"Bad Boys: Ride or Die," directed by Adil & Bilall, is the fourth installment in the beloved buddy cop series starring Will Smith and Martin Lawrence. This time, Miami detectives Mike Lowrey and Marcus Burnett are on a mission to clear the name of their late Captain Conrad Howard, who has been posthumously accused of conspiracy. The plot kicks off with Mike's wedding interrupted by Marcus' mild heart attack, which leads to a vision of Howard urging him to continue living. This supernatural encounter propels them into a dangerous journey involving corrupt law enforcement, assassins, and a series of coded messages from beyond the grave. Their quest is supported by Captain Rita Secada, mayoral candidate Adam Lockwood, and Mike's son, Armando Aretas, as they navigate through a web of corruption to vindicate their mentor.
The film thrives on the enduring chemistry between Smith and Lawrence, whose dynamic performances inject humour and energy into the narrative. The action sequences are visually impressive, and one particularly innovative scene features a POV shot from a gun holder's perspective, adding a unique visual flair. However, the attempt to portray the aging protagonists as eternally youthful rebels feels forced, and some of the original charm is lost in favour of a more formulaic approach. Despite these shortcomings, "Bad Boys: Ride or Die" remains an entertaining ride that prioritises audience enjoyment over deeper commentary, making it a satisfying addition to the franchise for long-time fans.
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