Official film poster of “Norbit” used under fair use for editorial review.


Norbit: A Wild Ride through Comedy and Heart

Introduction
Released in 2007, Norbit marked Eddie Murphy’s return to his trademark multi-character comedy. Directed by Brian Robbins, the film tells the story of mild-mannered Norbit Albert Rice (Murphy) as he navigates life under the thumb of his domineering wife, Rasputia (also played by Murphy), only to reconnect with his childhood sweetheart, Kate Thomas (Thandiwe Newton). Equal parts slapstick and sentiment, Norbit delivers outrageous gags and surprisingly tender moments. Let’s explore its plot, performances, humor, and whether this over-the-top romp still holds up.

1. Plot Overview

Norbit Albert Rice grows up as an orphan at the Golden Wonton Orphanage, best friends with Kate Thomas. When Kate leaves town, Norbit is adopted by Mr. Wong (Murphy in prosthetics) and eventually marries Rasputia—a hulking, overbearing woman who bosses him around day and night. Years later, Kate returns, now a free-spirited animal rights activist engaged to the wealthy but obnoxious ex–rugby star, Deion Hughes (Terry Crews). Sparks reignite between Norbit and Kate, prompting Norbit to challenge Rasputia’s tyrannical rule. Hijinks ensue: from Rasputia’s flash dances to Norbit’s desperate attempts at courage. In the climax, Norbit stands up to Rasputia at a costume party, rescues Kate’s beloved stray dogs from a puppy mill, and redefines his own worth—learning that love and self-respect go hand in hand.

2. Direction & Comedy Style

Brian Robbins leans heavily into broad, physical comedy. Quick cuts during chase sequences and exaggerated sound effects amplify the film’s cartoonish energy. Robbins stages set pieces—like the puppy mill rescue and the flash mob at Norbit and Rasputia’s anniversary—at a breakneck pace. The film’s color palette is bright and saturated, matching its loud humor: Rasputia’s neon workout gear, the orphanage’s pastel walls, and the puppy mill’s grim grays create contrasting moods. While some gags land as riotous fun, others veer into uncomfortable territory, relying on stereotypes and shock value. Yet Robbins balances these extremes with quieter moments—Norbit’s reflective conversations with Mr. Wong—that give the story a surprisingly warm center.

3. Performances

Eddie Murphy showcases his comedic range by portraying four characters: the timid Norbit, the monstrous Rasputia, the wise Mr. Wong, and the smooth Mr. Wong’s nephew, Lord Have Mercy (Murphy in drag). As Norbit, Murphy nails the character’s awkward charm and endearing vulnerability. Rasputia’s bombastic tantrums and catchphrase—“I’m Rasputia!”—have become cult favorite moments, though some viewers find the caricature insensitive. Thandiwe Newton shines as Kate, bringing genuine warmth and sincerity that ground the film’s zaniness. Supporting turns by Terry Crews as the hulking Deion add muscle and comic timing, while Clifton Powell’s Pastor Clever delivers heartfelt advice in unexpectedly touching scenes. The ensemble’s chemistry keeps even the most outlandish setups feeling connected.

4. Humor & Tone

Norbit mixes raunchy one-liners with slapstick gags: someone slipping on lard, a bathroom-line marriage sequence, and a runaway roller-skate chase. Its humor often pushes boundaries—jokes about body size and racial stereotypes surface throughout—so viewer discretion is advised. At its best, the film uses these exaggerated situations to underscore Norbit’s growth; at its worst, it leans on shock laughter rather than clever wordplay. Moments of genuine heart—Norbit’s reunion with Kate or his defense of mistreated puppies—temper the more raucous bits. This tonal seesaw can be jarring, but it also ensures the movie rarely feels predictable.

5. Themes & Takeaways

Beyond the laughs, Norbit touches on standing up for oneself and speaking out against cruelty. Norbit’s journey from henpecked husband to courageous rescuer of puppies and true love highlights the power of self-respect. Kate’s animal welfare activism underscores compassion for the voiceless, whether people or pets. The film also nods to found-family bonds—Norbit’s relationships with Mr. Wong, Pastor Clever, and the orphanage kids remind us that family isn’t just blood. Though wrapped in broad comedy, these themes give Norbit an unexpected emotional heart.

Conclusion & Rating

Pros:

  • Eddie Murphy’s fearless, multi-role performances

  • High-energy slapstick set pieces

  • Moments of genuine warmth amid the chaos

Cons:

  • Humor that can feel mean-spirited or outdated

  • Reliance on stereotypes for cheap laughs

Rating: ★★★☆☆

What’s your favorite Norbit moment—Rasputia’s antics or the big puppy rescue? Let us know in the comments or tweet us @ReelMeetsComic!