In this new chapter, Mike Lowrey (Will Smith) and Marcus Burnett (Martin Lawrence) find themselves going through a midlife crisis of sorts. The reality of ageing and the dangerous nature of their careers prompt them to reflect on the life they’ve led so far. Their resolve is further tested when their late captain, played by Joe Pantoliano, is posthumously implicated in a massive corruption scandal. Determined to clear his name and protect their own reputations, Lowrey and Burnett must go on the run, navigating a web of deceit and danger. As they confront old enemies and forge new alliances, the duo is driven not only by justice but also by the desire to preserve the honour of their fallen leader and their long-standing partnership.
If it’s been some time since you last watched Bad Boys II, it’s worth revisiting to recall Reggie, as he plays a significant role in Bad Boys: Ride or Die. Portrayed by Dennis McDonald, Reggie had a brief yet unforgettable appearance in the second film as the nervous young man taking Marcus’ daughter, Megan (Bianca Bethune), out on a date. In the current film, Reggie, who has married Megan, is seen as a marine who has just returned from action overseas. And the way he meticulously kills 15 goons during a house invasion forms one of the best action scenes from the film. Likewise, in part three, Bad Boys For Life, we were introduced to Mike’s long-lost son, Armando (Jacob Scipio). Mike had fallen in love with Isabel Aretas (Kate del Castillo), the wife of a cartel kingpin, while he was undercover. In the last film, after almost taking him out, Armando took a bullet for his father and now is in prison. He too plays a prominent role in the film. His prison fight sequence is brutal and edgy and he finishes one of the emotional arcs of the film in the climax by saving the police chief’s granddaughter.
Directors Adil and Bilall have set up their film like a Marvel movie. Martin Lawrence, much like The Black Panther, has an out of the body experience which makes him think he’s invincible. That leads to him taking unnecessary risks. Meanwhile, Will Smith is shown to have panic attacks, and starts questioning himself like a woke superhero. Nevertheless, they escape only with minor scratches, despite throwing themselves in the jaws of danger like every ten minutes.
What works for the film is the chemistry between the two leads. It’s the bromance between Smith and Lawrence which pulls you in. Their constant banter, full of witty one-liners, keeps you smiling throughout. The CGI is top notch and so is the action choreography.
Will the Bad Boys ever ride again? Maybe, maybe not. It feels like the end of the road for then and a possible beginning for Reggie and Armando to take over the vehicle…
