Being Eddie Review: A Self-Congratulatory Portrait of Eddie Murphy
The documentary Being Eddie attempts to explore the life and legacy of Eddie Murphy but ends up revealing a core contradiction—Murphy’s reluctance to truly open up—turning the film into an act of idolization rather than introspection.
An Adulatory Portrait
Directed by Angus Wall, the film functions more as an extended promotional piece than an authentic portrayal. It highlights Murphy’s remarkable impact on comedy while conveniently omitting aspects that might challenge his carefully maintained public persona.
Contracts and Context
This is Murphy’s fifth collaboration with Netflix since Dolemite Is My Name (2019). Around that period, he reportedly signed a $70 million deal with the platform to develop new stand-up material, his first since 1987’s Raw. Given this business backdrop, the documentary’s purpose feels more like brand maintenance than creative exploration.
Surface Depth
The title, Being Eddie, promises intimacy but delivers little beyond a collection of talking-head interviews—chiefly Murphy himself and his circle of friends—layered with excessive admiration instead of genuine insight.
Praise Among Peers
Even with the film’s shallow approach, Murphy’s legendary influence on comedy remains undeniable. Fellow Netflix star Dave Chappelle likens their dynamic by saying he is the LeBron James to Murphy’s Michael Jordan.
“He changed the world,”
From SNL to Stardom
Murphy’s rise was meteoric. He joined Saturday Night Live at just 19 years old and swiftly transitioned into film fame with his breakout role in 48 Hrs.
Author’s Summary
The film Being Eddie presents a glossy, hero-worshipping vision of Eddie Murphy, prioritizing celebration over depth and leaving audiences with more applause than revelation.