Write about how Coming to America (1988) the film relates to Blackness and how does it help in writing tools and techniques
Coming to America (1988), directed by John Landis, is a classic romantic comedy that tells the story of an African prince, Akeem Joffer (played by Eddie Murphy), who travels to New York City in search of true love. While the film is primarily a lighthearted and humorous portrayal of the fish-out-of-water experience, it also explores themes of Blackness and employs various writing tools and techniques to critique societal norms and stereotypes.
One of the ways Coming to America relates to Blackness is through its representation of African culture. The film depicts Zamunda, Akeem's fictional African homeland, as a place of opulence, tradition, and grandeur. This portrayal challenges the prevailing narrative of Africa as a poverty-stricken and backward continent, often perpetuated by media. By showcasing the richness and beauty of African customs and traditions, the movie celebrates African heritage and challenges the notion that Blackness is solely associated with struggle or poverty.
Furthermore, Coming to America explores the complexities of navigating Blackness in an American context. Akeem, as a wealthy African prince, experiences both admiration and misconceptions from the American characters he encounters. This allows the film to critique racial stereotypes within American society, as Akeem challenges preconceived notions of what it means to be Black.
In terms of writing tools and techniques, Coming to America employs satire to critique social norms and challenge stereotypes. The film satirizes the superficiality and materialism of American culture through the characters of Akeem and his loyal friend Semmi (played by Arsenio Hall). Their contrasting perspectives on love and relationships, prioritizing genuine connections over wealth and status, serve as a critique of the shallow values often associated with American society.
Additionally, the film makes clever use of humor to tackle racial and cultural stereotypes. Eddie Murphy's comedic prowess shines through multiple roles he plays in the film, including a comical barbershop scene where Murphy portrays several humorously exaggerated characters. The scene not only showcases Murphy's comedic range, but also serves as a commentary on the diversity within the Black community itself, thereby challenging the notion of a monolithic Black identity.
Moreover, Coming to America employs the technique of storytelling and character development to explore the theme of Blackness. Akeem's journey from Zamunda to Queens, New York allows him to discover his own identity beyond his title and social status. Through his encounters with various characters, Akeem learns about the struggles and triumphs of being Black in America, ultimately gaining a deeper appreciation for his own heritage and the importance of authenticity.
In conclusion, Coming to America (1988) is not only a hilarious romantic comedy but also a thought-provoking exploration of Blackness and cultural identity. Through its representation of African culture, critique of stereotypes, and the use of various writing tools and techniques such as satire, humor, and storytelling, the film challenges societal norms and encourages audiences to embrace the complexity and diversity of the Black experience.