Watch The Distinguished Gentleman

The Distinguished Gentleman is a 1992 American political satire film directed by Jonathan Lynn, starring Eddie Murphy, Lane Smith, and Sheryl Lee Ralph. The film tells the story of a con artist named Thomas Jefferson Johnson, played by Eddie Murphy, who runs for Congress simply for personal gain and ends up winning. At the beginning of the movie, Johnson is a small-time con artist in Florida, running scams in the Black community. But when a Congressman from his district dies, Johnson sees an opportunity to make some easy money by running for election in his place. Despite having no experience or qualifications, Johnson manages to win the election by using his street-smarts and his ability to connect with voters.

Once he arrives in Washington, Johnson quickly realizes that he can use his newfound power to make a lot of money for himself by taking bribes and participating in corrupt practices. But soon, he begins to see the negative impact of his actions on the people he was elected to represent, and he begins to question his own motives.

Throughout the film, Johnson is aided by a group of assistants and advisors who help him navigate the complex world of politics. One of these advisors is Willie, played by Sheryl Lee Ralph, a Congresswoman who takes Johnson under her wing and helps him to understand the inner workings of Congress.

Another important character in the film is Dick Dodge, played by Lane Smith, a powerful Congressman who becomes Johnson's nemesis when he realizes that Johnson is a fraud. Dodge is determined to expose Johnson and ruin his political career, but Johnson proves to be more resourceful than anyone expected.

The Distinguished Gentleman is a clever and humorous take on the world of politics, with Eddie Murphy delivering a strong performance as the charismatic and cunning Thomas Jefferson Johnson. The film explores themes of corruption, greed, and power, but also touches on issues of race and class in American society.

Overall, The Distinguished Gentleman is an entertaining and thought-provoking film that offers a unique perspective on the political landscape of the United States. With a talented cast and a clever script, it remains a classic of 90s cinema that is worth revisiting today.