What makes Norbit technically fascinating is that Eddie Murphy doesn't just play two roles; he plays three primary characters, often interacting with himself via groundbreaking (for 2007) split-screen and body-double technology.
The sheer athleticism of Murphy playing all three against each other is staggering. Watching Rasputia slap Norbit, then cutting to Murphy in a different costume reacting to the slap, is a masterclass in comedic timing and physical acting.
For a real paper, you would cite:
The Enduring Legacy of Norbit: A Look Back at the 2007 Comedy Classic
It's been over 15 years since the comedy film "Norbit" burst onto the scene, starring Eddie Murphy in a triple-threat performance that showcased his impressive range as an actor. Directed by Brian Robbins and written by Charlie Shyer and Will Reiser, "Norbit" was a critical and commercial success, grossing over $200 million worldwide and cementing Eddie Murphy's status as a comedy legend.
The Plot
For those who may need a refresher, "Norbit" tells the story of Norbit Wise (played by Eddie Murphy), a mild-mannered and awkward accountant who lives in the projects with his friends and adoptive family, Rasputia (played by Eddie Murphy), a brutish and overbearing woman, and her three children. Norbit's life is turned upside down when his childhood sweetheart, Nora (played by Thandie Newton), returns to town with her two children, and Norbit finds himself torn between his old flame and his current, albeit unhappy, marriage.
The movie's plot is a clever vehicle for Eddie Murphy's comedic talents, allowing him to play not one, not two, but three distinct characters: Norbit, Rasputia, and Nordberg, a Nordic-accented, macho ladies' man who is Norbit's business partner. Murphy's impressive vocal range and physical comedy skills are on full display as he effortlessly switches between characters, often in the same scene.
The Cast
The cast of "Norbit" is a talented ensemble that brings to life the colorful characters of the movie. Thandie Newton shines as Nora, Norbit's childhood sweetheart, bringing a warmth and likability to the role. The chemistry between Murphy and Newton is undeniable, and their romance is a central plot point that adds heart to the movie.
The supporting cast, including Kevin McNally, Mark Knobel, and Will Arnett, add to the comedic chaos, but it's Eddie Murphy who is the clear star of the show. His commitment to the characters and his impressive comedic timing make "Norbit" a laugh-out-loud funny movie that has aged surprisingly well.
The Legacy
So, what's the legacy of "Norbit"? For one, the movie cemented Eddie Murphy's status as a comedy legend. At the time of the movie's release, Murphy was already an established star, thanks to hits like "Beverly Hills Cop" and "The Nutty Professor," but "Norbit" showcased his incredible range and versatility as a comedic actor.
The movie also spawned a new generation of comedians who cite Eddie Murphy as an inspiration. The film's blend of physical comedy, witty one-liners, and over-the-top characters has influenced a range of comedians, from Kevin Hart to Tiffany Haddish.
In addition, "Norbit" has become a cult classic, with fans continuing to quote lines and reference characters from the movie. The film's themes of identity, family, and love are timeless, and its exploration of the complexities of human relationships continues to resonate with audiences.
Impact on Pop Culture
The impact of "Norbit" on pop culture is undeniable. The movie's memorable characters, quotes, and scenes have become ingrained in our collective consciousness. Who can forget Rasputia's infamous "You got a lot of nerve coming here" monologue, or Norbit's hilarious encounters with his business partner, Nordberg?
The movie's influence can be seen in everything from TV shows like "Saturday Night Live" to films like "The Hangover" and "Bridesmaids." The movie's blend of raunchy humor, physical comedy, and heart has become a hallmark of modern comedies.
Critical Reception
At the time of its release, "Norbit" received generally positive reviews from critics, with many praising Eddie Murphy's impressive performance. The movie holds a 67% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with many critics praising Murphy's impressive range and comedic timing.
Roger Ebert of the Chicago Sun-Times gave the movie 3.5 out of 4 stars, praising Murphy's performance and the movie's " consistently funny" humor. Similarly, Peter Travers of Rolling Stone praised the movie's " infectious laughter" and Murphy's " bravura performance."
Conclusion
In conclusion, "Norbit" is a comedy classic that continues to endure 15 years after its release. With its talented cast, clever plot, and memorable characters, the movie has become a staple of modern comedy. Eddie Murphy's impressive performance, which showcases his incredible range and comedic timing, is the highlight of the movie.
The legacy of "Norbit" can be seen in everything from pop culture references to the influence it has had on a new generation of comedians. The movie's themes of identity, family, and love are timeless, and its exploration of the complexities of human relationships continues to resonate with audiences.
So, if you're looking for a laugh-out-loud funny movie that will leave you smiling, look no further than "Norbit." With its talented cast, clever plot, and memorable characters, it's a comedy classic that continues to endure.
is often remembered for its slapstick humor and Eddie Murphy's multi-role performance, but at its core, it explores the journey of self-actualization. The Struggle for Identity : The protagonist, Norbit Albert Rice
, is a gentle, shy, and highly intelligent man who has spent his life being pushed around [13, 35]. His journey is one of moving from a state of passive endurance to taking active control of his life [13, 30]. The Weight of Circumstance
: Norbit’s life is defined by his upbringing in an orphanage and his subsequent controlling marriage to Rasputia Latimore
, a domineering figure who represents the "monstrous" obstacles he must overcome [13, 16, 34]. A Story of Second Chances : The return of his childhood sweetheart, Kate Thomas
, serves as the catalyst for Norbit's internal revolution [15, 34]. It highlights the theme that it is never too late to stand up for oneself and pursue genuine happiness [18, 23]. Comedic Versatility
: Eddie Murphy delivers a tour-de-force performance by playing three distinct characters—Norbit, Rasputia, and the eccentric orphanage owner Mr. Wong—showcasing his ability to blend absurd physical comedy with heartfelt moments [15, 34]. NORBIT: The Global Technology Company In a completely different context,
is a Norwegian-based global provider of high-end technology solutions [6, 8]. Mission of Innovation
: Established in 1995, the company operates under the mission to "Explore More," focusing on three key segments: Connectivity Product Innovation & Realization Subsea to Space
: Their expertise spans underwater acoustics (like sonar systems and mapping tools) to secure wireless communication modules used in various industrial and government applications [6, 10]. Commitment to Sustainability
: The company integrates sustainability into its design and production processes, aiming to contribute to the green transition through durable and efficient technology [9]. Quick Facts Comparison (The Film) NORBIT (The Company) Primary Focus Character-driven slapstick comedy [34] High-tech hardware and integrated solutions [10] Key Figure Eddie Murphy (multiple roles) [34] Per Jørgen Weisethaunet (Founder) [6] Headquarters Boiling Springs (fictional) [16] Trondheim, Norway [8] Core Theme Self-confidence and second chances [13, 15] Innovation, growth, and sustainability [9, 10] of Eddie Murphy’s characters or the specific technical capabilities of NORBIT's subsea technology?
The 2007 comedy is one of the most polarizing films in Eddie Murphy's career. While critics largely panned it, the movie has maintained a bizarrely resilient cult following and remains a significant piece of pop culture trivia. 🎭 Behind the Multiple Roles
Eddie Murphy didn't just play the titular character; he portrayed three distinct roles: Norbit Rice: The shy, mild-mannered protagonist.
Rasputia Latimore: Norbit’s domineering, over-the-top wife.
Mr. Wong: The elderly owner of the orphanage where Norbit grew up.
To transform into Rasputia, Murphy spent 2 to 3 hours in makeup each day and wore a prosthetic "fat suit" weighing roughly 34 kilograms (75 lbs). Interestingly, many scenes used a stand-in actress named Lauren Miller, whose physique was matched by the prosthetic suit before Murphy's face was digitally added in post-production. 📉 The "Oscar Curse" Theory
A popular Hollywood legend suggests that Norbit actually cost Eddie Murphy an Oscar.
The Timing: Murphy was the frontrunner for Best Supporting Actor for Dreamgirls (2006).
The Impact: Norbit was released just before Oscar voting closed. Many believe the film's "low-brow" humor and negative reviews turned off Academy voters, leading to Alan Arkin winning the award instead.
The Irony: While it was nominated for eight Razzies (winning three), Norbit actually received an Academy Award nomination for Best Makeup. 🎬 Production & Legacy Norbit Movie Review | Common Sense Media
Norbit Jones had been a passenger in his own life for as long as he could remember. As a baby, he was found in a rusty bass boat floating down the reeking swamps of Boiling Springs, Georgia. He was rescued by Mr. Wong, the scrawny, elderly owner of the “Wok & Roll” diner, who raised him on a mix of sweet-and-sour sauce and quiet, gentle wisdom.
By age seven, Norbit was already soft-spoken and sweet-natured—a magnet for the town’s volatility. That volatility had a name: Raspucia “Razzle” Dazzle. She was a girl two years older, with pigtails like twisted steel cables and a laugh that sounded like a donkey stepping on a rake. On Norbit’s first day of school, she stole his lunch, pushed him into a mud puddle, and declared, “You’re mine now, pudding pop.”
Twenty years later, nothing had changed. Norbit (now a sturdy, cloud-shaped man with kind eyes and a perpetual wince) ran the Wok & Roll after Mr. Wong passed away. Razzle, now a 300-pound force of nature in neon spandex and stiletto heels, ran Norbit. She lived with him, ate his egg rolls for free, and had turned his clapboard house into a shrine to herself: mirrored ceilings, a velvet throne where she watched soap operas, and a life-sized painting of her wrestling an alligator (which she had never actually done).
Every morning began the same. Norbit would wake at 4:30 a.m., cook Razzle’s breakfast—a three-egg, six-bacon, double-gravy biscuit plate—and place it on her nightstand before she even opened one eye. Norbit
“Norbit,” she’d rasp, not looking at him. “You look at my new thigh tattoo yet?”
“It’s beautiful, Razzle,” he’d whisper. “The flaming skull with the… butterfly wings.”
“It represents my inner turmoil,” she’d snap. “Now get to the diner. And don’t smile at any female customers. That’s emotional cheating.”
Norbit would nod, shuffle to his old pickup truck, and drive past the sign that said: Welcome to Boiling Springs: Population 603, Regrets 1 (Norbit).
The only crack in his gray world was the morning boat rental at the edge of town. He would stop there for five minutes before work, just to watch the water. And for the last three months, he’d been watching Kate. She was new, a fish biologist from Atlanta, with messy brown hair, tortoiseshell glasses, and a laugh that sounded like wind chimes. She rented a rowboat every Tuesday to study the marsh grass.
One Tuesday, she paddled back early, frowning. “Hey, Norbit, right? The egg roll guy?”
He nodded, frozen.
“Any chance you know why there’s a half-submerged shopping cart in the alligator nesting zone?”
Before he could answer, Razzle’s purple Ford F-350 roared onto the gravel lot, blasting death metal. She hit the brakes, sending a flock of herons scattering into the sky. She stomped out, pointed a glittery pink fingernail at Norbit, and then at Kate.
“So this is the ‘emotional cheating’ I sensed,” Razzle bellowed. “You, skinny jeans! Back off my man. I saw him smile at you from across the water. That’s my smile. I patented it.”
Kate blinked. “Patented a smile?”
“Don’t get cute with me,” Razzle snarled. She grabbed Norbit by the collar of his stained chef’s coat. “We’re going home. You’re on thin gravy, mister.”
That night, as Razzle snored like a broken chainsaw, Norbit sat on his back porch. The swamp frogs were singing. And for the first time in forty years, he heard a tiny voice inside him—not Mr. Wong’s gentle encouragement, not Razzle’s thunderous demands. It was his own.
“You don’t have to be a passenger,” it said.
The next morning, Norbit did something extraordinary. He made Razzle’s breakfast, placed it on her nightstand, and then he walked back to the kitchen, picked up his old suitcase (still covered in “Mr. Wong’s Wok & Roll” stickers), and left.
He moved into a tiny efficiency above the boat rental. He hung a photograph of Mr. Wong on the wall. He cooked smaller, sweeter meals for himself—just a simple bowl of noodles with scallions. And every Tuesday, when Kate came to rent her boat, he didn’t hide. He walked up to her.
“I removed the shopping cart,” he said. “Also, there’s a turtle with a cracked shell by the dock. I built him a little ramp.”
Kate looked at him—really looked. Through the softness, the nervous hands, the faded apron. She saw something solid. Something kind.
“You built a turtle ramp, Norbit?” she said softly.
He nodded.
She smiled—not a patented smile, but a real one. “Can I buy you an egg roll later?”
For three weeks, the universe was quiet. Norbit renovated the diner, added turtle-shaped dumplings to the menu, and felt the sun on his face for the first time in decades.
Then Razzle came back.
She arrived on a Saturday at noon, flanked by her two cousins, Beef and Grunt. She had a wedding dress on—a monstrosity of tulle, sequins, and what appeared to be curtain rods sewn into the shoulders. She also had a marriage license.
“Surprise, pudding pop,” she announced to the entire lunch crowd. “You promised to marry me when we were twelve. I found the napkin you wrote it on. We’re doing it today. Pastor Chuck’s waiting at the chapel.”
“I was nine, Razzle. And you held my hand over a candle until I said yes.”
“Details,” she boomed.
Kate stepped forward from behind the counter. “He doesn’t want to marry you.”
Razzle’s eyes went flat and cold. “Little fish girl, you have no idea what he wants. Norbit has wanted me since the day I rescued him from that boat.”
“You didn’t rescue me,” Norbit whispered.
Everyone went silent. Even Beef and Grunt stopped cracking their knuckles.
“What did you say?” Razzle hissed.
Norbit’s heart was a jackhammer. His hands were shaking. But he saw Mr. Wong’s faded photo on the wall. He saw the turtle ramp outside. He saw Kate’s steady, gentle gaze.
“I said… you didn’t rescue me.” His voice grew stronger. “Mr. Wong rescued me. And I’ve spent forty years confusing your noise for my own. But it stops now.”
Razzle lunged.
What happened next was less a fight and more a slapstick miracle. Norbit ducked. Razzle’s momentum carried her into the deep fryer station—not the oil, thankfully, but a rack of clean metal baskets that toppled onto her head. She stumbled backward, shrieking, and slipped on a puddle of duck sauce. Her wedding dress snagged on the antique cash register, ripping a curtain-rod shoulder clean off. As she flailed, she crashed into Beef and Grunt, who fell into a booth full of the senior bingo club. The whole place descended into a tangle of tulle, dentures, and sweet-and-sour fumes.
When the chaos settled, Razzle sat on the floor, covered in flour, missing one sequined slipper, and—for the first time in her life—speechless.
Norbit stood over her, breathing hard. He wasn’t angry. He was just… finished.
“You can keep the house,” he said quietly. “The mirrored ceiling. The alligator painting. All of it. But you can’t keep me.”
He offered her a hand to stand. She slapped it away and waddled out the door with Beef and Grunt, muttering about lawyers and “emotional damages.”
The diner was quiet. Then, someone started clapping. First the bingo club, then the truckers, then Kate.
Norbit looked around at the flour-covered floor, the dented cash register, the turtle-shaped dumplings cooling on the counter. He looked at Kate—her tortoiseshell glasses slightly crooked, her eyes wet.
“You were very brave,” she said.
Norbit let out a long, shaky breath. “No,” he said. “I just finally decided to steer.”
That night, he and Kate ate cold dumplings on the boat dock, feet dangling over the black swamp water. The frogs sang. A heron glided overhead. And for the first time in his life, Norbit Jones didn’t feel like someone’s pudding pop.
He felt like himself.
And that was more than enough.
" (2007) is a polarizing romantic comedy that features Eddie Murphy in three distinct lead roles: the timid , his overbearing wife , and the orphanage owner
. Directed by Brian Robbins, the film centers on Norbit’s attempts to break free from his dysfunctional marriage to reclaim his life and childhood love. Production & Technical Achievements
Despite harsh critical reception, the film is often recognized for its advanced technical production: Oscar-Nominated Makeup: Legendary makeup artist Rick Baker
transformed Murphy into his various characters. The prosthetics were so effective the film received an Academy Award nomination for Best Makeup Seamless Special Effects:
To place Murphy's multiple characters in the same scenes, digital artists used techniques like "cloth deformation" and complex compositing to make interactions look natural. 3D Animation: The neighborhood dog, Lloyd (a pug played by Mushu from Men in Black
), was enhanced with 3D animation to allow it to "speak," using high-fidelity face-tracking data. Box Office & Reception
While the final version of the 2007 film Norbit is known for its slapstick humor and exaggerated characters, the original draft content was significantly more intense. Darker Tone and Draft Details
Early versions of the script were notably darker than the final comedy.
Severe Abuse: Actress Thandie Newton revealed that in the first draft she read, Rasputia’s treatment of Norbit was much more abusive and less "comedic" than what appeared on screen.
Script Origin: Eddie Murphy conceived the story after seeing internet videos of domestic disputes, which he initially found humorous but eventually evolved into the film's premise.
Draft Scenes: Some early draft outlines included a heavy focus on Norbit's early life at the orphanage, with specific scenes detailing "child labor concerns" played with a dark humorous twist. 🎭 Character & Production Drafts
Rasputia’s Design: The physical "draft" of the character involved a 34 kg (approx. 75 lb) fat suit. While the character claims to weigh 165 lbs in the film, the production designed her to appear closer to 350 lbs.
Face Replacement: In draft/test footage and complex scenes, Murphy used a stand-in whose face was later digitally replaced with his own using early CGI face-mapping.
Makeup Drafts: It took roughly 3 hours to apply the makeup for Rasputia and 2.5 hours for the character Mr. Wong for every day of filming. 🏛️ Norbit Technical "Draft" (Company)
If you were referring to the NORBIT technology company rather than the movie, "draft" usually refers to the water depth required for their sonar equipment:
Vessel Draft: The NORBIT WINGHEAD sonar system is often used on vessels with a 2.0-meter draft.
Installation Draft: Technical manuals recommend the sonar be immersed at least 0.7m below the waterline to avoid bubbles and turbulence. Trivia - Norbit (2007) - IMDb
Whether you know it as a cult comedy classic, a box-office giant, or a controversial piece of cinema history,
(2007) remains one of the most talked-about projects in Eddie Murphy’s career. The Triple-Threat Performance At its core,
is a showcase for Eddie Murphy’s "chameleon" ability to transform into multiple, vastly different characters. Helped by the Academy Award-nominated makeup effects of Rick Baker, Murphy portrayed: Norbit Albert Rice
: The mild-mannered, timid protagonist who has been bullied his entire life. Rasputia Latimore
: Norbit's overbearing, loud, and domineering wife who rules their household and neighborhood with an iron fist. Mr. Hangten Wong
: The eccentric, weapon-wielding owner of the "Golden Wonton" orphanage. A Story of Second Chances
The plot follows Norbit’s struggle to break free from his loveless and intimidating marriage to Rasputia after his childhood sweetheart, Kate Thomas
(played by Thandiwe Newton), returns to town. While Norbit schemes to win back his first love, he must navigate the threats of Rasputia’s muscular brothers—Jack, Blue, and Earl—who run a local extortion business. Impact and Legacy
Despite receiving a "Razzie sweep" from critics, the film was a massive commercial success, grossing approximately $159 million
worldwide. Over time, it has developed a polarized reputation:
Do you think critics were too hard on Eddie Murphy and ... - Facebook
To "put together a paper" on , you could be referring to a critical analysis of the 2007 Eddie Murphy film or a technical report on the hydrographic technology company.
Below are outlines for both perspectives to help you structure your work. Option 1: Film Analysis (The 2007 Movie)
This paper would focus on the cultural impact, comedic style, and controversies surrounding the film directed by Brian Robbins. Introduction : Briefly introduce
(2007) as a comedy where Eddie Murphy plays multiple roles, including the protagonist Norbit Rice and the antagonist Rasputia Latimore. Plot Overview
: Summarize the story of a shy orphan bullied into marriage by the domineering Rasputia, only to find a second chance at love with his childhood crush, Kate. Thematic Analysis The "Everyman" Struggle
: Norbit’s journey from a submissive husband to finding his own voice. Comedy vs. Controversy
: Discuss critics' views on the film's reliance on "crude, sexist, and racist humor" and its portrayal of body image. Technical Achievements
: Highlight the makeup and prosthetic work required to transform Murphy into his various characters. Conclusion
: Reflect on the film's legacy—it was a commercial success despite poor critical reception. Option 2: Technical/Business Paper (NORBIT ASA)
This paper would focus on the global technology company that specializes in high-end sonar and subsea systems.
The Multifaceted Life of Norbit: A Comedic Exploration
Released in 2007, "Norbit" is an American comedy film directed by Brian Robbins and written by Rob Burnett and Ed Decter. The movie stars Eddie Murphy in a triple-threat performance, playing the titular character, his childhood friend and bully, Rasputia, and the wealthy and beautiful woman, Latisha. The film follows Norbit Ryan (Eddie Murphy), a man who was once a chubby, awkward teenager and has now become a happily married man with a beautiful wife and two kids.
The Early Life of Norbit
The film begins with Norbit's childhood, where he faces constant bullying from Rasputia (also played by Eddie Murphy), a obese and brutal girl who consistently terrorizes him. The humiliation Norbit faces at the hands of Rasputia shapes his life and leads to a transformative moment when he meets and falls in love with a beautiful and charming woman named Latisha (played by Thandie Newton).
The Triple Threat Performance
The standout aspect of the film is undoubtedly Eddie Murphy's impressive performance, where he skillfully juggles three distinct characters. As Norbit, he portrays a kind-hearted and awkward man trying to navigate his life. As Rasputia, he embodies the character of a violent and manipulative bully. Finally, as Latisha, he brings to life a refined, confident, and elegant woman. Murphy's versatility as an actor shines through in his seamless transitions between the three roles.
Comedic Elements and Themes
The film explores a variety of comedic themes, including body image issues, childhood trauma, marriage, and identity. The comedic narrative leans on slapstick humor and situational comedy to explore Norbit's struggle to balance his current life with the unexpected return of Rasputia, now a wealthy and powerful businesswoman.
Impact and Reception
Upon its release, "Norbit" received mixed reviews from critics but performed well at the box office, grossing over $200 million worldwide. The movie remains a memorable comedic effort from Eddie Murphy, showcasing his comedic genius and his ability to play a wide range of characters.
Legacy and Cultural Impact
While "Norbit" may not have achieved critical acclaim, it holds a special place in the hearts of many viewers who appreciate Eddie Murphy's comedic prowess. The film serves as a reminder of the power of comedy to explore complex themes and to challenge societal norms. The movie's focus on body image, bullying, and the importance of staying true to oneself resonated with audiences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, "Norbit" is a comedy film that offers a blend of humor, heartfelt moments, and a standout performance from Eddie Murphy. Despite the mixed reviews, the film remains an enjoyable and thought-provoking watch, especially for fans of Eddie Murphy and comedy. The movie's exploration of themes such as marriage, identity, and overcoming childhood trauma makes it a relatable and entertaining experience.
Released in 2007, is a slapstick comedy film starring Eddie Murphy, who famously portrays three distinct lead characters through extensive prosthetic makeup. The film centers on Norbit Albert Rice, a mild-mannered man who must find the courage to stand up to his overbearing wife and her criminal family to win back his childhood sweetheart. 🎭 The Multi-Faceted Performance
Eddie Murphy’s performance is the cornerstone of the film, as he utilizes elaborate fat suits and prosthetics to play:
Norbit Rice: The shy, nerdy, and good-hearted protagonist raised in an orphanage.
Rasputia Latimore: Norbit’s aggressive, morbidly obese, and abusive wife who "saved" him from bullies as a child.
Mr. Hangten Wong: The elderly, eccentric Chinese restaurant owner and orphanage director who raised Norbit. Norbit (2007) - Plot - IMDb
, but it has also evolved into a specific industry term used during award seasons. The Film: Norbit (2007) Directed by Brian Robbins , the movie follows the life of Norbit Albert Rice
, a shy, mild-mannered orphan raised in a Chinese restaurant/orphanage by Mr. Wong.
Throwback to 2007!
Who else remembers the hilarious movie #Norbit starring Eddie Murphy?
In this comedy classic, Eddie Murphy plays Norbit, a nerdy and awkward man who was raised by his grandparents (played by Richard Dreyfuss and Cloris Leachman) after being abandoned by his parents.
As an adult, Norbit falls in love with a beautiful woman named Rasputia (also played by Eddie Murphy), who turns out to be super mean and controlling.
But things get even crazier when Norbit's childhood sweetheart, Astrid (played by Thandie Newton), comes back into his life and helps him to see Rasputia for who she really is.
This movie is full of laugh-out-loud moments, and Eddie Murphy's multiple roles are pure comedic genius!
So, who's ready for a nostalgic movie night with #Norbit?
Let me know in the comments if you have a favorite scene or quote from the movie!
"Norbit's a hilarious comedy about a man who was severely bullied as a kid. As an adult, he's still dealing with the aftermath. The twist? He's actually three people - himself, his childhood bully, and a seductive woman. When his childhood bully comes back into the picture, Norbit's life gets turned upside down."
Would you like more information about the movie?
Plot
The movie revolves around Norbit Ryan (played by Eddie Murphy), a man who was severely bullied as a child due to his obesity. To cope with his difficult life, Norbit creates an alternate personality named Rasputia, a large, intimidating, and foul-mouthed woman. As an adult, Norbit meets and falls in love with a beautiful woman named Nora (played by Thandie Newton). They get married and start a happy life together.
However, their happiness is disrupted when Rasputia, Norbit's childhood bully, returns to wreak havoc on their lives. Rasputia (also played by Eddie Murphy) is a huge, dominating, and obnoxious woman who terrorizes Norbit and Nora.
Main Characters
Themes
Reception
The movie received mixed reviews from critics but was a commercial success, grossing over $200 million worldwide.
Awards and Nominations
Impact
While the movie received mixed reviews, it has become a cult classic and is often referenced in popular culture.
Would you like to know more about the making of the movie or its cultural impact?
(2007) is a romantic comedy directed by Brian Robbins and starring Eddie Murphy, who also co-wrote and co-produced the film [8, 15]. The movie is well-known for Murphy’s "chameleon" performance, as he portrays three distinct lead characters through extensive use of prosthetics and fat suits [21, 18]. Plot Summary
The story follows Norbit Albert Rice, a mild-mannered orphan abandoned as an infant at a Chinese restaurant and orphanage run by the eccentric Mr. Wong (also played by Murphy) [4, 14].
The Marriage: As a child, Norbit is "rescued" from bullies by Rasputia Latimore (also played by Murphy), a domineering and abusive girl who forces him into a relationship [5, 6]. They eventually marry, and Norbit lives a miserable, "henpecked" life under the thumb of Rasputia and her three intimidating brothers [8, 10].
The Conflict: Norbit’s life changes when his childhood sweetheart, Kate Thomas (Thandiwe Newton), returns to town to buy the orphanage [8, 20]. Norbit realizes he is still in love with her but must find the courage to stand up to the Latimore family, who plan to turn the orphanage into a strip club [8, 24].
The Conclusion: After uncovering the fraudulent schemes of Kate's fiancé, Deion Hughes, and surviving various comedic attacks from the Latimores, Norbit finally "grows a spine" [12, 16]. The townspeople rebel against the Latimores, and Norbit marries Kate at the same tree where they played as children [12, 16]. Key Characters
Norbit Albert Rice (Eddie Murphy): The protagonist, described as highly intelligent but timid, naive, and often treated as a "butt-monkey" by those around him [7, 16].
Rasputia Latimore (Eddie Murphy): Norbit’s abusive, larger-than-life wife. She is depicted as arrogant and vindictive, frequently using her size and brothers to control Norbit [6, 26].
Mr. Wong (Eddie Murphy): The owner of the Golden Wonton orphanage who raised Norbit. Despite his own eccentricities and "politically incorrect" humor, he eventually helps Norbit defeat the Latimores [14, 18, 24].
Kate Thomas (Thandiwe Newton): Norbit's kind-hearted childhood friend and the object of his affection [21, 28]. Production & Reception
Special Effects: The film utilized advanced prosthetics to allow Murphy to play multiple roles simultaneously [18]. A stand-in actress, Lauren Miller, was used for Rasputia's body, and Murphy's face was later digitally added in post-production [34].
Critical vs. Commercial Success: Critically, the movie was panned and "earned" several Golden Raspberry Awards (Razzies) [15, 29]. However, it was a massive commercial success and even received an Academy Award nomination for Best Makeup and Hairstyling [15].
Controversy: The film sparked significant debate regarding its use of racial stereotypes and depictions of overweight women [17, 30]. Some critics and audiences found Rasputia and Mr. Wong to be offensive caricatures, while others viewed them as harmless slapstick exaggerations [17, 30].
Here is the secret that gets lost in the critical hate: Norbit was a commercial hit. Produced on a budget of $60 million, it grossed over $159 million worldwide. Opening weekend, it dethroned Hannibal Rising.
Why? Because audiences in 2007 wanted lowbrow, unpretentious comedy. They wanted to see Eddie Murphy do what he does best: disappear into a role. The disconnect between the critics (9%) and the audience (53% on RT) is massive. It wasn't a huge hit, but it was profitable enough that the studio didn’t regret it. That is, until... What makes Norbit technically fascinating is that Eddie