Netflix has released the first images of Eddie Murphy in the upcoming biopic Dolemite Is My Name, directed by Craig Brewer (Hustle & Flow). The film will have its World Premiere at the 2019 Toronto International Film Festival.
The film based on the life of Rudy Ray Moore, the comedian well-known for his raunchy, X-rated stand up that he also infused with rapping and rhythm, earning him the nickname Godfather of Rap. Moore also became popular for his creation of the character Dolemite in his stand-up routines that, after five years of performing as the urban hero, he decided to bring him to the big screen with the 1975 movie of the same name.
Written by Scott Alexander and Larry Karaszewski (Goosebumps), Chris Rock, Wesley Snipes, Craig Robinson, Mike Epps, Titus Burgess, Da’Vine Joy Randolph, Keegan-Michael Key, Aleksandar Filimonovic, Tip “T.I.” Harris, Ron Cephas Jones, and Luenell co-star in the film.
Dolemite was such a hit it spawned two official sequels, as well as one unofficial sequel and an appearance in short film Murder Was the Case starring Snoop Dogg, and is credited as one of the most influential characters in the blaxploitation genre.
