Norbit
"Norbit" delivers over-the-top comedy anchored by Eddie Murphy’s multi-character performances. It’s a divisive watch—some applaud its outrageous humor and Murphy’s versatility, while others criticize its reliance on stereotypes. If you enjoy broad slapstick and character-driven farce, it’s worth a look; if you prefer subtlety, you might want to skip it.
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The 2007 comedy is one of the most polarizing films in Eddie Murphy's career. While critics largely panned it, the movie has maintained a bizarrely resilient cult following and remains a significant piece of pop culture trivia. 🎭 Behind the Multiple Roles
Eddie Murphy didn't just play the titular character; he portrayed three distinct roles: Norbit Rice: The shy, mild-mannered protagonist.
Rasputia Latimore: Norbit’s domineering, over-the-top wife.
Mr. Wong: The elderly owner of the orphanage where Norbit grew up.
To transform into Rasputia, Murphy spent 2 to 3 hours in makeup each day and wore a prosthetic "fat suit" weighing roughly 34 kilograms (75 lbs). Interestingly, many scenes used a stand-in actress named Lauren Miller, whose physique was matched by the prosthetic suit before Murphy's face was digitally added in post-production. 📉 The "Oscar Curse" Theory
A popular Hollywood legend suggests that Norbit actually cost Eddie Murphy an Oscar.
The Timing: Murphy was the frontrunner for Best Supporting Actor for Dreamgirls (2006).
The Impact: Norbit was released just before Oscar voting closed. Many believe the film's "low-brow" humor and negative reviews turned off Academy voters, leading to Alan Arkin winning the award instead.
The Irony: While it was nominated for eight Razzies (winning three), Norbit actually received an Academy Award nomination for Best Makeup. 🎬 Production & Legacy Norbit Movie Review | Common Sense Media
, but it has also evolved into a specific industry term used during award seasons. The Film: Norbit (2007) Directed by Brian Robbins , the movie follows the life of Norbit Albert Rice
, a shy, mild-mannered orphan raised in a Chinese restaurant/orphanage by Mr. Wong.
Released in 2007 and directed by Brian Robbins, Norbit is a slapstick comedy featuring Eddie Murphy in three distinct roles: the mild-mannered Norbit Rice, his domineering wife Rasputia Latimore, and the orphanage owner Mr. Wong. Despite being a significant commercial success, earning over $159 million worldwide, the film is a frequent subject of academic study regarding its use of stereotypes and its impact on the career of its lead actor. II. The "Oscar Effect" and Critical Reception
The film's legacy is often tied to the theory that its release negatively impacted Eddie Murphy’s chances of winning the Academy Award for Dreamgirls. While Murphy has dismissed these claims, critical reception was overwhelmingly negative, with many reviewers attacking the film's "predictable crude, sexist, and racist humour". III. Cultural Critique and Stereotypes
Scholarly analyses, such as those published in Issue 1 Highlights from the Americas, argue that Norbit reproduces discriminatory discourses.
The Sapphire Stereotype: The character of Rasputia is often compared to the "Sapphire" trope—an aggressive, loud, and emasculating Black woman—which critics argue perpetuates white supremacist ideologies and mocks marginalised bodies.
Hegemonic Subversion: Conversely, some analyses suggest the film presents a counter-hegemonic representation of a strong Black woman who dominates her environment, even if that dominance is portrayed through abuse and toxicity. IV. Technical Achievement
Despite the controversy, the film was a technical landmark in makeup and special effects. The production used complex prosthetic bodysuits and digital face-replacement technology to allow Murphy to interact with himself on screen. Alternative Context: NORBIT (Technology Company)
In the scientific and industrial sectors, NORBIT refers to a Norwegian technology group specializing in multibeam sonar systems.
Applications: Their technology is used for ultra-high-resolution mapping of coastal and offshore depths, real-time dredging monitoring, and environmental subsea monitoring.
Research Papers: Technical papers featuring NORBIT equipment often focus on hydrographic surveying and the efficiency of shallow-water sonar systems.
(2007) is a romantic comedy directed by Brian Robbins and starring Eddie Murphy, who also co-wrote and co-produced the film [8, 15]. The movie is well-known for Murphy’s "chameleon" performance, as he portrays three distinct lead characters through extensive use of prosthetics and fat suits [21, 18]. Plot Summary
The story follows Norbit Albert Rice, a mild-mannered orphan abandoned as an infant at a Chinese restaurant and orphanage run by the eccentric Mr. Wong (also played by Murphy) [4, 14].
The Marriage: As a child, Norbit is "rescued" from bullies by Rasputia Latimore (also played by Murphy), a domineering and abusive girl who forces him into a relationship [5, 6]. They eventually marry, and Norbit lives a miserable, "henpecked" life under the thumb of Rasputia and her three intimidating brothers [8, 10].
The Conflict: Norbit’s life changes when his childhood sweetheart, Kate Thomas (Thandiwe Newton), returns to town to buy the orphanage [8, 20]. Norbit realizes he is still in love with her but must find the courage to stand up to the Latimore family, who plan to turn the orphanage into a strip club [8, 24].
The Conclusion: After uncovering the fraudulent schemes of Kate's fiancé, Deion Hughes, and surviving various comedic attacks from the Latimores, Norbit finally "grows a spine" [12, 16]. The townspeople rebel against the Latimores, and Norbit marries Kate at the same tree where they played as children [12, 16]. Key Characters
Norbit Albert Rice (Eddie Murphy): The protagonist, described as highly intelligent but timid, naive, and often treated as a "butt-monkey" by those around him [7, 16].
Rasputia Latimore (Eddie Murphy): Norbit’s abusive, larger-than-life wife. She is depicted as arrogant and vindictive, frequently using her size and brothers to control Norbit [6, 26].
Mr. Wong (Eddie Murphy): The owner of the Golden Wonton orphanage who raised Norbit. Despite his own eccentricities and "politically incorrect" humor, he eventually helps Norbit defeat the Latimores [14, 18, 24].
Kate Thomas (Thandiwe Newton): Norbit's kind-hearted childhood friend and the object of his affection [21, 28]. Production & Reception
Special Effects: The film utilized advanced prosthetics to allow Murphy to play multiple roles simultaneously [18]. A stand-in actress, Lauren Miller, was used for Rasputia's body, and Murphy's face was later digitally added in post-production [34].
Critical vs. Commercial Success: Critically, the movie was panned and "earned" several Golden Raspberry Awards (Razzies) [15, 29]. However, it was a massive commercial success and even received an Academy Award nomination for Best Makeup and Hairstyling [15].
Controversy: The film sparked significant debate regarding its use of racial stereotypes and depictions of overweight women [17, 30]. Some critics and audiences found Rasputia and Mr. Wong to be offensive caricatures, while others viewed them as harmless slapstick exaggerations [17, 30]. Norbit
Plot
The movie revolves around Norbit Ryan (played by Eddie Murphy), a man who was severely bullied as a child due to his obesity. To cope with his difficult life, Norbit creates an alternate personality named Rasputia, a large, intimidating, and foul-mouthed woman. As an adult, Norbit meets and falls in love with a beautiful woman named Nora (played by Thandie Newton). They get married and start a happy life together.
However, their happiness is disrupted when Rasputia, Norbit's childhood bully, returns to wreak havoc on their lives. Rasputia (also played by Eddie Murphy) is a huge, dominating, and obnoxious woman who terrorizes Norbit and Nora.
Main Characters
Themes
Reception
The movie received mixed reviews from critics but was a commercial success, grossing over $200 million worldwide.
Awards and Nominations
Impact
While the movie received mixed reviews, it has become a cult classic and is often referenced in popular culture.
Would you like to know more about the making of the movie or its cultural impact?
" (2007) is a polarizing romantic comedy that features Eddie Murphy in three distinct lead roles: the timid , his overbearing wife , and the orphanage owner
. Directed by Brian Robbins, the film centers on Norbit’s attempts to break free from his dysfunctional marriage to reclaim his life and childhood love. Production & Technical Achievements
Despite harsh critical reception, the film is often recognized for its advanced technical production: Oscar-Nominated Makeup: Legendary makeup artist Rick Baker
transformed Murphy into his various characters. The prosthetics were so effective the film received an Academy Award nomination for Best Makeup Seamless Special Effects:
To place Murphy's multiple characters in the same scenes, digital artists used techniques like "cloth deformation" and complex compositing to make interactions look natural. 3D Animation: The neighborhood dog, Lloyd (a pug played by Mushu from Men in Black
), was enhanced with 3D animation to allow it to "speak," using high-fidelity face-tracking data. Box Office & Reception
What makes Norbit technically fascinating is that Eddie Murphy doesn't just play two roles; he plays three primary characters, often interacting with himself via groundbreaking (for 2007) split-screen and body-double technology.
The sheer athleticism of Murphy playing all three against each other is staggering. Watching Rasputia slap Norbit, then cutting to Murphy in a different costume reacting to the slap, is a masterclass in comedic timing and physical acting.
While critics saw a vulgar, offensive mess, the internet saw a goldmine. Norbit is arguably the most quotable and meme-able Eddie Murphy movie since Coming to America.
In the age of irony, Norbit is the perfect film. You don't watch it sincerely; you watch it to quote it. You don't defend its politics; you defend its audacity.
In the vast, sprawling filmography of Eddie Murphy, there are clear peaks (Beverly Hills Cop, Coming to America, The Nutty Professor) and deep valleys (Pluto Nash, The Adventures of Pluto Nash’s box office returns). But then there is Norbit.
Released in February 2007—a notorious dumping ground for movies the studio doesn’t quite know what to do with—Norbit was a critical punching bag. It currently holds a paltry 9% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. It was savaged by reviewers for its crass humor, its reliance on fat suits, and what many perceived as a regressive portrayal of Black womanhood and plus-sized bodies.
Yet, nearly two decades later, Norbit refuses to fade away. It has become a cultural touchstone, a meme factory, and for a sizable audience, a genuinely beloved comedy. How did a movie this reviled become so unforgettable? Let’s dive into the strange, gelatinous world of Norbit.
Norbit is a 2007 comedy film directed by Brian Robbins and starring Eddie Murphy in multiple roles. The story follows Norbit Albert Rice, a timid, orphaned man married to the overbearing and manipulative Rasputia Latimore. After reconnecting with his childhood sweetheart, Kate, Norbit confronts the emotional and comedic chaos of his marriage while seeking the courage to reclaim his life.
is often remembered for its slapstick humor and Eddie Murphy's multi-role performance, but at its core, it explores the journey of self-actualization. The Struggle for Identity : The protagonist, Norbit Albert Rice
, is a gentle, shy, and highly intelligent man who has spent his life being pushed around [13, 35]. His journey is one of moving from a state of passive endurance to taking active control of his life [13, 30]. The Weight of Circumstance
: Norbit’s life is defined by his upbringing in an orphanage and his subsequent controlling marriage to Rasputia Latimore
, a domineering figure who represents the "monstrous" obstacles he must overcome [13, 16, 34]. A Story of Second Chances : The return of his childhood sweetheart, Kate Thomas
, serves as the catalyst for Norbit's internal revolution [15, 34]. It highlights the theme that it is never too late to stand up for oneself and pursue genuine happiness [18, 23]. Comedic Versatility
: Eddie Murphy delivers a tour-de-force performance by playing three distinct characters—Norbit, Rasputia, and the eccentric orphanage owner Mr. Wong—showcasing his ability to blend absurd physical comedy with heartfelt moments [15, 34]. NORBIT: The Global Technology Company In a completely different context,
is a Norwegian-based global provider of high-end technology solutions [6, 8]. Mission of Innovation
: Established in 1995, the company operates under the mission to "Explore More," focusing on three key segments: Connectivity Product Innovation & Realization Subsea to Space Themes
: Their expertise spans underwater acoustics (like sonar systems and mapping tools) to secure wireless communication modules used in various industrial and government applications [6, 10]. Commitment to Sustainability
: The company integrates sustainability into its design and production processes, aiming to contribute to the green transition through durable and efficient technology [9]. Quick Facts Comparison (The Film) NORBIT (The Company) Primary Focus Character-driven slapstick comedy [34] High-tech hardware and integrated solutions [10] Key Figure Eddie Murphy (multiple roles) [34] Per Jørgen Weisethaunet (Founder) [6] Headquarters Boiling Springs (fictional) [16] Trondheim, Norway [8] Core Theme Self-confidence and second chances [13, 15] Innovation, growth, and sustainability [9, 10] of Eddie Murphy’s characters or the specific technical capabilities of NORBIT's subsea technology?
Released on February 9, 2007, Norbit is a high-energy romantic comedy that remains one of the most polarizing entries in Eddie Murphy’s filmography. Directed by Brian Robbins, the film is a showcase of physical comedy and heavy prosthetics, continuing Murphy's tradition of playing multiple distinct roles in a single feature. Plot and Characters
The story follows Norbit Albert Rice (Murphy), a shy, mild-mannered orphan raised in a Chinese restaurant-orphanage by the gruff but kind-hearted Mr. Wong (also played by Murphy). As a child, Norbit is separated from his soulmate, Kate Thomas (played by Thandiwe Newton). He is eventually "rescued" on the playground by Rasputia Latimore (Murphy’s third role), a domineering and abusive girl who grows up to be his tyrannical, morbidly obese wife.
The conflict arises when Kate returns to town with plans to buy the old orphanage. Norbit sees a chance for true love but must first summon the courage to stand up to Rasputia and her three intimidating brothers—Big Black Jack (Terry Crews), Blue (Lester Speight), and Earl (Clifton Powell)—who plan to turn the orphanage into a strip club. Technical Achievement: The Makeup of Norbit
A defining element of the film is the intensive use of practical effects. Legendary makeup artist Rick Baker and his team at Cinovation designed the prosthetics and silicone bodysuits that transformed Murphy into his various characters.
Throwback to 2007!
Who else remembers the hilarious movie #Norbit starring Eddie Murphy?
In this comedy classic, Eddie Murphy plays Norbit, a nerdy and awkward man who was raised by his grandparents (played by Richard Dreyfuss and Cloris Leachman) after being abandoned by his parents.
As an adult, Norbit falls in love with a beautiful woman named Rasputia (also played by Eddie Murphy), who turns out to be super mean and controlling.
But things get even crazier when Norbit's childhood sweetheart, Astrid (played by Thandie Newton), comes back into his life and helps him to see Rasputia for who she really is.
This movie is full of laugh-out-loud moments, and Eddie Murphy's multiple roles are pure comedic genius!
So, who's ready for a nostalgic movie night with #Norbit?
Let me know in the comments if you have a favorite scene or quote from the movie!
While the final version of the 2007 film Norbit is known for its slapstick humor and exaggerated characters, the original draft content was significantly more intense. Darker Tone and Draft Details
Early versions of the script were notably darker than the final comedy.
Severe Abuse: Actress Thandie Newton revealed that in the first draft she read, Rasputia’s treatment of Norbit was much more abusive and less "comedic" than what appeared on screen.
Script Origin: Eddie Murphy conceived the story after seeing internet videos of domestic disputes, which he initially found humorous but eventually evolved into the film's premise.
Draft Scenes: Some early draft outlines included a heavy focus on Norbit's early life at the orphanage, with specific scenes detailing "child labor concerns" played with a dark humorous twist. 🎭 Character & Production Drafts
Rasputia’s Design: The physical "draft" of the character involved a 34 kg (approx. 75 lb) fat suit. While the character claims to weigh 165 lbs in the film, the production designed her to appear closer to 350 lbs.
Face Replacement: In draft/test footage and complex scenes, Murphy used a stand-in whose face was later digitally replaced with his own using early CGI face-mapping.
Makeup Drafts: It took roughly 3 hours to apply the makeup for Rasputia and 2.5 hours for the character Mr. Wong for every day of filming. 🏛️ Norbit Technical "Draft" (Company)
If you were referring to the NORBIT technology company rather than the movie, "draft" usually refers to the water depth required for their sonar equipment:
Vessel Draft: The NORBIT WINGHEAD sonar system is often used on vessels with a 2.0-meter draft.
Installation Draft: Technical manuals recommend the sonar be immersed at least 0.7m below the waterline to avoid bubbles and turbulence. Trivia - Norbit (2007) - IMDb
"Norbit's a hilarious comedy about a man who was severely bullied as a kid. As an adult, he's still dealing with the aftermath. The twist? He's actually three people - himself, his childhood bully, and a seductive woman. When his childhood bully comes back into the picture, Norbit's life gets turned upside down."
Would you like more information about the movie?
Released in 2007, remains one of the most polarizing entries in Eddie Murphy's filmography. While critics largely panned it as a "cesspool of tasteless crassness," it was a commercial success that grossed nearly $160 million and earned an Academy Award nomination for its makeup. 🎭 The Triple Performance
Eddie Murphy utilizes his signature multi-character approach, playing three distinct roles:
Norbit Albert Rice: A mild-mannered, "ingenue" orphan who is highly intelligent but socially timid.
Rasputia Latimore: Norbit’s overbearing, physically abusive, and gluttonous wife.
Mr. Wong: Norbit’s cynical, racist Chinese-American adoptive father. ⚖️ Critical vs. Audience Reception
The film is a textbook example of a "critic-proof" movie, where professional reviews and public enjoyment diverged sharply. The Case Against (Critics) Norbit - Movies - Review - The New York Times Reception The movie received mixed reviews from critics
To "put together a paper" on , you could be referring to a critical analysis of the 2007 Eddie Murphy film or a technical report on the hydrographic technology company.
Below are outlines for both perspectives to help you structure your work. Option 1: Film Analysis (The 2007 Movie)
This paper would focus on the cultural impact, comedic style, and controversies surrounding the film directed by Brian Robbins. Introduction : Briefly introduce
(2007) as a comedy where Eddie Murphy plays multiple roles, including the protagonist Norbit Rice and the antagonist Rasputia Latimore. Plot Overview
: Summarize the story of a shy orphan bullied into marriage by the domineering Rasputia, only to find a second chance at love with his childhood crush, Kate. Thematic Analysis The "Everyman" Struggle
: Norbit’s journey from a submissive husband to finding his own voice. Comedy vs. Controversy
: Discuss critics' views on the film's reliance on "crude, sexist, and racist humor" and its portrayal of body image. Technical Achievements
: Highlight the makeup and prosthetic work required to transform Murphy into his various characters. Conclusion
: Reflect on the film's legacy—it was a commercial success despite poor critical reception. Option 2: Technical/Business Paper (NORBIT ASA)
This paper would focus on the global technology company that specializes in high-end sonar and subsea systems.
The keyword "Norbit" primarily refers to two distinct entities: a high-performing Norwegian technology company specializing in subsea and connectivity solutions, and a cult-classic comedy film starring Eddie Murphy. 1. NORBIT ASA: A Norwegian Technology Powerhouse
NORBIT ASA is a global technology group based in Trondheim, Norway, known for providing "tailored technology to more markets." As of mid-2025, the company has seen explosive growth and investor confidence.
Financial Trajectory: In the first half of 2025, NORBIT reported revenues of NOK 1,206 million, a 46% increase from the previous year. Their EBIT margin remained robust at 25%, driven by high demand in their Oceans and Connectivity segments. Key Segments:
Oceans: This division provides high-resolution multibeam echosounders like the iWBMS, used for seafloor mapping and artificial reef detection.
Connectivity: Focuses on wireless solutions for dedicated short-range communications, such as tolling systems and smart tachographs.
Market Position: Despite some earnings misses relative to high analyst expectations, the company is frequently rated as a "buy" due to its strong operating leverage and ability to expand margins. 2. The Film "Norbit" (2007)
On the cultural side, Norbit is a 2007 American comedy film directed by Brian Robbins. It is best known for featuring Eddie Murphy in three distinct roles: the mild-mannered Norbit Rice, his overbearing wife Rasputia Latimore, and the orphanage owner Mr. Wong.
Plot & Legacy: The story follows Norbit, an orphan raised in a Chinese restaurant, who finds himself trapped in an unhappy marriage with the fearsome Rasputia. While the film received polarized critical reviews, it has maintained a legacy for Murphy's physical comedy and range.
Cultural Footprint: The movie is often cited in discussions about Eddie Murphy’s career, specifically his penchant for playing multiple characters under heavy prosthetic makeup. It also serves as a case study in film subtitling and translation, where translators must navigate its specific brand of American slang and racial humor. 3. Etymology and Name Origin
The name Norbit is believed to be a variant of the surname Norbert. This Old Germanic name combines "nord" (north) and "berht" (bright or famous), loosely translating to "Bright North," which fittingly aligns with the Norwegian company's geographic origins.
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Title: The Many Faces of Norbit
[Opening paragraph]
Norbit Ryan, a man with a fragmented personality, struggled to find his place in the world. His life was a complex web of multiple personas, each one a coping mechanism to deal with the traumatic events of his childhood. As a child, Norbit was severely obese and suffered at the hands of his cruel and sadistic parents. But it was also during this time that he discovered his incredible talent for adapting and transforming into different personalities to survive.
[The Birth of Rasputia]
One of these personas was Rasputia, a massive, grotesque, and intimidating alter ego that Norbit would conjure up to protect himself from the cruelty of his parents. Rasputia was a behemoth of a man, with a voracious appetite and a menacing demeanor. This persona allowed Norbit to tap into a deep well of anger and aggression, giving him the strength to endure the unendurable.
[The Allure of Nora]
But Norbit's psyche was also home to a more vulnerable and sensitive persona: Nora. Nora was the embodiment of Norbit's longing for love, acceptance, and connection. She was a shy, awkward, and endearing young woman, with a quick wit and a sharp tongue. Nora was Norbit's attempt to recreate the relationships he never had as a child – a desire for friendship, romance, and family.
[The Convergence of Personas]
As Norbit navigated adulthood, his multiple personas began to converge, causing chaos and confusion in his life. His high school sweetheart, Marva, returned to his life, and Norbit found himself torn between his love for her and his deep-seated fear of being hurt again. Meanwhile, Rasputia and Nora continued to vie for dominance, threatening to upend Norbit's fragile sense of self.
[Redemption and Self-Discovery]
In the end, Norbit's journey was one of self-discovery and redemption. As he confronted his past and the traumas that had shaped him, Norbit began to integrate his multiple personas into a more cohesive and healthy whole. It was a painful and difficult process, but ultimately, it allowed him to find a sense of peace, acceptance, and belonging.
[Closing thoughts]
The story of Norbit Ryan serves as a powerful reminder of the human capacity for resilience and adaptation. Despite being broken and fragmented, Norbit was able to find a way to heal and become whole. His many faces – Rasputia, Nora, and Norbit himself – each held a piece of the puzzle, and it was only by embracing all of them that he could truly find himself.
