About the film (courtesy of Columbia Pictures):
This Summer, the world’s favorite Bad Boys are back with their iconic mix of edge-of-your seat action and outrageous comedy but this time with a twist: Miami’s finest are now on the run.
Bad Boys: Ride or Die, the fourth installment in the action-comedy franchise, brings back the iconic duo of Mike Lowrey (Will Smith) and Marcus Burnett (Martin Lawrence) for another adrenaline-fueled adventure. While the film delivers the expected thrills, laughs, and over-the-top action sequences, it doesn’t quite reach the same heights as its predecessors.
Bad Boys: Ride or Die kicks off with a high-octane car scene, setting the tone for the explosive action to follow. The chemistry between Smith and Lawrence is still undeniable, as they effortlessly slip back into their roles as wisecracking partners with contrasting personalities. Their banter and comedic timing provide some of the film’s most entertaining moments, reminding us why we fell in love with these characters in the first place.
Bad Boys: Ride or Die revolves around the duo investigating an unnerving story regarding their late Captain (Joe Pantoliano). As they delve deeper into the case, they begin to uncover a mystery that has been building under their noses for the last several years, adding a layer of emotional stakes to the narrative. However, the storyline feels somewhat predictable and formulaic, lacking the surprising twists and turns that made the earlier films so engaging.
The action sequences are undoubtedly the film’s strongest suit. From explosive car chases to intense shootouts, the filmmakers have spared no expense in delivering visually stunning set pieces. The film’s R-rating allows for a grittier and more violent approach, which fans of the franchise will likely appreciate.
However, Bad Boys: Ride or Die stumbles in its attempt to balance the action with the humor. While there are some genuinely funny moments, the jokes often feel forced and rely heavily on nostalgia, which is okay if this approach suits your taste palate. The film does suffer from an overreliance on clichés and stereotypes, particularly in its portrayal of female characters, but again, there’s no shying away from what audiences are meant to get – a fun popcorn romp filled with mucho mayhem throughout.
The supporting cast, including veterans returning from the most recent sequel, Bad Boys for Life (2020), includes Paola Núñez, Vanessa Hudgens, Alexander Ludwig, DJ Khaled again for some reason and Jacob Scipio as Mike Lowrey’s estranged and imprisoned son, adds fresh and familiar energy to the franchise. New faces to Bad Boys: Ride or Die are Ioan Gruffudd, Rhea Seehorn and Eric Dane. It is worth mentioning that some of these characters are still underdeveloped and fail to make a lasting impact.
Overall, Bad Boys: Ride or Die is a fun and entertaining ride that will undoubtedly please fans of the franchise. The chemistry between Smith and Lawrence is still electrifying, and the action sequences are a visual feast. However, the predictable plot, forced humor, and underdeveloped characters prevent it from reaching the same heights as its predecessors.
For those seeking a nostalgic trip down memory lane with their favorite buddy cops, Bad Boys: Ride or Die delivers the goods. Just don’t expect it to reinvent the wheel. In theaters everywhere starting Friday, June 7th with early showings Thursday evening.
