If you have never seen this film before then you are missing
out on one of the funniest comedies ever made. Briefly, since this not a review
of the film, it is the story of an African Prince, played by Eddie Murphy, who
comes to America in search of a bride to be his Queen. He is accompanied by his
servant, played by Arsenio Hall.
During the film they each play several parts; all
brilliantly; but one of my favorite scenes is the one with the Preacher, played
by Mr. Hall, at the gathering of a local community group. I don’t think there
is any real lesson in this scene, unless it is to lampoon the mega-churches of
the time. This film was made when TV evangelists such as Jimmy Swaggart and the
Baker’s over at PTL were in their heyday.
That day is quickly returning with the rise of the “mega-church”
from coast to coast here in America. The houses inhabited by the Pastors of
these “churches”; which are tax free; approach palatial proportions. Here in
Charlotte we have the Elevation Church, with the pastor their earning an
undisclosed salary and living in a 16,000 square foot house. But that is
another matter.
Enjoy the clip, or better yet, get the film and enjoy the
whole story. The film is rich in characters, and the story is incredibly funny.
Interesting note; Art Buchwald originally pitched this same story line to the
studio and was turned away. Imagine his surprise when the film came out, with
the storyline centering around an African Prince, rather than a Jewish
immigrant! He sued, and won.
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