Prince Hakeem, played by Eddie Murphy, is undoubtedly the most captivating and iconic character in the 80s movie Coming to America. While there are many memorable characters in the movie, Prince Hakeem stands out for specific reasons. From his impeccable sense of style to his charming demeanor, Hakeem embodies everything that a Prince should be.
What makes Hakeem stand out is not just his royal status, but his genuine desire to find love and build a life for himself that is free from the constraints of his traditional upbringing. He refuses to marry someone simply for political gain and instead travels from Africa to America in search of true love.
Prince Hakeem’s character is unique in that, unlike typical royalty, his most endearing quality is having a great sense of humour. His playful personality does not conform to societal expectations of royalty, making him more relatable to viewers. Even his amusing encounters with the barbershop regulars. Furthermore, the film’s setting in Queens, New York, allows for Prince Hakeem’s character to explore new cultures and customs that are outside of his norm, highlighting his open-mindedness and desire to understand the world better.
Additionally, his love story with Lisa McDowell, played by Shari Headley, adds a romantic subplot to the film. Their relationship also underscores the differences in social status and challenges that they must overcome to be together. This struggle creates yet another relatable dimension to the film, making Prince Hakeem’s character that much more memorable.
Notably, Prince Hakeem’s relationship with his unwavering assistant, Semmi (Arsenio Hall), is unique in that it is not the typical hierarchical one. Semmi is undoubtedly Prince Hakeem’s confidante, serving as more than an employee. Their bond is one of the reasons the film’s storyline is as dynamic and enthralling as it is.
Throughout the movie, Hakeem proves to be a complex character with a deep sense of empathy and compassion for others. He befriends his co-worker at the fast-food restaurant where he worked. He also treats his betrothed bride, who is initially chosen by his parents, with kindness and respect even though he does not love her.
Furthermore, Prince Hakeem is also a symbol of change. He defies the expectations of his father and the traditions of his homeland in pursuit of a life that he truly desires. His willingness to challenge the status quo inspires others, including his loyal servant Semmi, to reconsider their own choices and aspirations.
Overall, Prince Hakeem is a character who not only captures our attention but also touches our hearts with his authenticity and humanity. He combines humor, warmth, and bravery, making him a timeless figure in the realm of movie characters. His playful personality and relatability make him a memorable figure. His openness to understand different cultures and customs and his love story with Lisa add depth to the film’s storyline. Finally, his bond with Semmi is unparalleled, making him stand out as one of the most memorable characters in this iconic 80s classic.
