Dolemite Is My Name: Eddie's Return

Dolemite Is My Name stars Eddie Murphy as 70s comedian Rudy Ray Moore. Moore is a failed singer and comedian who uses influence from hobos to relaunch himself into the foul-mouthed character of Dolemite. Audiences love him which leads to him and his friends making a movie around his iconic character. They take advantage of the 1970s Blaxploitation craze. Dolemite Is My Name is the start of Murphy's comeback that will all unfold this year. The movie is fun and explores the challenges black entertainers have faced and still face in Hollywood. It is also a terrific Eddie Murphy performance and reminds audiences why they love Eddie Murphy.


The film begins with Moore working in a record store attempting to get his records on the radio. After growing tired of his rejection and being an opener at a club, Moore goes to the homeless people he finds funny and begins crafting jokes based on their foul humor. He practices and perfects their stories which leads to him creating the character of Dolemite, an alter ego from himself who is more flashy and vulgar. He then turns into a salesman by selling his comedy record in his car and at the record store. He has found his way into the entertainment business and an audience for his profane humor. Moore is extremely hardworking and does what he needs to do to achieve his dreams throughout the film.


The movie warms hearts and features an extraordinary ensemble of Keegan-Michael Key, Wesley Snipes, Craig Robinson, Mike Epps, and Tituss Burgess. All the characters have confidence and are able to be performers. A majority of the film focuses on the making of his film that draws heavy influences on other films. The movie was filled with many laughs and heartfelt moments especially between Moore and his female costar, Lady Reed. There was chemistry between the entire group and it was obvious they all had a good time playing these parts together. It was a team effort to put together the film with his friends and the UCLA film students devoting their time and efforts to bringing Dolemite to the big screen. Even in times of hardship Moore still pushed for his dreams and never gave up on them. Dolemite faced a lot of odds of getting made but emphasizes the joy of making art.


Dolemite Is My Name is a much watch. It is an inspiring story of a guy who never gives up when faced with challenges. He is not in the mainstream but works hard to gain representation of people like him. Eddie Murphy and his ensemble absolutely killed it in their roles and this film. They weren't going for exact imitations of their characters that are usually seen in a biopic they played them as they thought they should be played. This film is excellent and has launched Eddie back into comedy.