This 80s classic action film is considered a ‘quintessential buddy cop movie’ starring two major Hollywood stars and lucky for you, it’s live on TV tonight

If you’re stuck for what to chuck on your TV screens tonight, you’re in luck because this 1987 American classic is set to air on ITV, and movie buffs consider it an absolute “must-watch”.

Lethal Weapon is an iconic buddy cop action film, starring two A-list actors as the ultimate officer duo – Mel Gibson and Danny Glover. Their mismatched team of LAPD detectives throws them into a blender of characters and different personal situations that leads to chaos for their work life and a whole lot of comedy for viewers.

Martin Riggs, played by Gibson, is an L.A. police detective who, after the death of his wife, is feeling suicidal and taking part in reckless behaviour. Alongside him is Roger Murtaugh, played by Glover, an older officer who completely clashes with his new partner, and yet together they have to uncover a huge drug-trafficking ring.

As they encounter more and more dangerous situations, their unusual bond grows stronger. As it turns out, Rigg’s volatile ways may just be what their team needs to fight these criminals, if they don’t die in the process.

A fan of the film took to Rotten Tomatoes to share their thoughts. They wrote: “The best 80s action movie, ahead of its time. Brilliantly written, acted, directed and scored, and I even prefer this to Die Hard.”

Meanwhile, another impressed viewer said: “The amount of action and suspense in Lethal Weapon is insane, and on top of all that, Danny Glover and Mel Gibson gave it their all as two police officers who definitely know how to get the job done. This is one action movie that everybody needs to watch.”

The thriller also features a list of well-known names in Hollywood, including Gary Busey, Tom Atkins, Darlene Love, and Mitchell Ryan. Together they helped the film become a box office hit, as it went on to be the highest-grossing film the weekend of its release.

Another viewer wrote: “Lethal Weapon is a quintessential buddy cop film that blends intense action, humour, and emotional depth. Starring Mel Gibson as Martin Riggs and Danny Glover as Roger Murtaugh, the movie introduces two iconic characters whose chemistry elevates this action classic to legendary status.”

Adding to the film’s high praise, someone else said: “The movie was tense right from the beginning all the way to the end. Mel Gibson did an awesome job in this movie. Everyone must see this movie before they die.”

To get a taste for what is widely considered an all-time ‘classic’ movie, you can watch Lethal Weapon on ITV4 tonight at 9pm. Or, if you’re dying to see it but won’t be tucked up on the sofa this evening, the film is also available to rent on Amazon Prime.