On Saturday, September 28th in Los Angeles, the cast, crew and fans gathered for the official Netflix premiere of DOLEMITE IS MY NAME, starring Eddie Murphy as Rudy Ray Moore at the Regency Village Theatre. Fans waited on the street to get a glimpse of the many celebrities arriving outside. An “orange carpet” walk (to match the color scheme of the film artwork) was surrounded by a string of fans dressed in their best 70’s attire, all hoping for a chance to shake a hand, get a selfie or even interview the stars.
It wasn’t just the stars of the film that came out! Keenan Ivory Wayans, Sugar Ray Leonard, Samuel L. Jackson, Tracy Morgan, Robert Townsend, Chris Kattan, Mena Suvari and so many more were present to witness the one of the hottest and most entertaining films of the year.
Costumes from the film designed by Oscar winner Ruth Carter were on display along with a tribute to the Dolphin’s of Hollywood record shop where Moore worked before he finally broke out with his successful EAT OUT MORE OFTEN album in 1970. The O’Jays showed up to get everyone in the mood before attendees headed into the theater.
The cast and crew were introduced to tremendous applause before the entire theater cheered on their feet for star Eddie Murphy. The crowd loved the film and reviews and social media posts from everyone in attendance are, as all reviews have been so far, incredibly positive. After the film, cast, crew and special guests headed to Baltaire for the after party, where fans and friends mingled and enjoyed the evening.
Here’s a look at all the fun and media surrounding the event and more! Special thanks to all the staff at the theatre, Baltaire and the wonderful people at Netflix!
Fans wait outside the theater hoping to see their favorite stars arrive!
Jimmy “Mr. Motion / Funky Tramp” Lynch (portrayed by Mike Epps) and Ben Taylor (portrayed by Craig Robinson), the only remaining members of Rudy Ray Moore’s original crew!
Mike Epps meets Jimmy Lynch!
Craig Robinson meets the real Ben Taylor!
Jimmy Lynch with Bobby Rush (who appears as himself in the film). Having previously worked together, this was the first time they had seen each other in years!
Original costumes from the film by Oscar winner Ruth Carter!
Wesley Snipes, Arch Bishop Don Magic Juan (Moore gave him the “Arch Bishop” name), Jimmy Lynch and Luenell.
Eddie Murphy, Jimmy Lynch and Ben Taylor!
Director Craig Brewer and Rudy Ray Moore biographer / research consultant Mark Jason Murray.
Ben Taylor and Jimmy Lynch in front of the replica sign from the historic Dunbar Hotel.
Nicholas Joseph Von Sternberg (original DOLEMITE cinematographer with wife Angel), Ben Taylor, Jimmy Lynch, Rudy Ray Moore biographer Mark Jason Murray.
Co-screenwriters Scott Alexander, Larry Karaszewski and research consultant / Moore biographer Mark Jason Murray.
Oscar winner Ruth Carter and Jimmy Lynch discuss the costumes from the film. Lynch created many of the outfits from the original Rudy Ray Moore films.
Rudy Ray Moore biographer Mark Jason Murray introduces Ben Taylor to Tituss Burgess, who portrayed Theodore Toney in the film. Taylor and Toney were very close friends in real life and the two discuss who the real life Toney was.
Ben Taylor and Tracy Morgan enjoying the live performance by the legendary O’Jays!
The movie is about to start!
Goodies from the event! A Special Theatrical Program discussing the movie and the legend of Rudy Ray Moore, film and after party passes, special “Dolemite is My Name” sun glasses and even special “underground series” napkins!
Thousands of photos were taking at the event. More can be found on social media (#dolemiteismyname) and on many popular media websites!
Here’s a collection of videos from the event, press interviews and more!
A SPECIAL SCREENING FROM 9-29-19: Dolemite Is My Name Conversation with Eddie Murphy, Wesley Snipes, Keegan Michael Key, Da’Vine Joy Randolph, Craig Robinson, &! Titus Burgess Hollywood CA 9.29.19
EddieMurphy, #DolomiteIsMyName, #SNL, #funny Eddie acts out how he discovered he was funny, bombing as a comedian, Eating MacDonalds, getting cast on SNL & the role luck has played in his career. This movie reminds us how funny Eddie Murphy is, and so does the interview.
