When you’ve been in the business as long as Eddie Murphy, there’s going to be a lot of ups and downs on your resume. Sometimes you’re the toast of the town, and other times they’re saying you’re done. Though the “SNL” vet is known for his comedic work, he’s had several acclaimed dramatic roles over the years and notably started his movie career in action hits. As he returns to his star-making character Axel Foley, we thought it was time to explore his wide-ranging filmography. In case you want to revisit old favorites, or check some titles you missed, these are Eddie Murphy’s movies ranked from best to worst, according to Rotten Tomatoes.
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Dolemite Is My Name – 97%
In this Netflix movie, Murphy delivers the kind of compelling performance that’s only possible after you’ve spent years perfecting your craft. He brilliantly moves between a journeyman entertainer and his over the top persona, clearly drawing on his own experiences.
48 Hrs. – 92%
In one of his earliest starring roles, it’s easy to see why Eddie Murphy became a star. His comedic timing, delivery and on screen presence are so perfect, you can’t help but be interested in what he does every time he pops up.
Shrek 2 – 89%
The actor/comedian is so good as Donkey because he brings something different to the crazy character in every movie. His hilarious performance in “Shrek” is totally unique to the hilarious performance in “Shrek 2.”
Trading Places – 89%
“Trading Places” came out in 1983 so there are several scenes and lines that don’t age well. However, once you get past those, Murphy’s fish out of water Billy Ray Valentine is one of his most interesting characters, and his performance still elicits legit laugh out loud moments 40 years later.
Shrek – 88%
As we previously noted, every “Shrek” movie offers a new take on Donkey. But there will always be something special about the way Eddie brought his special brand of chaos to the first film.
Mulan – 86%
The scene-stealing animal companion is a staple of Disney movies. “Mulan” is such a captivating, and at times sad, story, the comedic relief Eddie provides as Mushu is invaluable to its longevity.
Eddie Murphy: Delirious – 83%
When people are still telling jokes from a 1983 stand up comedy film 40 years later, you know you’ve got a classic.
Beverly Hills Cop – 82%
Once upon a time, Sylvester Stallone was in talks for “Beverly Hills Cop.” But when his version of the script was too expensive, the studio eventually agreed to cast Eddie. Can you imagine all the classic scenes we would’ve missed out on if Sly had been Axel Foley?
Bowfinger – 81%
“Bowfinger” is the most underrated movie on this list. Eddie plays dual roles as a ridiculous, over the top movie star and his nerdy, regular guy twin. As the movie production they’re working on gets increasingly crazy, his performance becomes increasingly fascinating.
Dreamgirls – 79%
Just when we thought we’d seen him do it all, the superstar delivered an Oscar-nominated performance in a musical. As Jimmy Early, he embodies classic soul singers, while also highlighting the struggle between popularity and artistry.
Eddie Murphy: Raw – 78%
If you were a kid in the ‘80s, the aptly titled “Raw” was contraband. The extremely R-rated stand up movie was definitely not for the kids.
Coming to America – 73%
It’s almost impossible to pick a favorite line or scene in this classic. Out of all Eddie Murphy’s movies, this is the one that new generations are constantly discovering because you can find something new to laugh at every time you watch it.
Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F – 67%
The fourth film in the franchise finds Axel returning to Beverly Hills to unravel a conspiracy and protect his daughter. Based on the 67 percent rating, it seems like critics aren’t enjoying the nostalgia as much as viewers are.
Tower Heist – 67%
“Tower Heist” isn’t terrible, but it’s also not memorable. Do you even remember this one? Do you remember the star-studded cast that includes Ben Stiller; Matthew Broderick; Alan Alda; and Gabourey Sidibe.
The Nutty Professor – 65%
Over the years, “The Nutty Professor” has become one of Murphy’s more divisive movies. Whether you love it or hate it, you have to admit that his work in the dinner table scene is comedic brilliance.
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