Eddie Murphy Banana In The Tailpipe Quote
Eddie Murphy is undoubtedly one of the most iconic comedians in history. From his early days on Saturday Night Live to his record-breaking stand-up specials, Murphy's influence on the world of comedy cannot be denied. One of his most memorable moments was the "Banana in the Tailpipe" quote from the hit 1984 film Beverly Hills Cop. In this article, we'll dive into the backstory of this classic moment, its impact on pop culture, and why it still resonates with audiences to this day.
The Origin of the Banana In The Tailpipe Quote
Beverly Hills Cop follows the story of a Detroit detective named Axel Foley (played by Murphy) who travels to Beverly Hills to investigate the murder of his friend. Along the way, he clashes with the local police department and gets into a series of hijinks.
One of the film's most memorable scenes occurs when Foley and his sidekick Billy Rosewood (played by Judge Reinhold) visit a Beverly Hills car dealership. Rosewood tells Foley that he left a message for the dealership to "check the back" of Foley's car because he suspects someone might be following them. Foley catches on and plays along, but he privately tells Rosewood that he knows the dealership is in on the plot against him.
In classic Eddie Murphy fashion, he delivers the now-iconic line: "Hey, man, you know what? You'd be amazed at how much that little restraining order can do for you. You ever hear of a 'little thing' called 'due process'? That's what this country's all about. It's the 'd-u-e process of law'." He then casually tosses a banana into the tailpipe of the assailant's car, causing it to stall and preventing them from following him any further.
The Impact of the Banana In The Tailpipe Quote
The "Banana in the Tailpipe" quote became an instant classic, both in the film and in pop culture. It perfectly encapsulated Murphy's unique brand of humor - quick-witted, irreverent, and just a little bit absurd. The line was so popular that it spawned a series of catchphrases and references, including T-shirts, bumper stickers, and even a rap song. Today, the phrase is still commonly used to describe any situation where a trick or deception is foiled.
One reason the quote resonated with audiences was its clever use of language. The phrase "Banana in the Tailpipe" is a playful way to describe a simple act of sabotage. It's an example of Murphy's ability to take a mundane moment and turn it into something memorable. The line is also a testament to Murphy's improvisational skills. The scene was not originally in the script, but Murphy came up with the idea on set and convinced the director to include it in the final cut.
Why the Banana In The Tailpipe Quote Still Resonates Today
More than 30 years after the release of Beverly Hills Cop, the "Banana in the Tailpipe" quote continues to be a favorite among comedy fans. Part of its lasting appeal is its simplicity - it's a short, memorable moment that perfectly captures Murphy's comedic genius. But the line also speaks to a larger truth about human nature. We all love to see the hero outsmart the villain, and the "Banana in the Tailpipe" moment is a perfect example of that. It's a reminder that even in the face of adversity, a little creativity can go a long way.
In conclusion, the "Banana in the Tailpipe" quote is more than just a funny moment in a classic movie. It's a testament to Eddie Murphy's talent as a comedian, his unique style of humor, and his enduring legacy in the world of entertainment. Whether you're a die-hard fan or just someone who loves a good laugh, there's no denying the impact of this iconic quote.
