NORBIT
Release Date: June 5
Starring: Eddie Murphy, Thandie Newton, Eddie Griffin, Marlon Wayans
Director: Brian Robbins
Length: 102 minutes

Critics panned “Norbit” when it was in theaters, but the comedy went on to gross $95 million at the box office. It’s one of those comedies you either love or hate. As a baby, Norbit’s parents throw him out of a moving car and he rolls in front of the Golden Wonton Orphanage, where he is raised. If you laugh at this point, you’ll probably enjoy the film. If not…it will be a long 102 minutes. Norbit’s life is all downhill from there. Rasputia, a beast of a woman and the butt of endless fat jokes, makes Norbit’s life hell. But there’s hope when his childhood sweetheart (Thandie Newton) returns to town. There are a few too many fat jokes and the character of Norbit is underwhelming, but there are plenty of funny moments and watching Eddie Murphy play multiple characters (Norbit, Rasputia, and Mr. Wong) is always a riot. But it’s the supporting cast that really shines. Eddie Griffin is hilarious playing — what else? — a pimp. Marlon Wayans has a brief but inspired role as a fast-talking exercise instructor. Even Eddie’s older brother, Charlie Murphy (who helped write the screenplay), gets into the act as the voice of Floyd the dog. It’s broad, juvenile humor. If you don’t take your comedy too seriously, you’ll probably love “Norbit.”

DVD GOODIES
Extras include 14 deleted scenes and the featurettes “Man of a Thousand Faces” and “The Stunts of Norbit.” But make sure to check out “Power Tap,” Marlon Wayans’ mock infomercial, probably the funniest thing on the DVD.

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