When tiny aliens must carry out a mission on Earth in the guise of a spaceship disguised as a human, that's the plot of Meet Dave, a 2008 sci-fi comedy starring Eddie Murphy in dual roles. But is the movie as fun as rumored or just aimless chaos? Our editorial team invites you to find out.
Plot Summary (No Spoilers)
The story follows tiny aliens from the planet New York who pilot a spaceship shaped like a human (Dave) to Earth to find the 'Quantum Electrodrive,' a crucial device to save their planet. Trouble arises when Dave (the ship) falls in love with a human woman named Gina, complicating the mission as the aliens must learn human ways while keeping their secret.
Acting and Characters
Eddie Murphy plays dual roles: 'Dave,' the human-shaped spaceship, and 'Captain,' the leader of the aliens. Murphy effectively conveys the contrast between the two characters—Dave's stiff demeanor and the Captain's seriousness. Elizabeth Banks as Gina brings charm to the film, while supporting actors like Kevin Hart and Ed Helms add color. However, the large number of characters leaves some underdeveloped.
Direction, Visuals, and Music
Director Brian Robbins attempts to blend comedy and warmth, but the pacing of certain scenes lacks continuity. Cinematography by J. Clark Mathis interestingly captures the aliens' perspective of the world. The score by John Debney enhances the mood well, though it's not particularly standout.
Editorial Analysis
Meet Dave has an interesting concept, but the execution is uneven. Many jokes feel dated, and the attempts to weave in themes of sacrifice and love are superficial. However, for families looking for a light, mindless watch, the film offers some entertainment. But die-hard Eddie Murphy fans may be disappointed compared to classics like Dr. Dolittle or The Nutty Professor.
Verdict
Meet Dave is a family film that's pleasant enough to watch but not particularly memorable. If you're an Eddie Murphy fan, you might enjoy his dual-personality role, but overall the film lacks sharpness and timeless humor. Those seeking a light, brainless movie for a holiday may find it watchable, but it's not a top recommendation.
👍 Pros
- +Creative concept of aliens in a spaceship disguise
- +Eddie Murphy's dual-role performance
- +Some laugh-out-loud moments
👎 Cons
- −Unfocused script and uneven pacing
- −Some jokes are dated and out of touch
- −Supporting characters lack development
Top Cast
FAQ
Yes, Eddie Murphy stars as both Dave and the Captain.
It's suitable for ages 7 and up, with lighthearted comedy and no violent scenes.
No, there is no sequel and no current plans for one.
IMDB rating is 5.1/10 and TMDB rating is 5.332/10.
