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Will Smith and Martin Lawrence return in Bad Boys: Ride or Die for an action-packed, comedic adventure. |
The Bad Boys franchise has captivated audiences for nearly three decades. The original 1995 film, directed by Michael Bay, showcased the dynamic chemistry between Will Smith and Martin Lawrence. The 2003 sequel, Bad Boys II, amplified the action and solidified the "Bayhem" aesthetic. Despite a rocky development for the third film, Bad Boys for Life (2020) revitalized the series under the direction of Adil El Arbi and Bilall Fallah, collectively known as Adil & Bilall. Their latest installment, Bad Boys: Ride or Die, elevates the franchise to new heights with even more energetic direction and engaging performances.
Plot Summary
After the tumultuous events of Bad Boys for Life, detectives Mike Lowery (Will Smith) and Marcus Burnett (Martin Lawrence) are enjoying a period of calm. Mike is turning over a new leaf, getting married to physical therapist Christine (Melanie Liburd). However, tranquility is short-lived when their late boss, Captain Howard (Joe Pantoliano), is posthumously exposed for corruption. Mike and Marcus uncover that Howard was investigating a conspiracy within the Miami Police Department, leading to his death. Determined to clear his name, they seek help from an unexpected source: Mike’s incarcerated son Armando (Jacob Scipio).
Character Development and Performances
Will Smith and Martin Lawrence shine as the iconic duo, bringing their A-game to the franchise. Lawrence, in particular, steals the show with his comedic timing and physical humor. His character, Marcus, experiences a near-death encounter that grants him a sage-like wisdom, much to Mike’s annoyance and the audience’s amusement. Meanwhile, Mike grapples with guilt and anxiety, showcasing a surprisingly realistic portrayal of a panic attack.
The supporting cast also delivers strong performances. Vanessa Hudgens and Alexander Ludwig return as Kelly and Dorn, the lovable sidekicks from the AMMO unit. Paola Núñez reprises her role as Captain Rita Secada, adding depth to the narrative. Newcomers like Eric Dane, who plays a menacing villain, and Rhea Seehorn, portraying Howard’s daughter, contribute significantly to the film's dynamic.
Action and Cinematography
Directors Adil & Bilall masterfully execute the action sequences, transforming what could have been a standard action movie into a kinetic spectacle. The film is filled with memorable set pieces, from a neon-lit nightclub shootout featuring drone cinematography to an exhilarating third-act battle in an abandoned alligator-themed amusement park. The cinematography by Robrecht Heyvaert, who returns from Bad Boys for Life, enhances these scenes with innovative techniques like mounting cameras on guns for a first-person shooter effect.
Weaknesses and Script
Despite the film's strengths, it is not without flaws. The script, written by Chris Bremner and Will Beall, relies on predictable plot twists and surface-level emotional beats. The identity of the real villain is apparent early on, diminishing the suspense. While the humor often lands, credit is due more to the chemistry and delivery of Smith and Lawrence than the script itself.
Conclusion
Bad Boys: Ride or Die is a thrilling addition to the franchise, combining explosive action with hilarious chemistry between its leads. It knows its identity and delivers on its promise, providing a much-needed dose of summer entertainment. With directors Adil & Bilall at the helm and Smith and Lawrence in top form, this sequel revitalizes the action-comedy genre and sets a high bar for future installments.
Film Details
- Release Date: June 7, 2024
- Directors: Adil El Arbi & Bilall Fallah
- Writers: Chris Bremner & Will Beall
- Based on Characters by: George Gallo
- Producers: Jerry Bruckheimer, Will Smith, Chad Oman, Doug Belgrad, & Martin Lawrence
- Main Cast: Will Smith, Martin Lawrence, Vanessa Hudgens, Alexander Ludwig, Paola Núñez, Eric Dane, Ioan Gruffudd, Jacob Scipio, Melanie Liburd, Tasha Smith, Tiffany Haddish, Joe Pantoliano, John Salley, DJ Khaled, Rhea Seehorn, Dennis Greene, Joyner Lucas, Quinn Hemphill, & Lionel Messi
- Cinematographer: Robrecht Heyvaert
- Composer: Lorne Balfe
- Production Companies: Columbia Pictures, Don Simpson/Jerry Bruckheimer Films, Westbrook Studios, & 2.0 Entertainment
- Distributor: Sony Pictures Releasing
- Runtime: 115 minutes
- Rating: R