Today’s quick review: The Golden Child. Chandler Jarrell (Eddie Murphy) is a Los Angeles detective who specializes in recovering lost and kidnapped children. While working a case, Chandler is approached by Kee Nang (Charlotte Lewis), a Tibetan woman who claims he is the Chosen One. To fulfill his destiny, Chandler must rescue the Golden Child (J.L. Reate), a boy with mystic powers, from the clutches of the evil Sardo Numspa (Charles Dance).
The Golden Child is a fantasy action comedy that drops a sly Los Angeles detective into a supernatural Tibetan conflict. Chandler’s quick thinking and kind heart turn out to be just what he needs to save the Child, in spite of his objections at being involved in the case at all. Most of the film’s comedy comes from Chandler’s quips and complaints, while the story is a basic but competently handled fantasy adventure with a light tone.
However, that’s as far as The Golden Child goes. It’s entertaining to see Chandler talk his way out of tricky situations, but the comedy as a whole isn’t as sharp or as memorable as other Eddie Murphy films. The romance between Chandler and Kee comes across as forced. The plot does what it needs to but offers few surprises. Likewise, the action helps spice up the movie and uses some clever special effects but isn’t enough to carry the film.
The Golden Child is worth a watch when you’re in the mood for a light adventure and aren’t too particular about being impressed. Its blend of comedy, action, and the supernatural makes it an enjoyable watch for Eddie Murphy fans, but it’s largely outclassed by other films that play around in the same space. Skip it if you’re looking for a compelling story or jaw-dropping action.
For a funnier Eddie Murphy comedy, check out Beverly Hills Cop. For an action fantasy movie with a similar plot and more supernatural action, check out The Medallion. For a tongue-in-cheek cross between Western action and Eastern mysticism, check out Big Trouble in Little China.
5.9 out of 10 on IMDB. I give it a 6.0 to 6.5 for a decent story and some laughs, but not much else.