Review of The Golden Child (1986) by Luke P — 10 Aug 2009
Once upon a time, Eddie Murphy's name above a film title meant something. Once upon a time, Eddie Murphy wasn't a comedic joke who played multiple roles in forgettable comedies. That time was the 1980s, with hits like Trading Places and the Beverly Hills Cop films.
The Golden Child fell into that period, but it was one of his rare mis-steps. Originally conceived as a serious drama to star Mel Gibson, before being changed into an Eddie Murphy comedy at the final hour.
Unfortunately, it seems that, in this transitionary period, they forgot to actually insert any jokes or funny scenarios. The mystical plotline, which could have been comedic golddust, is played dead seriously and so the tone feels disjointed.
Murphy is on autopilot throughout, and where the film should be fun and breezy it is merely lethargic and dull. It gains bonus points for having Charles Dance as a shape-shifting demon though.
This review of The Golden Child (1986) was written by Luke P on 10 Aug 2009.
The Golden Child has generally received mixed reviews.
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