Man, was I not ready for this trip! Dolemite is My Name, starring Eddie Murphy, Wesley Snipes, Keegan Michael-Key, Titus Burgess and Da’vine Joy Randolph takes you on a journey from beginning to end, with a spectacular performance from Eddie Murphy as Rudy Ray Moore, the man behind the infamous Dolemite. It’s a heartwarming film about raunchy comedy, the strength of community and one hell of an underdog story as an aging Moore begins to develop the Dolemite character and risks it all to make records and his first film. The film, like Murphy’s portrayal of Moore, is indefatigable in its charisma and will not rest until you are thoroughly charmed by it.
The film starts with Moore’s circumstances: an aging comedian, working his day job ten years later, seeking the world’s recognition and only offering up the past. As he is inspired by the culture around him, he begins to learn a new beat and switches up his routine to feature a character called Dolemite to strong success. Enamored with the response, he sets out to conquer the entertainment world, even if he has to do it all himself.
Now I knew that I lacked quite a bit of the social context here: outside of reading a few articles over the past few years and hearing some of the old radio ads, I didn’t know much about Moore and Dolemite. Murphy’s portrayal of both the man and the character were riveting enough that prior knowledge isn’t necessary to empathize with his struggle and appreciate his work. With how much hubbub is always made for films about filmmaking, this film got a lot of attention for Eddie Murphy alone. While he deserves the acknowledgement, the ensemble around him with Mike Epps, Titus Burgess, Da’Vine Joy Randolph, and Craig Robinson bring a levity to the film that should be commended. Titus Burgess is a shining supporter, with great moments and looks that speak volumes. Wesley Snipes plays a fantastic foil to Moore, and even cameos by Chris Rock and Bob Odenkirk hit their mark without being too off-putting. Performances are well coached by director Craig Brewer (Hustle & Flow) and the film stays tight and well paced until the end.
The soundtrack and audio work in this film is absolutely integral to the character of the film. Opening on Marvin Gaye and digging deep into the music of the 70’s sets the tone and never lets up. The costuming and use of color everywhere in the set design do more than remind you of its era, but have its own character and feel. There’s really not a single part of this film that doesn’t do its job to help you connect to the story being told.
I came into the film optimistic but unsure, and come out of it with a need to watch some of Moore’s films now myself. Hilarious, rewarding, and inspiring, it’s a certain rewatch film, and I’ll feel good watching it every time.
Rating: 5/5
Thoroughly enjoyed, and would certainly rewatch.
This review is part of the CoronaReviews, a series of quick reviews I’m going to write to stay sane while I wait for the COVID-19 shutdowns to end. I’ve got a long list of films I desperately need to catch up on, but if you have suggestions or commentary, comment below! I’d love to discuss it with you so I don’t lose my mind here by myself.