Coming to America (1988) Review in 2025
A hilarious comedy about a prince from a fictional African country who comes to the United States to find a bride, but ends up falling in love with a humble woman.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
This movie is suitable for all ages, but some scenes may be too mature for very young children.
CineReview Recommendation
This movie is a must-watch for fans of comedy and romance, and is suitable for streaming or watching in theaters.
Spoiler Alert!
Hover to reveal spoiler summary
Prince Akeem Joffer, a prince from the fictional African country of Zamunda, travels to the United States to find a bride, but falls in love with a humble woman named Lisa McDowell, and hilarity ensues as he navigates American culture and tries to win her heart.
Review Details
story8.00/10
The story is engaging and funny, with a unique premise that explores cultural differences and fish-out-of-water situations.
acting9.00/10
The acting is superb, with Eddie Murphy delivering a hilarious and charismatic performance, and the supporting cast delivering solid performances as well.
characters9.00/10
The characters are well-developed and memorable, with Eddie Murphy delivering a standout performance as Prince Akeem.
direction8.50/10
John Landis' direction is witty and engaging, with a keen eye for comedic timing and a deep understanding of the characters' motivations.
cinematography7.00/10
The cinematography is decent, but not particularly noteworthy, with some scenes feeling a bit dated and lacking in visual flair.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The movie's unique premise, engaging story, and memorable characters make it a standout comedy of the 80s.
Cons
The cinematography is a bit dated, and some scenes may feel a bit too long or slow-paced.
Notable Quotes
"I'm not a vegetarian because I love animals. I'm a vegetarian because I hate plants."
"You know, I've been thinking, and I've come to the realization that I'm not a prince. I'm a king."
"You're looking for a woman with a big heart, and I'm looking for a woman with a small waist."
