I thoroughly enjoyed “Bad Boys: Ride or Die” because it had no preconceived notions about where it was going or what it was going to do. If you’re there for a “Bad Boys” movie, this one delivers.
A lot of people may still be turned off by Will Smith, who famously slapped Chris Rock at the 94th Academy Awards in 2022. He may be forgiven by his fans, however. The audience showed up big time for this sequel. “Bad Boys 4” is a big hit.
This time around Mike Lowrey (Smith) and Marcus Burnett (Martin Lawrence) are wrongfully accused of a crime they didn’t commit. Mike is always trying to get Marcus to clean up his act. When he goes for a healthy drink, Marcus returns with a hot dog and Skittles. As usual, comedy and snide remarks mix with the action. When they’re in a convenience store that’s being held up, for instance, Mike says to the clerk, “Are you going to deal with the guy with a gun or me.”
Returning characters include Vanessa Hudgens as Kelly, Paola Núñez as Rita and Alexander Ludwig as Dorn. Dorn and Kelly are an item in this third sequel. Missing this time is Theresa Randall, who played Marcus’ wife in earlier episodes.
Co-directors Adil El Arbi and Bilall Fallah, who called the shots on “Bad Boys for Life: Deleted Scenes” in 2020, are back for more. Unlike Michael Bay, they use slow-motion sequences sparingly. They know better.
I enjoyed this one immensely because it turned what could have been a tired sequel into something better than many people will expect. This one cries out for the big screen. So, if you get a chance, get immersed in the experience in a theater.
Grade: B-
