Like you, I have been to hundreds of theatres and watched tons of movies. From Cleopatra to Avengers: Age of Ultron, Hollywood has produced so many great films. However, the best picture of all time is Coming to America.
The first thing you'll like about the romantic comedy is the African setting. Here, we discover the kingdom of Kamandu on Prince Akim's birthday. The introduction quickly shows off the customs and culture of this rich but isolated world.
As you follow the desire of this rich but humble Akim, you are lured into a rags-to-riches story. The twisted irony is the clear distinction made between rich American Dreamers and royalty.
What is Coming to America About
Another element you won't miss is the contrast between true romantic love and money. As Akim seeks a queen, he falls in love with his boss's unsuspecting daughter. He must now overcome a social barrier and win his boss' approval.
Interestingly, this does not become easier as the sister falls in love with Akim, and a double date shows how far she is ready to go. The prince must now overcome her petty love and confront his servant, who wants to go back home as soon as possible.
However, a comedy is supposed to make you laugh, and that is what sets Coming to America apart. The jokes are subtle and clean, and you will be roaring from start to finish.
Finally, the movie gets a thumbs-up because of its actors. Featuring popular comedians like Arsenio Hall, the film is promoted by Eddie Murphy and Shirley McClean. Award-winning actors such as James Earl Jones and Paul Bates fill the roles. Samuel L. Jackson even appears in the film to add some action.
Rating The Coming to America Years Later
As we grow older, some of the things we hold dear may suddenly lose value. That is why it was necessary to re-evaluate Comig to America. In 2025, Paramount Movies transformed the comedy to fit Ultra HD and Digital formats.
The rerelease was equally welcomed by fans around the world, and soon, reviews from critics swelled in quickly. Rotten Tomatoes and IMDb scored it 73% and 7.1, respectively.
Coming to America is one of those movies that you must watch or see again.