Murphy and Lawrence Great Comic Team

by Jason R. Hewlett

It seems that comedies have been the order of the day these past few weeks. It's that time of year I guess. However, instead of the usual teen-orientated fair this go around we get something a little different. Eddie Murphy and Martin Lawrence's new movie "Life" is a lot more grown-up than recent comedies and it's a little smarter and a fair sight more entertaining too.

The premise is a simple one: two amateur bootleggers from Harlem are accused of a murder they didn't commit and are sentenced to life in jail. The year is 1932. The film then follows their lives and friendship as they spend the next 67 years behind bars. There are a few escape attempts and some bonding between Murphy, Lawrence, and their fellow prisoners. None of it is particularly deep but allot of it is quite amusing.

The bulk of the humor comes from Murphy and Lawrence's comedic banter. The two stars have a wonderful chemistry and sense of comedic timing. Their arguments and dialogue are both raw and uproarious. Murphy hasn't been this relaxed and quick-witted on screen since the 80's. To be sure such comics as Chris Tucker and Chris Rock have stolen a bit of Murphy's thunder but no one is quite as good he is when he's in top form, which he is here. At the same time Lawrence shines through as well delivering one funny quip after another.

The film's other star is Rick Baker's dazzling make-up. Murphy, Lawrence, and several other characters age considerably during the course of the film and Baker ages them better than nature could. It's impressive, and totally convincing, to see.

The film does have a few draw backs. Robert Ramsey and Matthew Stone's script is a bit slow on the warm up. The real laughs don't start until the stars are ready to head to prison, which is about thirty minutes into the film. You'll have to be patient. Also, unless you've been repeatedly hit in the head with a brick you'll able to figure out the real fate of Murphy and Lawrence within five minutes of the film's start time (the film opens and closes in the present). They are small gripes, but gripes none the less.

Overall though: it's nice to see Eddie Murphy back in business and great to see him and Lawrence together. I hope this isn't there last pairing!

6 out of 10!