Coming to America

Introduced by author and critic Jason Bailey

Dir. John Landis. U.S. 1988, 117 mins. DCP. This unforgettable ’80s comedy, starring and based on a story by Eddie Murphy, follows Prince Akeem (Eddie Murphy), a charming African prince who migrates to Queens to find love and a queen for his throne, with the help of his friend Semmi (Arsenio Hall). After being invited by local Queens residents to attend a rally to raise money for their neighborhood, Prince Akeem encounters a possible match: Lisa McDowell (Shari Headley), the daughter of a local restaurant owner. Prince Akeem decides to take a job at McDowell’s in order to win Lisa’s heart. Full of iconic moments and characters, Coming to America brings warmth and humor to the immigrant experience.

Following the screening, Jason Bailey will sign copies of his book Fun City Cinema in the Museum gift shop. 

Tickets: $15 / $11 senior and students / $9 youth (ages 3–17) / Free or discounted ($11) for MoMI members. Order online. Please pick up tickets at the Museum’s admissions desk upon arrival. All seating is general admission. Review safety protocols before your visit.