I suspected I’d have a good time watching Bad Boys – Ride or Die, and I was right.

Starring Will Smith, Martin Lawrence, Eric Dane and Jacob Scipio; the latest instalment of the Bad Boys franchise is another fun outing. Now, several typical buddy/cop drama and action movie tropes may be present, however, it’s all woven together well, thanks to an engaging shooting style that includes some ‘first person shooter’ video game-style action. The cinematography and story edit help ensure that the film feels fresh enough that you surrender and let yourself be entertained. 

Directed once again by Adil El Arbi and Bilall Fallah, I expected the dynamic between Smith and Lawrence’s characters to be my favourite thing about the movie, along with the fun action. It turns out, not this time, because Scipio’s Armando is the star of my favourite scene. The kind that had me thrilled because of the fight choreography, the tension, how the scene is captured and my level of emotional investment in the outcome. 

We also have the ‘protect the family’ sequence that took an unexpected turn that was thoroughly engaging, plus the fight in the elevator. 

There is just one issue that I have with Bad Boys – Ride or Die, which is that I found Martin Lawrence’s Marcus to be quite annoying in parts. His character’s usual quirks seemed as though they were dialled up too high for my liking, and that’s before he has ‘the vision’.

Lastly, two more fun things about Bad Boys – Ride or Die? The numerous cameos, and Eric Dane as a bad guy. He’s great! 

I say watch it, especially if you enjoyed the previous films because this one is good, if not better. 

Happy Film Loving,

G