliant, fast-talking Detroit cop. When his childhood friend is murdered, Foley's investigation takes him "on vacation" to the pristine, palm-tree-lined streets of Beverly Hills. There, his street-smart, rule-breaking style clashes hilariously with the by-the-book Beverly Hills police force as he uncovers a massive drug smuggling operation.

Murphy's performance as Axel Foley is the definition of iconic. He is a whirlwind of charisma, a comedic hurricane who is always the smartest, coolest, and funniest person in every single room. His iconic laugh, his quick-witted improvisations, and his effortless swagger are simply mesmerizing to watch. The film is a perfectly paced, thrilling, and consistently hilarious adventure, powered by one of the greatest synthesizer scores of all time. Beverly Hills Cop wasn’t just a movie; it was a cultural event. It shattered box office records, turned its star into a global icon, and created a character for the ages. It is the perfect distillation of everything that makes Eddie Murphy a legend.

Conclusion

The filmography of Eddie Murphy is a testament to a singular, generational talent. It’s a career of incredible highs, a few notable lows, and a triumphant third act that has cemented his legacy. From the raw, electric energy of his 80s blockbusters to the heartwarming family classics and the acclaimed dramatic roles, he has consistently proven his incredible range and his unparalleled ability to connect with an audience. The reason his films from 40 years ago are still being discovered and celebrated by a new generation on social media is simple: true charisma is timeless. The iconic laugh, the brilliant comedic mind, and the megawatt smile of Eddie Murphy are as potent and as joyful today as they were when he first burst onto our screens, a true and undisputed king of comedy.

External Links

1. Rotten Tomatoes: Eddie Murphy: See the critical consensus for Murphy's entire filmography.

2. IMDb: Eddie Murphy: Explore his full list of acting, producing, and writing credits.

3. Saturday Night Live on YouTube: Watch classic clips from Eddie Murphy's legendary tenure on the show.

4. The Hollywood Reporter - "The Eddie Murphy ’80s Blitz": A retrospective on his incredible run of blockbuster hits.

5. "Dolemite Is My Name" on Netflix: Watch his critically acclaimed comeback performance.

6. Box Office Mojo: Eddie Murphy: See the impressive box office numbers for his films.

7. Wikipedia: Eddie Murphy filmography: A comprehensive, detailed list of every official film release.

8. The Guardian - Eddie Murphy Interview: Read interviews with the star discussing his career and comeback.

FAQs

1. What is Eddie Murphy's highest-grossing movie? The Shrek franchise is by far his most commercially successful work. Shrek 2 is his highest-grossing individual film, having earned over $928 million worldwide. His highest-grossing live-action film as the lead is Beverly Hills Cop.

2. How old was Eddie Murphy when he joined Saturday Night Live? He was incredibly young, joining the cast of Saturday Night Live in 1980 at the age of just 19.

3. Has Eddie Murphy won an Oscar? No, he has not won an Academy Award, but he was nominated for Best Supporting Actor in 2007 for his incredible performance as James "Thunder" Early in Dreamgirls.

   
   

4. What are his famous stand-up specials? His two legendary and highly influential stand-up comedy films are Delirious (1983) and Raw (1987). Raw is still the highest-grossing stand-up comedy film of all time.

   
   

5. Is he still making movies? Yes. After his celebrated comeback with Dolemite Is My Name, he has been more active, starring in films like Coming 2 America and the upcoming Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F.

6. Did he really play multiple characters in Coming to America? Yes! Aided by makeup artist Rick Baker, he plays Prince Akeem, the barbershop owner Clarence, the barbershop customer Saul, and the soul singer Randy Watson.

7. What is the famous theme song from Beverly Hills Cop? The iconic, Grammy-winning instrumental theme song is called "Axel F," composed by Harold Faltermeyer.

8. Which of his movies are best for the whole family? The Shrek franchise is a classic choice. The Nutty Professor, Dr. Dolittle, and Mulan (where he voices Mushu the dragon) are also great family-friendly options.

   
   

9. Why did he stop doing stand-up comedy for so long? Murphy has stated that he simply got tired of it and wanted to focus on his film career. He has also said that he felt he had reached the pinnacle with Raw and didn't want to tarnish its legacy.

10. Is Eddie Murphy involved in the new Beverly Hills Cop movie? Yes, he is reprising his iconic role as Axel Foley and also serves as a producer on the film Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F, set for release on Netflix.