MovieChat Forums > Trading Places (1983) Discussion > Which Duke brother was worse between Mor...

Which Duke brother was worse between Mortimer or Randolph?


Between the two I've thought Mortimer was the more heartless one of the two and seems to show more callousness in him, I didn't think Randolph was as mean or cruel as Mortimer.

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If you really break it down, I think you're right. Randolph at least suspected that Valentine's problems were more of the result of his environment as opposed to Winthorpe who was given every advantage in life. His theory was that if Valentine were given the opportunity, he could turn his street smarts into something more tangible.

Still, when it came down to letting Valentine stay on as managing director, neither wanted a black man in that position.

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BUMP

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Very hard to answer when you consider in real life they were both complete polar opposites to these characters. Cant shake that

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My mom was a kid in the 30's, she really liked their films. I heard both were nice guys in RL. Eddie was lucky to work with two legends. I wonder if they admired him? I have not seen Trading Places in a long time, a great film.

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Mortimer for no other reason than...

Official #2: Mortimer, your brother is not well. We better call an ambulance.

Mortimer Duke: Fuck him! Now, you listen to me! I want trading reopened right now. Get those brokers back in here! Turn those machines back on!

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BUMP

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Mortimer

But the nature/nurture debate continues to this day.

The big flaw in this fun movie is that Billy Ray, while intelligent, would show pride of ownership.

People given things don't have this.

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