Dolemite Is My Name (2019) R & B singer and comedian Rudy Ray Moore had a long show business career. In the 1970s, Moore created the wildly popular character Dolemite and made several feature films as the street-wise character. The recent biopic Dolemite is My Name is the story of Moore’s conception of the character and the struggles he faced finishing his first Dolemite film. Moore is portrayed by Eddie Murphy who puts in not only a hysterical performance, but is also captivating and charming as the titular character. One of the movie's biggest assets is the strong ensemble cast. The project succeeds at first through the efforts of an unlikely team of Moore’s old friends and some young film students. While there is a lot of spirit and camaraderie in the production, the production eventually runs out of cash. Rudy Ray Moore continued performing as an actor and singer for the rest of his life. He never gave up on his dreams, and it made a difference to those around him. Dolemite Is My Name is not only a hilarious tribute to Moore, but an inspirational one. 

For a great double feature, check out the 1994 Tim Burton film Ed Wood, the story of low-budget filmmaker Ed Wood,and his struggle to produce films in 1950s Hollywood.

Billups Allen’s book 101 Films You Could See Before You Die is available through Goner Records.

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