Bad Boys: Ride or Die (2024)
The Bad Boys franchise has carved its name in the action-comedy genre with its signature blend of high-octane action sequences, buddy-cop humor, and undeniable chemistry between its leads, Will Smith and Martin Lawrence. Fans were eagerly waiting for the next chapter, and “Bad Boys: Ride or Die” (2024) has not disappointed. Directed by Adil El Arbi and Bilall Fallah, who helmed the successful “Bad Boys for Life,” the new installment takes the franchise into even bigger territory with more thrilling action, deeper character development, and just the right dash of nostalgia.
In this comprehensive review, we’ll explore the film’s plot, performances, direction, action sequences, and how it ties into the overall franchise. Does “Bad Boys: Ride or Die” continue the legacy, or is it just another action flick?
Plot Overview: A New Era of Crime in Miami
“Bad Boys: Ride or Die” picks up a few years after the events of “Bad Boys for Life.” Marcus Burnett (Martin Lawrence) is now officially retired and enjoying his role as a grandfather. On the other hand, Mike Lowrey (Will Smith) is still chasing criminals, fighting to hold onto his youth and his role as Miami’s top detective. However, things take a dark turn when a new cartel, led by the mysterious and ruthless Isabel Aretas (played by Kate del Castillo), emerges in Miami. Isabel, seeking vengeance for the death of her son, Armando, is determined to destroy everything and everyone Mike holds dear.
The movie sets the tone early with a heart-pounding chase scene that plunges viewers into the center of the action. Mike and Marcus are soon reunited, but their friendship is tested by the generational divide and Marcus’s reluctance to return to the field. The plot explores deeper themes of aging, legacy, and sacrifice, as both characters grapple with their mortality and the changing world around them.
Mike is forced to team up with AMMO (Advanced Miami Metro Operations), the high-tech task force introduced in the previous film, which includes returning characters Kelly (Vanessa Hudgens), Dorn (Alexander Ludwig), and Rafe (Charles Melton). Together, they embark on a global mission to stop Isabel’s cartel from wreaking havoc on Miami.
Character Development: A New Depth to Mike and Marcus
One of the strengths of the “Bad Boys” franchise has always been its characters, particularly the dynamic between Mike and Marcus. “Bad Boys: Ride or Die” takes this chemistry to new heights by adding layers of complexity to their relationship.
Mike Lowrey, portrayed with charisma and intensity by Will Smith, is still the cocky, adrenaline-seeking cop we know and love, but the film allows us to see him in a more vulnerable light. Mike is now grappling with the realities of getting older and the consequences of his past actions. His brashness is countered by moments of reflection, as he questions whether the life of danger and excitement is worth the toll it’s taking on him and those around him.
Marcus Burnett, played with comedic brilliance by Martin Lawrence, provides the film’s emotional core. Marcus is now a fully realized family man who has embraced the idea of slowing down. His reluctance to join Mike on another dangerous mission stems from his newfound responsibilities, and this tension creates some of the film’s most heartfelt moments. Lawrence brings humor and gravitas to his role, grounding the film’s action-heavy sequences with moments of genuine introspection.
The supporting cast, particularly AMMO, adds a modern twist to the story. Vanessa Hudgens’ Kelly, Alexander Ludwig’s Dorn, and Charles Melton’s Rafe represent a new generation of law enforcement officers, armed with technology and a fresh approach to crime-fighting. Their dynamic with Mike and Marcus creates an engaging clash of old-school and new-school tactics.
Kate del Castillo, as Isabel Aretas, delivers a menacing performance as the film’s villain. Her character is fueled by revenge, but she’s far from a one-dimensional antagonist. The filmmakers give her enough backstory to make her motivations understandable, if not justifiable. Isabel is a woman scorned, and her fury drives much of the plot’s intensity.
Action and Cinematography: Bigger, Better, and Bolder
If there’s one thing fans expect from a “Bad Boys” film, it’s explosive action sequences, and “Bad Boys: Ride or Die” delivers in spades. The action is bigger, more elaborate, and spread across a variety of locations, from the bustling streets of Miami to international destinations like Mexico and Spain.
The film opens with a jaw-dropping chase scene that sets the tone for the relentless action to follow. Car chases, gunfights, and hand-to-hand combat are choreographed with precision and intensity, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats. Directors Adil El Arbi and Bilall Fallah demonstrate their knack for visually dynamic action sequences, blending practical stunts with CGI to create an immersive experience.
One standout sequence involves a high-speed chase through the narrow streets of Barcelona, where Mike and Marcus pursue a convoy of armored trucks. The tension is palpable as they navigate the winding roads, dodging bullets and explosions. The cinematography, handled by Robrecht Heyvaert, captures the adrenaline of the moment, with sweeping drone shots and close-up camera angles that put the audience right in the middle of the action.
The film’s climactic battle takes place in the heart of Miami, where Mike and Marcus face off against Isabel’s cartel in a shootout that feels like a callback to the explosive finales of the earlier films. It’s a fitting end to the film’s action-packed narrative, complete with slow-motion shots and fiery explosions that have become a staple of the franchise.
Humor and Heart: Striking the Perfect Balance
While “Bad Boys: Ride or Die” amps up the action, it never forgets the humor and heart that made the previous films so beloved. The banter between Mike and Marcus is as sharp as ever, with Martin Lawrence’s comedic timing providing some of the film’s funniest moments. Whether it’s Marcus complaining about his bad back or Mike poking fun at Marcus’s newfound love for yoga, the humor feels natural and unforced.
The film also touches on deeper emotional beats, particularly in its exploration of friendship and family. Mike and Marcus have always been brothers in arms, but “Ride or Die” forces them to confront the fact that they are no longer the invincible heroes they once were. Marcus’s struggle to balance his loyalty to Mike with his desire to be there for his family adds an emotional weight to the story.
The theme of legacy runs throughout the film, as both Mike and Marcus reflect on their careers and what they’ll leave behind. For Mike, it’s about confronting his past and coming to terms with the fact that he can’t do this forever. For Marcus, it’s about ensuring that his family comes first. These moments of introspection give the film a level of depth that elevates it beyond a typical action movie.
Nostalgia and Continuity: Honoring the Legacy
“Bad Boys: Ride or Die” knows its audience, and it isn’t shy about playing into nostalgia. Fans of the original films will appreciate the callbacks to earlier installments, from the iconic slow-motion shots to the “We ride together, we die together” motto that has become synonymous with the franchise.
The film also pays tribute to Joe Pantoliano’s character, Captain Howard, whose death in “Bad Boys for Life” served as a turning point for Mike and Marcus. His absence is felt throughout the film, but his legacy lives on, particularly in Mike’s struggle to live up to the high standards Howard set for him.
The return of AMMO, the tech-savvy task force introduced in the last film, helps to bridge the gap between the old and new guard. The inclusion of younger characters ensures that the franchise feels fresh, even as it pays homage to its roots.
Final Thoughts: A Fitting Conclusion or a New Beginning?
“Bad Boys: Ride or Die” is a worthy addition to the franchise, delivering on the action, humor, and heart that fans have come to expect. Will Smith and Martin Lawrence’s chemistry is as electric as ever, and the film strikes a perfect balance between high-octane thrills and emotional depth. The action sequences are bigger and more explosive, but they’re grounded by the film’s focus on character development and the enduring bond between Mike and Marcus.
While the film wraps up several storylines, it also leaves the door open for potential future installments. Whether or not this is the final ride for Mike and Marcus remains to be seen, but if “Bad Boys: Ride or Die” is the end, it’s a fitting conclusion to one of the most iconic action franchises of all time.
In a landscape crowded with superhero movies and franchise reboots, “Bad Boys: Ride or Die” stands out as a reminder of why audiences fell in love with these characters in the first place. It’s a wild, thrilling, and emotional ride that proves the Bad Boys still have plenty of fight left in them.
FAQs
2. How does the film handle character development for Mike and Marcus?
The film adds new layers to Mike and Marcus’s characters. Mike is portrayed as grappling with the realities of aging and the impact of his past actions, while Marcus deals with his new responsibilities as a family man. The dynamic between them is deepened, reflecting their personal growth and the challenges they face.
3. What can viewers expect from the action sequences in the film?
Viewers can anticipate high-octane action sequences that include elaborate car chases, intense shootouts, and hand-to-hand combat. The film features thrilling scenes set in various locations, such as a high-speed chase through Barcelona and a climactic shootout in Miami, showcasing impressive cinematography and dynamic stunts.
4. How does "Bad Boys: Ride or Die" balance humor with its action?
The film maintains the franchise’s signature humor through sharp banter between Mike and Marcus, with Martin Lawrence providing comedic moments. It also addresses deeper emotional themes, such as friendship and family, ensuring that the humor complements the film's more serious elements.
5. Does the film include any references to previous "Bad Boys" movies?
Yes, "Bad Boys: Ride or Die" includes several nostalgic references to earlier films in the franchise, such as callbacks to iconic scenes and the “We ride together, we die together” motto. It also acknowledges the legacy of Captain Howard and integrates AMMO, the tech-savvy task force introduced in the previous film, to bridge the old and new elements of the series.
