Movie Review: Coming 2 America (2021)
- Joao Nsita
- Dec 26, 2024
- 5 min read
Introduction
Coming 2 America (2021), directed by Craig Brewer, revisits the beloved characters from the 1988 classic Coming to America. Set decades after the original, this sequel dives back into the lives of Prince Akeem (Eddie Murphy), now King Akeem, and his loyal confidant Semmi (Arsenio Hall). While the film aims to recapture the humor and charm of its predecessor, it also introduces a new generation of characters and explores the theme of legacy. With a blend of nostalgia and fresh comedic moments, Coming 2 America offers a lighthearted continuation of the Zamundan saga.
Plot Summary
The story picks up in the prosperous kingdom of Zamunda, where King Akeem learns of a long-lost son, Lavelle Junson (Jermaine Fowler), living in Queens, New York. Lavelle’s existence stems from an unexpected one-night encounter during Akeem’s first trip to America. Faced with pressures to produce a male heir for Zamunda, Akeem travels back to Queens with Semmi to bring Lavelle to Zamunda and prepare him to be a prince.
Lavelle’s arrival in Zamunda sets off a series of comedic cultural clashes as he struggles to adapt to royal life. Meanwhile, Akeem grapples with the challenges of being a leader, a father, and a husband to Queen Lisa (Shari Headley). Alongside the family drama, General Izzi (Wesley Snipes), ruler of a neighboring nation, poses a humorous yet looming threat to Zamunda’s peace.
Themes and Storytelling
The central theme of Coming 2 America is legacy—what we pass down to future generations and how we adapt traditions to a modern world. The film explores Akeem’s growth as he questions the patriarchal norms of Zamunda and ultimately learns to embrace change.
While the movie heavily leans on nostalgia, revisiting familiar settings and beloved characters, it also introduces new perspectives through Lavelle and his mother, Mary (Leslie Jones). The juxtaposition of Queens and Zamunda once again serves as a comedic and cultural focal point, though the sequel’s commentary on these contrasts feels less sharp than in the original.
Performances
Eddie Murphy slips back into the role of Akeem with ease, bringing warmth and humor to the character. Arsenio Hall as Semmi provides excellent comedic support, reprising their dynamic chemistry from the original film. Both actors also return as their multiple eccentric characters, including barbershop regulars Clarence and Morris, offering moments of levity.
Jermaine Fowler delivers a heartfelt performance as Lavelle, capturing the confusion and ambition of a young man thrust into an unfamiliar world. Leslie Jones steals the show as Mary, Lavelle’s loud and unapologetically hilarious mother. Wesley Snipes as General Izzi adds a layer of over-the-top humor, embracing the role with gusto.
The film also brings back much of the original cast, including James Earl Jones as King Jaffe Joffer and Shari Headley as Queen Lisa. While their appearances are more limited, they help anchor the sequel in the world of the first film.
Visuals and Direction
Craig Brewer, known for Dolemite Is My Name, brings a polished aesthetic to Coming 2 America. The kingdom of Zamunda is depicted with grandeur and vibrancy, featuring elaborate costumes by Ruth E. Carter that celebrate African culture with a modern twist. The colorful and detailed set designs enhance the film’s visual appeal.
The cinematography captures the contrast between the opulence of Zamunda and the grittiness of Queens, though these transitions are less prominent compared to the original. The pacing of the film is uneven at times, with some scenes feeling rushed while others linger on nostalgia.
Strengths and Critiques
The film’s greatest strength lies in its nostalgia factor. Fans of the original will enjoy revisiting iconic characters, locations, and even jokes. The comedic performances, particularly by Leslie Jones and Wesley Snipes, breathe new life into the story.
However, Coming 2 America struggles to balance homage with innovation. While the film introduces new characters and themes, it often relies too heavily on callbacks to the original, leaving little room for fresh storytelling. The humor is more family-friendly, losing some of the edginess that defined the 1988 classic.
Additionally, Lavelle’s arc, while charming, feels predictable, and some subplots, such as the political tensions with General Izzi, lack depth. The movie’s attempt to juggle multiple storylines results in a less cohesive narrative compared to its predecessor.
Legacy and Impact
Coming 2 America serves as a tribute to the original film, celebrating its cultural significance and beloved characters. While it may not achieve the same iconic status, it reinforces the enduring appeal of the Zamundan world and Eddie Murphy’s comedic legacy.
The sequel’s exploration of modern issues, such as gender equality and breaking traditional norms, adds a contemporary layer to the story, though these themes could have been more deeply explored. Despite its flaws, the film succeeds in delivering a feel-good experience that honors its roots while welcoming a new generation of fans.
Conclusion
Coming 2 America is a nostalgic and entertaining sequel that revisits the charm of the original while introducing new characters and themes. While it may not capture the groundbreaking magic of its predecessor, the film offers plenty of laughs, heartwarming moments, and a celebration of Eddie Murphy’s comedic genius. Fans of the first movie will enjoy the trip back to Zamunda, while newcomers may find it a lighthearted introduction to the franchise.
FAQs About Coming 2 America
Q: Is Coming 2 America suitable for all ages?A: The film is rated PG-13 for language and mild humor, making it appropriate for older children and adults.
Q: Do I need to watch the first Coming to America to understand the sequel?A: While it’s not essential, watching the original will enhance your understanding of the characters and their backstories.
Q: Who directed Coming 2 America?A: The film was directed by Craig Brewer, who also directed Eddie Murphy in Dolemite Is My Name.
Q: What is the main theme of the movie?A: The film explores legacy, family, and the importance of adapting traditions to fit a modern world.
Q: Are all the original cast members back?A: Many original cast members, including Eddie Murphy, Arsenio Hall, James Earl Jones, and Shari Headley, return, along with new additions like Jermaine Fowler and Leslie Jones.
Q: What role does Wesley Snipes play?A: Wesley Snipes plays General Izzi, the eccentric leader of a neighboring nation and a comedic antagonist in the film.
Q: Is Coming 2 America as funny as the original?A: While it has humorous moments, the sequel’s humor is more family-friendly and less edgy than the original.
Q: Where was the movie filmed?A: The film was primarily shot in Atlanta, Georgia, with set designs recreating the fictional kingdom of Zamunda.
Q: Does the sequel expand on Zamunda’s culture?A: Yes, the film delves deeper into Zamunda’s traditions, costumes, and royal customs, adding richness to the setting.
Q: Will there be a third Coming to America movie?A: There are no confirmed plans for a third installment, but the sequel leaves the door open for future stories.
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