Eddie Murphy, in addition to starring as Quick, the son of 1930s Harlem gambling-house proprietor Sugar Ray (Richard Pryor), also wrote and directed the film. The plotline details the combined efforts of Quick and Sugar Ray to prevent white gangster Bugsy Calhoune (Michael Lerner) from muscling in on their operation. The film's now-notorious streak of misogyny reaches a Nirvana of sorts when Quick shoots pugnacious Harlem madam Vera (Della Reese) in the foot. The talented supporting players include Redd Foxx, Danny Aiello and Jasmine Guy.
~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide