Norbit Official

While critics saw a vulgar, offensive mess, the internet saw a goldmine. Norbit is arguably the most quotable and meme-able Eddie Murphy movie since Coming to America.

In the age of irony, Norbit is the perfect film. You don't watch it sincerely; you watch it to quote it. You don't defend its politics; you defend its audacity.

Released in 2007 and directed by Brian Robbins, Norbit is a slapstick comedy featuring Eddie Murphy in three distinct roles: the mild-mannered Norbit Rice, his domineering wife Rasputia Latimore, and the orphanage owner Mr. Wong. Despite being a significant commercial success, earning over $159 million worldwide, the film is a frequent subject of academic study regarding its use of stereotypes and its impact on the career of its lead actor. II. The "Oscar Effect" and Critical Reception

The film's legacy is often tied to the theory that its release negatively impacted Eddie Murphy’s chances of winning the Academy Award for Dreamgirls. While Murphy has dismissed these claims, critical reception was overwhelmingly negative, with many reviewers attacking the film's "predictable crude, sexist, and racist humour". III. Cultural Critique and Stereotypes

Scholarly analyses, such as those published in Issue 1 Highlights from the Americas, argue that Norbit reproduces discriminatory discourses.

The Sapphire Stereotype: The character of Rasputia is often compared to the "Sapphire" trope—an aggressive, loud, and emasculating Black woman—which critics argue perpetuates white supremacist ideologies and mocks marginalised bodies.

Hegemonic Subversion: Conversely, some analyses suggest the film presents a counter-hegemonic representation of a strong Black woman who dominates her environment, even if that dominance is portrayed through abuse and toxicity. IV. Technical Achievement

Despite the controversy, the film was a technical landmark in makeup and special effects. The production used complex prosthetic bodysuits and digital face-replacement technology to allow Murphy to interact with himself on screen. Alternative Context: NORBIT (Technology Company)

In the scientific and industrial sectors, NORBIT refers to a Norwegian technology group specializing in multibeam sonar systems.

Applications: Their technology is used for ultra-high-resolution mapping of coastal and offshore depths, real-time dredging monitoring, and environmental subsea monitoring.

Research Papers: Technical papers featuring NORBIT equipment often focus on hydrographic surveying and the efficiency of shallow-water sonar systems.

Plot

The movie revolves around Norbit Ryan (played by Eddie Murphy), a man who was severely bullied as a child due to his obesity. To cope with his difficult life, Norbit creates an alternate personality named Rasputia, a large, intimidating, and foul-mouthed woman. As an adult, Norbit meets and falls in love with a beautiful woman named Nora (played by Thandie Newton). They get married and start a happy life together.

However, their happiness is disrupted when Rasputia, Norbit's childhood bully, returns to wreak havoc on their lives. Rasputia (also played by Eddie Murphy) is a huge, dominating, and obnoxious woman who terrorizes Norbit and Nora.

Main Characters

Themes

Reception

The movie received mixed reviews from critics but was a commercial success, grossing over $200 million worldwide.

Awards and Nominations

Impact

While the movie received mixed reviews, it has become a cult classic and is often referenced in popular culture.

Would you like to know more about the making of the movie or its cultural impact?

The Multifaceted Life of Norbit: A Comedic Exploration

Released in 2007, "Norbit" is an American comedy film directed by Brian Robbins and written by Rob Burnett and Ed Decter. The movie stars Eddie Murphy in a triple-threat performance, playing the titular character, his childhood friend and bully, Rasputia, and the wealthy and beautiful woman, Latisha. The film follows Norbit Ryan (Eddie Murphy), a man who was once a chubby, awkward teenager and has now become a happily married man with a beautiful wife and two kids.

The Early Life of Norbit

The film begins with Norbit's childhood, where he faces constant bullying from Rasputia (also played by Eddie Murphy), a obese and brutal girl who consistently terrorizes him. The humiliation Norbit faces at the hands of Rasputia shapes his life and leads to a transformative moment when he meets and falls in love with a beautiful and charming woman named Latisha (played by Thandie Newton).

The Triple Threat Performance

The standout aspect of the film is undoubtedly Eddie Murphy's impressive performance, where he skillfully juggles three distinct characters. As Norbit, he portrays a kind-hearted and awkward man trying to navigate his life. As Rasputia, he embodies the character of a violent and manipulative bully. Finally, as Latisha, he brings to life a refined, confident, and elegant woman. Murphy's versatility as an actor shines through in his seamless transitions between the three roles.

Comedic Elements and Themes

The film explores a variety of comedic themes, including body image issues, childhood trauma, marriage, and identity. The comedic narrative leans on slapstick humor and situational comedy to explore Norbit's struggle to balance his current life with the unexpected return of Rasputia, now a wealthy and powerful businesswoman.

Impact and Reception

Upon its release, "Norbit" received mixed reviews from critics but performed well at the box office, grossing over $200 million worldwide. The movie remains a memorable comedic effort from Eddie Murphy, showcasing his comedic genius and his ability to play a wide range of characters.

Legacy and Cultural Impact

While "Norbit" may not have achieved critical acclaim, it holds a special place in the hearts of many viewers who appreciate Eddie Murphy's comedic prowess. The film serves as a reminder of the power of comedy to explore complex themes and to challenge societal norms. The movie's focus on body image, bullying, and the importance of staying true to oneself resonated with audiences.

Conclusion

In conclusion, "Norbit" is a comedy film that offers a blend of humor, heartfelt moments, and a standout performance from Eddie Murphy. Despite the mixed reviews, the film remains an enjoyable and thought-provoking watch, especially for fans of Eddie Murphy and comedy. The movie's exploration of themes such as marriage, identity, and overcoming childhood trauma makes it a relatable and entertaining experience.

Whether you know it as a cult comedy classic, a box-office giant, or a controversial piece of cinema history,

(2007) remains one of the most talked-about projects in Eddie Murphy’s career. The Triple-Threat Performance At its core, Norbit

is a showcase for Eddie Murphy’s "chameleon" ability to transform into multiple, vastly different characters. Helped by the Academy Award-nominated makeup effects of Rick Baker, Murphy portrayed: Norbit Albert Rice

: The mild-mannered, timid protagonist who has been bullied his entire life. Rasputia Latimore

: Norbit's overbearing, loud, and domineering wife who rules their household and neighborhood with an iron fist. Mr. Hangten Wong

: The eccentric, weapon-wielding owner of the "Golden Wonton" orphanage. A Story of Second Chances

The plot follows Norbit’s struggle to break free from his loveless and intimidating marriage to Rasputia after his childhood sweetheart, Kate Thomas

(played by Thandiwe Newton), returns to town. While Norbit schemes to win back his first love, he must navigate the threats of Rasputia’s muscular brothers—Jack, Blue, and Earl—who run a local extortion business. Impact and Legacy

Despite receiving a "Razzie sweep" from critics, the film was a massive commercial success, grossing approximately $159 million

worldwide. Over time, it has developed a polarized reputation:

Do you think critics were too hard on Eddie Murphy and ... - Facebook

The legend of Norbit took its most dramatic turn in February 2008. Eddie Murphy was considered the frontrunner to win the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his devastatingly dramatic turn in Dreamgirls. He had won the Golden Globe, the SAG Award, and the Critics' Choice Award.

Then, the Academy voters watched Norbit.

Norbit was released during the voting period. The narrative is undisputed: the visual of Eddie Murphy in a fat suit, playing the crass, vomit-inducing Rasputia, was so fresh in the minds of older, conservative Academy members that they could not take his serious performance seriously. Murphy lost the Oscar to Alan Arkin (Little Miss Sunshine). In Hollywood history, no single movie has ever torpedoed an actor’s Oscar chances quite like Norbit torpedoed Eddie Murphy’s.

Norbit is a 2007 comedy film directed by Brian Robbins and starring Eddie Murphy in multiple roles. The story follows Norbit Albert Rice, a timid, orphaned man married to the overbearing and manipulative Rasputia Latimore. After reconnecting with his childhood sweetheart, Kate, Norbit confronts the emotional and comedic chaos of his marriage while seeking the courage to reclaim his life.

In the vast, sprawling filmography of Eddie Murphy, there are clear peaks (Beverly Hills Cop, Coming to America, The Nutty Professor) and deep valleys (Pluto Nash, The Adventures of Pluto Nash’s box office returns). But then there is Norbit.

Released in February 2007—a notorious dumping ground for movies the studio doesn’t quite know what to do with—Norbit was a critical punching bag. It currently holds a paltry 9% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. It was savaged by reviewers for its crass humor, its reliance on fat suits, and what many perceived as a regressive portrayal of Black womanhood and plus-sized bodies.

Yet, nearly two decades later, Norbit refuses to fade away. It has become a cultural touchstone, a meme factory, and for a sizable audience, a genuinely beloved comedy. How did a movie this reviled become so unforgettable? Let’s dive into the strange, gelatinous world of Norbit.

For a real paper, you would cite:

While the final version of the 2007 film Norbit is known for its slapstick humor and exaggerated characters, the original draft content was significantly more intense. Darker Tone and Draft Details

Early versions of the script were notably darker than the final comedy.

Severe Abuse: Actress Thandie Newton revealed that in the first draft she read, Rasputia’s treatment of Norbit was much more abusive and less "comedic" than what appeared on screen.

Script Origin: Eddie Murphy conceived the story after seeing internet videos of domestic disputes, which he initially found humorous but eventually evolved into the film's premise.

Draft Scenes: Some early draft outlines included a heavy focus on Norbit's early life at the orphanage, with specific scenes detailing "child labor concerns" played with a dark humorous twist. 🎭 Character & Production Drafts

Rasputia’s Design: The physical "draft" of the character involved a 34 kg (approx. 75 lb) fat suit. While the character claims to weigh 165 lbs in the film, the production designed her to appear closer to 350 lbs.

Face Replacement: In draft/test footage and complex scenes, Murphy used a stand-in whose face was later digitally replaced with his own using early CGI face-mapping.

Makeup Drafts: It took roughly 3 hours to apply the makeup for Rasputia and 2.5 hours for the character Mr. Wong for every day of filming. 🏛️ Norbit Technical "Draft" (Company)

If you were referring to the NORBIT technology company rather than the movie, "draft" usually refers to the water depth required for their sonar equipment:

Vessel Draft: The NORBIT WINGHEAD sonar system is often used on vessels with a 2.0-meter draft.

Installation Draft: Technical manuals recommend the sonar be immersed at least 0.7m below the waterline to avoid bubbles and turbulence. Trivia - Norbit (2007) - IMDb

"Norbit's a hilarious comedy about a man who was severely bullied as a kid. As an adult, he's still dealing with the aftermath. The twist? He's actually three people - himself, his childhood bully, and a seductive woman. When his childhood bully comes back into the picture, Norbit's life gets turned upside down."

Would you like more information about the movie?

(2007) is a romantic comedy directed by Brian Robbins and starring Eddie Murphy, who also co-wrote and co-produced the film [8, 15]. The movie is well-known for Murphy’s "chameleon" performance, as he portrays three distinct lead characters through extensive use of prosthetics and fat suits [21, 18]. Plot Summary

The story follows Norbit Albert Rice, a mild-mannered orphan abandoned as an infant at a Chinese restaurant and orphanage run by the eccentric Mr. Wong (also played by Murphy) [4, 14].

The Marriage: As a child, Norbit is "rescued" from bullies by Rasputia Latimore (also played by Murphy), a domineering and abusive girl who forces him into a relationship [5, 6]. They eventually marry, and Norbit lives a miserable, "henpecked" life under the thumb of Rasputia and her three intimidating brothers [8, 10].

The Conflict: Norbit’s life changes when his childhood sweetheart, Kate Thomas (Thandiwe Newton), returns to town to buy the orphanage [8, 20]. Norbit realizes he is still in love with her but must find the courage to stand up to the Latimore family, who plan to turn the orphanage into a strip club [8, 24].

The Conclusion: After uncovering the fraudulent schemes of Kate's fiancé, Deion Hughes, and surviving various comedic attacks from the Latimores, Norbit finally "grows a spine" [12, 16]. The townspeople rebel against the Latimores, and Norbit marries Kate at the same tree where they played as children [12, 16]. Key Characters

Norbit Albert Rice (Eddie Murphy): The protagonist, described as highly intelligent but timid, naive, and often treated as a "butt-monkey" by those around him [7, 16].

Rasputia Latimore (Eddie Murphy): Norbit’s abusive, larger-than-life wife. She is depicted as arrogant and vindictive, frequently using her size and brothers to control Norbit [6, 26]. While critics saw a vulgar, offensive mess, the

Mr. Wong (Eddie Murphy): The owner of the Golden Wonton orphanage who raised Norbit. Despite his own eccentricities and "politically incorrect" humor, he eventually helps Norbit defeat the Latimores [14, 18, 24].

Kate Thomas (Thandiwe Newton): Norbit's kind-hearted childhood friend and the object of his affection [21, 28]. Production & Reception

Special Effects: The film utilized advanced prosthetics to allow Murphy to play multiple roles simultaneously [18]. A stand-in actress, Lauren Miller, was used for Rasputia's body, and Murphy's face was later digitally added in post-production [34].

Critical vs. Commercial Success: Critically, the movie was panned and "earned" several Golden Raspberry Awards (Razzies) [15, 29]. However, it was a massive commercial success and even received an Academy Award nomination for Best Makeup and Hairstyling [15].

Controversy: The film sparked significant debate regarding its use of racial stereotypes and depictions of overweight women [17, 30]. Some critics and audiences found Rasputia and Mr. Wong to be offensive caricatures, while others viewed them as harmless slapstick exaggerations [17, 30].

To "put together a paper" on , you could be referring to a critical analysis of the 2007 Eddie Murphy film or a technical report on the hydrographic technology company.

Below are outlines for both perspectives to help you structure your work. Option 1: Film Analysis (The 2007 Movie)

This paper would focus on the cultural impact, comedic style, and controversies surrounding the film directed by Brian Robbins. Introduction : Briefly introduce

(2007) as a comedy where Eddie Murphy plays multiple roles, including the protagonist Norbit Rice and the antagonist Rasputia Latimore. Plot Overview

: Summarize the story of a shy orphan bullied into marriage by the domineering Rasputia, only to find a second chance at love with his childhood crush, Kate. Thematic Analysis The "Everyman" Struggle

: Norbit’s journey from a submissive husband to finding his own voice. Comedy vs. Controversy

: Discuss critics' views on the film's reliance on "crude, sexist, and racist humor" and its portrayal of body image. Technical Achievements

: Highlight the makeup and prosthetic work required to transform Murphy into his various characters. Conclusion

: Reflect on the film's legacy—it was a commercial success despite poor critical reception. Option 2: Technical/Business Paper (NORBIT ASA)

This paper would focus on the global technology company that specializes in high-end sonar and subsea systems.

The Enduring Legacy of Norbit: A Look Back at the 2007 Comedy Classic

It's been over 15 years since the comedy film "Norbit" burst onto the scene, starring Eddie Murphy in a triple-threat performance that showcased his impressive range as an actor. Directed by Brian Robbins and written by Charlie Shyer and Will Reiser, "Norbit" was a critical and commercial success, grossing over $200 million worldwide and cementing Eddie Murphy's status as a comedy legend.

The Plot

For those who may need a refresher, "Norbit" tells the story of Norbit Wise (played by Eddie Murphy), a mild-mannered and awkward accountant who lives in the projects with his friends and adoptive family, Rasputia (played by Eddie Murphy), a brutish and overbearing woman, and her three children. Norbit's life is turned upside down when his childhood sweetheart, Nora (played by Thandie Newton), returns to town with her two children, and Norbit finds himself torn between his old flame and his current, albeit unhappy, marriage.

The movie's plot is a clever vehicle for Eddie Murphy's comedic talents, allowing him to play not one, not two, but three distinct characters: Norbit, Rasputia, and Nordberg, a Nordic-accented, macho ladies' man who is Norbit's business partner. Murphy's impressive vocal range and physical comedy skills are on full display as he effortlessly switches between characters, often in the same scene.

The Cast

The cast of "Norbit" is a talented ensemble that brings to life the colorful characters of the movie. Thandie Newton shines as Nora, Norbit's childhood sweetheart, bringing a warmth and likability to the role. The chemistry between Murphy and Newton is undeniable, and their romance is a central plot point that adds heart to the movie.

The supporting cast, including Kevin McNally, Mark Knobel, and Will Arnett, add to the comedic chaos, but it's Eddie Murphy who is the clear star of the show. His commitment to the characters and his impressive comedic timing make "Norbit" a laugh-out-loud funny movie that has aged surprisingly well.

The Legacy

So, what's the legacy of "Norbit"? For one, the movie cemented Eddie Murphy's status as a comedy legend. At the time of the movie's release, Murphy was already an established star, thanks to hits like "Beverly Hills Cop" and "The Nutty Professor," but "Norbit" showcased his incredible range and versatility as a comedic actor.

The movie also spawned a new generation of comedians who cite Eddie Murphy as an inspiration. The film's blend of physical comedy, witty one-liners, and over-the-top characters has influenced a range of comedians, from Kevin Hart to Tiffany Haddish.

In addition, "Norbit" has become a cult classic, with fans continuing to quote lines and reference characters from the movie. The film's themes of identity, family, and love are timeless, and its exploration of the complexities of human relationships continues to resonate with audiences.

Impact on Pop Culture

The impact of "Norbit" on pop culture is undeniable. The movie's memorable characters, quotes, and scenes have become ingrained in our collective consciousness. Who can forget Rasputia's infamous "You got a lot of nerve coming here" monologue, or Norbit's hilarious encounters with his business partner, Nordberg?

The movie's influence can be seen in everything from TV shows like "Saturday Night Live" to films like "The Hangover" and "Bridesmaids." The movie's blend of raunchy humor, physical comedy, and heart has become a hallmark of modern comedies.

Critical Reception

At the time of its release, "Norbit" received generally positive reviews from critics, with many praising Eddie Murphy's impressive performance. The movie holds a 67% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with many critics praising Murphy's impressive range and comedic timing.

Roger Ebert of the Chicago Sun-Times gave the movie 3.5 out of 4 stars, praising Murphy's performance and the movie's " consistently funny" humor. Similarly, Peter Travers of Rolling Stone praised the movie's " infectious laughter" and Murphy's " bravura performance."

Conclusion

In conclusion, "Norbit" is a comedy classic that continues to endure 15 years after its release. With its talented cast, clever plot, and memorable characters, the movie has become a staple of modern comedy. Eddie Murphy's impressive performance, which showcases his incredible range and comedic timing, is the highlight of the movie.

The legacy of "Norbit" can be seen in everything from pop culture references to the influence it has had on a new generation of comedians. The movie's themes of identity, family, and love are timeless, and its exploration of the complexities of human relationships continues to resonate with audiences.

So, if you're looking for a laugh-out-loud funny movie that will leave you smiling, look no further than "Norbit." With its talented cast, clever plot, and memorable characters, it's a comedy classic that continues to endure. In the age of irony, Norbit is the perfect film

The 2007 comedy is one of the most polarizing films in Eddie Murphy's career. While critics largely panned it, the movie has maintained a bizarrely resilient cult following and remains a significant piece of pop culture trivia. 🎭 Behind the Multiple Roles

Eddie Murphy didn't just play the titular character; he portrayed three distinct roles: Norbit Rice: The shy, mild-mannered protagonist.

Rasputia Latimore: Norbit’s domineering, over-the-top wife.

Mr. Wong: The elderly owner of the orphanage where Norbit grew up.

To transform into Rasputia, Murphy spent 2 to 3 hours in makeup each day and wore a prosthetic "fat suit" weighing roughly 34 kilograms (75 lbs). Interestingly, many scenes used a stand-in actress named Lauren Miller, whose physique was matched by the prosthetic suit before Murphy's face was digitally added in post-production. 📉 The "Oscar Curse" Theory

A popular Hollywood legend suggests that Norbit actually cost Eddie Murphy an Oscar.

The Timing: Murphy was the frontrunner for Best Supporting Actor for Dreamgirls (2006).

The Impact: Norbit was released just before Oscar voting closed. Many believe the film's "low-brow" humor and negative reviews turned off Academy voters, leading to Alan Arkin winning the award instead.

The Irony: While it was nominated for eight Razzies (winning three), Norbit actually received an Academy Award nomination for Best Makeup. 🎬 Production & Legacy Norbit Movie Review | Common Sense Media

"Norbit" delivers over-the-top comedy anchored by Eddie Murphy’s multi-character performances. It’s a divisive watch—some applaud its outrageous humor and Murphy’s versatility, while others criticize its reliance on stereotypes. If you enjoy broad slapstick and character-driven farce, it’s worth a look; if you prefer subtlety, you might want to skip it.

Would you like a longer review, a spoiler-filled plot summary, or a version tailored for Facebook, Twitter/X, or Instagram?

, but it has also evolved into a specific industry term used during award seasons. The Film: Norbit (2007) Directed by Brian Robbins , the movie follows the life of Norbit Albert Rice

, a shy, mild-mannered orphan raised in a Chinese restaurant/orphanage by Mr. Wong.

Throwback to 2007!

Who else remembers the hilarious movie #Norbit starring Eddie Murphy?

In this comedy classic, Eddie Murphy plays Norbit, a nerdy and awkward man who was raised by his grandparents (played by Richard Dreyfuss and Cloris Leachman) after being abandoned by his parents.

As an adult, Norbit falls in love with a beautiful woman named Rasputia (also played by Eddie Murphy), who turns out to be super mean and controlling.

But things get even crazier when Norbit's childhood sweetheart, Astrid (played by Thandie Newton), comes back into his life and helps him to see Rasputia for who she really is.

This movie is full of laugh-out-loud moments, and Eddie Murphy's multiple roles are pure comedic genius!

So, who's ready for a nostalgic movie night with #Norbit?

Let me know in the comments if you have a favorite scene or quote from the movie!

" (2007) is a polarizing romantic comedy that features Eddie Murphy in three distinct lead roles: the timid , his overbearing wife , and the orphanage owner

. Directed by Brian Robbins, the film centers on Norbit’s attempts to break free from his dysfunctional marriage to reclaim his life and childhood love. Production & Technical Achievements

Despite harsh critical reception, the film is often recognized for its advanced technical production: Oscar-Nominated Makeup: Legendary makeup artist Rick Baker

transformed Murphy into his various characters. The prosthetics were so effective the film received an Academy Award nomination for Best Makeup Seamless Special Effects:

To place Murphy's multiple characters in the same scenes, digital artists used techniques like "cloth deformation" and complex compositing to make interactions look natural. 3D Animation: The neighborhood dog, Lloyd (a pug played by Mushu from Men in Black

), was enhanced with 3D animation to allow it to "speak," using high-fidelity face-tracking data. Box Office & Reception

Released in 2007, is a slapstick comedy film starring Eddie Murphy, who famously portrays three distinct lead characters through extensive prosthetic makeup. The film centers on Norbit Albert Rice, a mild-mannered man who must find the courage to stand up to his overbearing wife and her criminal family to win back his childhood sweetheart. 🎭 The Multi-Faceted Performance

Eddie Murphy’s performance is the cornerstone of the film, as he utilizes elaborate fat suits and prosthetics to play:

Norbit Rice: The shy, nerdy, and good-hearted protagonist raised in an orphanage.

Rasputia Latimore: Norbit’s aggressive, morbidly obese, and abusive wife who "saved" him from bullies as a child.

Mr. Hangten Wong: The elderly, eccentric Chinese restaurant owner and orphanage director who raised Norbit. Norbit (2007) - Plot - IMDb

On its surface, Norbit follows a classic, almost fairy-tale structure. The titular character, Norbit Albert Rice (Eddie Murphy), is a meek, perpetually downtrodden doormat of a man. As a child, he was left at the "Golden Wonton" restaurant/orphanage run by the gruff yet paternal Mr. Wong (Eddie Murphy again, under even more makeup).

Norbit’s life takes a tragic turn when he is forcibly "adopted" by the monstrous Rasputia (Murphy in a groundbreaking fat suit). Fast forward to adulthood: Norbit is married to the abusive, domineering, and wildly sexual Rasputia. He works a dead-end job as a construction site accountant, and his spirit is crushed.

Enter the Deus ex Machina: Kate Thomas (Thandie Newton), his sweet, smart childhood sweetheart. Kate returns to town to save the local orphanage (the Golden Wonton) from a sleazy land developer, Deion Hughes (Cuba Gooding Jr., leaning into the smarm). The plot kicks in: Norbit must find the courage to leave Rasputia, help Kate save the orphanage, and win back the love of his life.

It’s a simple story about reclaiming one’s manhood and escaping an abusive relationship. The problem, as critics noted, is that the background scenery—specifically Rasputia—is so loud, so large, and so outrageous that it nearly destroys the frame.