The Nutty Professor , Big Momma's House , or any movie where a comedian disappears under latex. What are your memories of Norbit? Love it or hate it? Let me know in the comments below.
Absolutely. As a time capsule of mid-2000s studio comedy excess, it’s fascinating. It’s the movie you pretend you’re too sophisticated to watch, but if it’s on TV at 2 AM, you will stop scrolling.
In 2025, watching Eddie Murphy play the plus-sized, hyper-sexual, abusive Rasputia Latimore is a whiplash experience. On one hand, Murphy’s physical commitment is staggering. He disappears into the role with prosthetic makeup that was top-tier for its time.
Let's dive into the chaos. Norbit Rice (Eddie Murphy) is a meek, kind-hearted man who was abandoned as a baby and raised at a Chinese restaurant/orphanage run by the wonderfully odd Mr. Wong. After a traumatic childhood being bullied by the massive, aggressive Rasputia (also Eddie Murphy), Norbit ends up married to her.
His life is a living hell—until his childhood sweetheart, Kate (Thandie Newton), returns to town. Now Norbit must find the spine to escape Rasputia’s clutches and win back his true love. Let's address the obvious: Eddie Murphy in a fat suit.
★★☆☆☆ (2/5 - A guilty pleasure that requires a thick skin and a very forgiving sense of humor.)
