‘Bad Boys’ Legacy and Audience Expectations
The “Bad Boys” franchise began in 1995 with the original film, which introduced audiences to Miami narcotics detectives Mike Lowrey (Will Smith) and Marcus Burnett (Martin Lawrence). While the first film received lukewarm reviews from critics, it was a hit with audiences, setting the stage for future sequels. The second film, “Bad Boys II,” released in 2003, followed a similar pattern, being criticized for its excessive length and chaotic action but loved for its humor and the dynamic duo at its core.
It wasn’t until 2020’s “Bad Boys for Life” that the franchise saw its highest critical acclaim, with a 76% score on Rotten Tomatoes and a massive $426 million in worldwide box office earnings, proving that the franchise still had plenty of fuel in the tank. The trend of audience appreciation over critical acclaim continues with “Bad Boys: Ride or Die,” as its early reviews praise the film’s entertainment value despite some narrative shortcomings.
| Title | RT Score from Critics | RT Score from Audience |
| Bad Boys | 44% | 78% |
| Bad Boys II | 24% | 78% |
| Bad Boys for Life | 76% | 96% |
| Bad Boys: Ride or Die | 68% | TBD |
The Plot (Is It Really Matters !?)
In “Bad Boys: Ride or Die,” Smith and Lawrence return to their iconic roles, this time navigating a plot filled with conspiracy and redemption. The film follows Mike and Marcus as they attempt to clear the name of their late captain, Conrad Howard, amidst a tangled web of corruption and betrayal. This installment brings back familiar faces from “Bad Boys for Life,” including Vanessa Hudgens, Paola Núñez, and Alexander Ludwig, while introducing new characters that add fresh dynamics to the story.
The film’s direction by Adil El Arbi and Bilall Fallah is a standout, with their signature style of frenetic action sequences and visually inventive scenes. One notable sequence involves a mid-air battle on a plane in free fall, showcasing the directors’ ability to blend intense action with creative cinematography. Their influence from animation and video games is evident, making the action scenes more engaging and visually striking.
Critical Reception and Audience Response
Despite receiving some criticism for its script and perceived franchise fatigue, “Bad Boys: Ride or Die” has been lauded for delivering exactly what fans expect: exhilarating action, humor, and the charismatic partnership of Smith and Lawrence. The film’s Rotten Tomatoes score currently sits at 68%, the second-highest in the franchise, reflecting a generally positive reception from critics.
A common theme among reviews is the praise for Smith and Lawrence’s chemistry, which remains the heart of the series. Their comedic timing and camaraderie continue to be the driving force behind the franchise’s success. Smith, in particular, shines in his role, balancing dramatic moments with the lighthearted, often goofy antics that fans adore.
“Bad Boys: Ride or Die” proves that even after nearly three decades, the “Bad Boys” franchise can still deliver an entertaining and thrilling experience. While it may not be an Oscar contender, the film excels in providing the adrenaline-pumping action and humor that fans have come to love. The combination of Smith and Lawrence’s dynamic performances and the directors’ fresh, energetic approach makes this fourth installment a worthy addition to the series.
As the movie continues to draw audiences, it’s clear that the “Bad Boys” formula of high-stakes action and strong comedic elements remains a winning combination. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the series, “Bad Boys: Ride or Die” offers a fun, action-packed ride that keeps the franchise’s spirit alive and kicking.
For those looking to revisit the earlier films, “Bad Boys,” “Bad Boys II,” and “Bad Boys for Life” are available for streaming on Hulu.
