DESPITE STEREOTYPES NORBIT HAS SOME BIG LAUGHS

BY AARTI MAHARAJ

“You got a girlfriend? Well, you do now! Get your ass up and hold my hand!”

These were the first (and kindest words) used by Eddie Murphy’s abusive wife in his latest comical blunder, Norbit. Clearly, this was another one of Murphy’s make-up dependant movies in the vein of Dr. Doolittle and the Nutty Professor films. In this one, make-up—coupled with special visual effects—allows Murphy to showcase his talents by playing three different characters: Mr. Wong (right), Rasputia and the titular orphaned protagonist. 

In the role of Norbit Rice, Murphy dresses casual with glasses as thick as his afro hairstyle.  A soft voice compliments his under bite. His foster father, Mr. Wong, is a racist Asian American who is the owner of Golden Wonton Orphanage/Chinese Restaurant. The most analyzed and humorouss character, Norbit’s better half Rasputia, is best described as a plus-sized monster.  She is rivaled by Kate Thomas (Thandie Newton) who grew up with Norbit at the orphanage, then was adopted and, after many years, returns as a slim, outgoing and exciting. Judging from the role of these characters one can decipher that Murphy hints at certain stereotypes throughout the movie. 

At the screening of the movie, I noticed many corpulent and nerdy looking viewers who embraced Murphy’s many roles. However, Rasputia’s attitude of throwing Norbit through walls, her gyrating neck and her famous phrase “How you doin?” managed to capture the hearts of the audience, who managed to gloss over the stereotypes and enhanced the quality of the film. On the note of quality, alongside Murphy was Marlon Wayans, who brilliantly portrayed an aerobic dance instructor that Norbit found in bed with his wife, Rasputia. Adding to the strength of the comedy are Eddie Griffin and Katt Williams, who play the role of retired pimps who supported Norbit in his endeavors.