7 Minutes
Few stories in Hollywood encapsulate the unpredictable twists of awards season like Eddie Murphy’s near-win at the 2007 Academy Awards—and the now infamous release of 'Norbit.' This cultural moment not only redefined Oscar campaigns but also coined a term now familiar to film enthusiasts and industry insiders alike: the 'Norbit Effect.' Let’s journey through the highs and lows of Murphy’s Oscar hope, analyze 'Norbit’s' impact on film awards, and revisit the movies that shaped this iconic chapter.
The 'Norbit Effect': How One Movie Can Change Oscar Fortunes
When Entertainment Weekly first used the phrase 'Norbit Effect' in 2013, it struck a chord with movie and awards season followers worldwide. The concept? A poorly timed, negatively received film can ruin an actor’s shot at an Oscar—no matter how electrifying their prior performance might be. The phenomenon traces its roots to celebrity setbacks like Tom Hanks’ Punchline hurting his Big Oscar momentum in 1989 and, in 1996, Meryl Streep facing a critical dip thanks to Before and After overshadowing The Bridges of Madison County. But it was Eddie Murphy’s Oscar journey that cemented the legend.
Eddie Murphy’s Career: From Comedy Icon to Oscar Hopeful
Best known for game-changing classics—'Beverly Hills Cop', 'Coming to America', and 'The Nutty Professor'—Eddie Murphy has spent decades at the very heart of cinematic comedy. In 2006, Murphy delivered a transformative, scene-stealing performance as James 'Thunder' Early in 'Dreamgirls', a film adaptation of the celebrated Broadway musical. His portrayal of the flamboyant, troubled soul singer was a masterclass in blending comedy with genuine pathos. Critics raved, and awards began to pile up: a Golden Globe, a Screen Actors Guild Award, and the Broadcast Film Critics Association Award.
'Dreamgirls' and Oscar Buzz: Eddie’s Moment
The industry was convinced—Murphy was the frontrunner for Best Supporting Actor at the 79th Academy Awards. Alongside a stellar cast that included Beyoncé Knowles, Jennifer Hudson, and Jamie Foxx, 'Dreamgirls' soared, pulling in eight Oscar nominations and widespread acclaim for its vibrant musical numbers and period authenticity. Murphy’s nuanced performance was a standout, capturing both humor and heartbreak.
Plot Summary: 'Dreamgirls'
Based on the rise of Motown and singing sensations like The Supremes, 'Dreamgirls' follows three singers navigating the dazzling rise to stardom. Murphy’s character—James 'Thunder' Early—is an electrifying performer whose inner turmoil adds depth and realism to the glitzy world of 1960s rhythm and blues.
Then Came 'Norbit': Production, Plot, and Legacy
But as Murphy basked in the glow of awards buzz, his next project loomed on the horizon. 'Norbit,' co-written with his brother Charlie Murphy and directed by Brian Robbins, took an entirely different creative turn. Here, Eddie Murphy donned multiple roles: Norbit, a meek and luckless orphan; Rasputia, his domineering, outrageous wife; and even Mr. Wong, manager of the orphanage. The slapstick comedy courted controversy almost immediately for its broad stereotypes and over-the-top humor.
Plot Synopsis: 'Norbit'
'Norbit' tells the bizarre story of a gentle orphan (Murphy) raised in a Chinese orphanage who finds himself trapped in a hilariously toxic marriage to Rasputia, a character played with irrepressible gusto by Murphy himself. As Norbit dreams of reuniting with his childhood love, he faces a series of wild obstacles, including Rasputia’s outlandish family.
Cast and Crew
- Eddie Murphy as Norbit, Rasputia, and Mr. Wong
- Thandie Newton as Kate Thomas
- Cuba Gooding Jr. as Deion Hughes
- Terry Crews, Marlon Wayans, Eddie Griffin in supporting roles
The film’s eye-popping ad campaign, featuring Murphy as the brash Rasputia sprawled atop a cowering Norbit, became instantly recognizable—and equally divisive.
Production Notes
'Norbit' was conceived as a return to the outrageous, sketch-driven performances that made Murphy a superstar. Hoping to blend risky comedy with the success formula of his multi-role films, Murphy and the team shot the movie after Murphy’s acclaimed turn in 'Dreamgirls.'
Critical Reception: From Raves to Razzie Nods
The contrast in reception between 'Dreamgirls' and 'Norbit' couldn’t be more stark. 'Dreamgirls' was lauded as a musical cinematic gem, with its uplifting story and dazzling performances. Jennifer Hudson secured the Oscar for Best Supporting Actress, cementing the film’s place in movie history.
'Norbit,' on the other hand, was eviscerated by critics. With a dismal 9% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, the film was denounced for its offensive humor, tired gags, and predictable storyline. Accusations of racial stereotyping and offensive caricatures dominated entertainment headlines and Oscar chatter. One veteran Oscar consultant summed up industry sentiment: “Every time I pass that billboard, it makes me sick ... I think his performance in 'Dreamgirls' is so fabulous, but 'Norbit' definitely didn’t help his Oscar chances.”
Box Office Vs. Awards
Ironically, while 'Norbit' bombed with critics, it proved a financial success, grossing an impressive $159 million globally. Murphy’s core fans—longtime lovers of his fearless humor and boundary-pushing characters—flocked to cinemas.
Yet the timing was catastrophic from an awards perspective. Released during the height of Oscar voting, 'Norbit' cast a shadow over Murphy’s Oscar-worthy work in 'Dreamgirls.' Pundits and press alike speculated that 'Norbit’s' negative publicity and the so-called 'Norbit Effect' swayed enough voters to crush Murphy’s dreams of Academy gold. In the end, Alan Arkin won for 'Little Miss Sunshine.'
The Aftermath: Did 'Norbit' Hurt Eddie Murphy’s Career?
Following the awards season disappointment, Murphy addressed rumors about taking the loss hard: “I have a table full of awards ... it’s not like every time I was up for something, I got snubbed.” Still, there is no denying that Murphy slowed down his film output in the years after 'Norbit.' The film swept the infamous Razzie Awards for Worst Picture, Worst Actor, and Worst Actress—all for Murphy’s hilarious, if controversial, dual roles.
'Norbit' in Retrospect: A Divisive Comedy Legacy
Today, the 'Norbit Effect' remains a cautionary tale for actors and studios during awards season. The story of Eddie Murphy’s Oscar brush reminds movie fans everywhere just how much timing, marketing, and critical consensus can influence even the brightest stars. Despite the detour, Murphy’s legacy endures—'Dreamgirls' and his earlier classics continue to be beloved by viewers, while 'Norbit' holds a quirky place in film history as a box-office hit and an awards season what-if.
In the end, 'Norbit' might have cost Eddie Murphy his first Oscar, but it also fueled pop culture debate and solidified the unpredictable magic and heartbreak of the movies.
Comments