Bad Boys: Ride or Die

Bad boys, bad boys, what you gonna do when they come for you? The Bayhem is off the charts with Bad Boys: Ride or Die. As someone who has always dug this franchise, a huge fan of Will Smith, and a sucker for a dumb fun time, Ride or Die fired on all cylinders for me.

In Ride or Die, Will Smith proves he is still a SUPERSTAR in all caps, with swagger and style that leap off the screen. His effortless charisma and action hero finesse make every scene he's in a standout. His presence alone elevates the film, making even the most over-the-top moments feel grounded in his unique brand of cool. Meanwhile, Martin Lawrence’s comedy will never die. Lawrence’s impeccable timing and infectious humor bring a perfect balance to the film, stealing so many scenes. The gags involving Lawrence and his comedic attempts to avoid death are hilarious and add a layer of lightheartedness to the otherwise intense action sequences. Individually, they could lead their own action movies with ease. But together? Smith and Lawrence are unstoppable. The duo's charisma oozes through the screen and you can’t help but laugh, be on the edge of your seat, and stay thoroughly engaged from start to finish.

The film clearly graduated from the cinematography school of AmbuLAnce with honors, as seen by its epic drone shots. Similar to that Michael Bay-directed film, Ride or Die implements this kinetic energy to its action set pieces which raises the chaos to 11. There’s one sequence that feels like a first-person shooter, and it’s absolutely enthralling. The action is high-octane and relentless, perfectly complemented by the franchise’s signature style. Explosions, car chases, and shootouts are crafted with such precision and flair that you can't help but be drawn into the chaotic beauty of it all. Each set-piece feels like a meticulously crafted spectacle designed to keep the audience’s adrenaline pumping. The aerial shots add a fresh perspective to the action scenes, making them feel even more dynamic and immersive.

Sure, Ride or Die might be a little dumb plot-wise, but who cares? This film delivers exactly what it promises: a wild, energetic ride with the legendary duo of Smith and Lawrence leading the charge. It feels like the Bad Boys franchise took a page out of the Fast & Furious playbook, amping up the absurdity and spectacle to new heights. The camaraderie and banter between Smith and Lawrence mirror the family dynamic of the Fast & Furious crew, making Ride or Die feel like a spiritual cousin to that beloved series. The story may be simple, even predictable at times, but it’s the journey and the way it’s presented that make it so enjoyable. It's a throwback to the classic action films where the plot was secondary to the sheer entertainment value.

In conclusion, Bad Boys: Ride or Die is a rollercoaster of a movie that delivers on its promise of high-energy, thrilling entertainment. With a star-proven performance from Smith and a scene stealing comedic take from Lawrence, innovative action sequences, and a self-aware, tongue-in-cheek approach to its plot, it’s a must-watch for action fans. Just buckle up, suspend your disbelief, and enjoy the ride!

7/10