Coming to America

Main Plot

Coming to America follows the story of Prince Akeem, the heir to the throne of the fictional African nation of Zamunda. Discontent with the arranged marriage his parents have planned for him, Akeem decides to travel to America in search of true love and personal freedom. Disguised as a commoner, he arrives in Queens, New York, accompanied by his loyal friend Semmi. Akeem navigates the challenges of living in a foreign culture while working at a fast-food restaurant. He soon meets Lisa, a strong-willed woman who captures his heart. As Akeem pursues her affection, he faces various comedic obstacles, including the clash of his royal background with the realities of life in America. The film explores themes of identity, love, and the contrast between royal expectations and personal desires, all while delivering humor and heartwarming moments.

Characters

• Eddie Murphy plays Prince Akeem, a wealthy African prince who travels to America to find a bride who loves him for who he is, not his wealth.
• Paul Bates plays Oha, the loyal and comedic royal servant who assists Prince Akeem in his journey and provides humorous moments throughout the story.
• Garcelle Beauvais played a rose bearer, a minor role, responsible for scattering rose petals in front of Prince Akeem in the film.

Ending Explained

In the ending of Coming to America, Prince Akeem realizes that true love cannot be forced and that he must follow his heart. After a series of comedic misadventures and misunderstandings, Akeem confronts the reality of his feelings for Lisa, the woman he genuinely loves. Despite his father's insistence on an arranged marriage, Akeem decides to pursue Lisa, demonstrating his commitment to individual choice over royal obligation. The climax occurs when Akeem, with the help of his loyal friend Semmi, crashes Lisa's wedding to another man. He professes his love for her in a heartfelt declaration, which ultimately leads to a dramatic and romantic reunion. Lisa, recognizing Akeem's sincerity and the depth of their connection, chooses him over her fiancé. This pivotal moment resolves the central conflict of the film, which revolves around Akeem's struggle between duty to his royal lineage and his desire for personal happiness. The film concludes with a joyous wedding ceremony that symbolizes the merging of cultures and the triumph of love. Akeem's journey from a sheltered prince to a man who embraces his own desires encapsulates the overall narrative of self-discovery and the importance of following one's heart.