Common Sense Media Review
Another fat suit for Murphy, another bad movie.
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Norbit
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 14 parent reviews
Based on 42 kid reviews
Kids say the film has garnered mixed opinions, with many praising its humor and entertainment value, especially for older teens, but others criticizing its inappropriate content, including excessive sexual jokes and violence. Overall, while some viewers find it a hilarious classic, many agree it's not suitable for younger audiences due to its adult themes and questionable messages.
- humor praised
- inappropriate content
- not for kids
- mixed opinions
- adult themes
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
Nerdy, well-meaning Norbit (played by Eddie Murphy as an adult) grows up at an orphanage run by Mr. Wong. At age 5, Norbit's best buddy is Kate, but when she's adopted, they lose track of each another. He's soon approached by a large girl named Rasputia, who beats up the kids who pick on him and expects utter subservience and loyalty in return. Norbit agrees to her terms, going so far as to marry her when he comes of age. Their marriage is rendered in a few horrific montages and short scenes, focused mainly on how Rasputia overwhelms Norbit in bed. Her dominance is bolstered by her big brothers -- Big Jack (Terry Crews), Earl (Clifton Powell), and Blue (Mighty Rasta) -- all of whom are aggressive and menacing, not to mention greedy. When Norbit discovers that Rasputia is cheating on him with her aerobics instructor (Marlon Wayans), he finds solace with Kate (Thandiwe Newton), who's returned to town to take over the orphanage.
Is It Any Good?
The plot of director Brian Robbins's comedy matters little, except that it serves as an excuse for racist, misogynist, and other stereotypes. Of course, there's Rasputia. Mr. Wong (also played by Murphy) is another egregious stereotype, "Chinese" pronunciation jokes abound. Eddie Griffin and Katt Williams portray pimps, still more stereotypes to laugh at.
Norbit finally realizes he's in love with Kate and gets up enough nerve to leave his wife, despite her physical abuse. This passes for resolution and is underlined when Rasputia suffers some awful mistreatment, primarily at the hands of Mr. Wong, who inexplicably practices whale-harpooning and so gets to yell out, "Whale, ho!" as he assaults her. Bottom line? This is a pointless exercise in gross-out humor that will probably offend just about everyone.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the appeal of gross-out humor. Where do you draw the line between silly and offensive? Is it funny to see actors dress in drag and/or bury themselves in fat suits? Why? Rasputia is a strong, powerful woman -- but she's also cruel, self-indulgent, and constantly the butt of jokes for her voracious appetites. As a consequence, what messages does the movie send about body image and gender roles? Why do you think Eddie Murphy is drawn to make movies like this?
Movie Details
- In theaters : February 8, 2007
- On DVD or streaming : June 5, 2007
- Cast : Eddie Murphy , Terry Crews , Thandiwe Newton
- Director : Brian Robbins
- Inclusion Information : Black Movie Actor(s) , Female Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : DreamWorks
- Genre : Comedy
- Topics : Family Stories ( Adoptees and Foster Kids ) , Friendship
- Run time : 102 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : crude and sexual humor, some nudity and language.
- Last updated : September 4, 2025
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